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Haemul Pajeon (Savory Korean Seafood Pancakes) Recipe

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4.3 from 69 reviews

Haemul Pajeon is a beloved Korean savory pancake featuring a crispy exterior and tender interior, packed with a flavorful mix of seafood and green onions. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, it is traditionally served hot accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce, making it a delightful treat for seafood lovers and fans of Korean cuisine alike.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

For the Batter:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels), chopped if large
  • 1 cup green onions, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, egg, and salt, whisking together until a smooth batter forms without lumps.
  2. Add the Filling: Gently fold the mixed seafood and green onions into the batter, distributing evenly throughout the mixture.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil, allowing it to heat through but not smoke.
  4. Cook the Pancake: Pour the batter with seafood and green onions into the pan, spreading it evenly to form a round pancake approximately 6-8 inches wide.
  5. First Side Cooking: Cook the pancake on medium heat until the bottom becomes golden brown and crispy, about 4 minutes. Avoid moving it to allow crispiness to develop.
  6. Flip to Cook Other Side: Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook the other side for another 4 minutes, until it is equally crispy and fully cooked through.
  7. Serve: Transfer the cooked Haemul Pajeon to a serving plate and serve immediately, ideally with a soy-based dipping sauce seasoned with vinegar and chili flakes for enhanced flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed frozen seafood for the best texture and taste.
  • Maintain medium heat throughout cooking to ensure the pancake cooks evenly and crisps without burning.
  • Feel free to customize by adding kimchi or other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free blend.
  • The pancake is best served hot to enjoy its crispy texture; reheat briefly in a pan if served later.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer / Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Diet: Pescatarian