Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Haemul Pajeon (Savory Korean Seafood Pancakes) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 53 reviews

Haemul Pajeon is a popular Korean savory pancake loaded with an assortment of fresh seafood and green onions. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, this flavorful dish is a beloved comfort food often enjoyed with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, it combines a simple batter with succulent shrimp, squid, and mussels to create a satisfying, authentic Korean treat.

  • 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 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, squid, mussels), chopped as needed
  • 1 cup green onions, cut into 2-3 inch strips
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, egg, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter with a consistency slightly thinner than pancake batter.
  2. Add Seafood and Green Onions: Gently fold in the mixed seafood and green onion strips into the batter, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed without overmixing.
  3. Heat the Pan and Oil: Place a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
  4. Cook the Pancake (First Side): Pour the batter with seafood and green onions into the skillet and spread it evenly into a round pancake about 8 inches in diameter. Cook for approximately 4 minutes until the edges start to crisp and the bottom turns golden brown.
  5. Flip and Cook (Second Side): Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook the other side for another 4 minutes until it is crispy and golden brown. Make sure the seafood is fully cooked and the pancake is cooked through.
  6. Serve Hot: Transfer the haemul pajeon to a serving plate and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce, such as a soy sauce and vinegar mixture.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed frozen seafood for best flavor and texture.
  • Cooking over medium heat ensures an evenly crispy texture without burning the pancake.
  • Adjust the batter thickness by adding a little more water if too thick, or flour if too thin.
  • Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes for authentic taste.
  • This dish is best enjoyed immediately to maintain crispiness.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer / Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Diet: Pescatarian