Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe

If you have yet to experience the irresistible charm of Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe, you’re in for a real treat. These crispy-edged, tender pancakes pack a delicious medley of fresh seafood and vibrant green onions, all held together by a light, savory batter. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that feel both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re making this for a cozy night in or to impress friends, this recipe is a joyful dive into Korean cuisine that’s surprisingly simple to master.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe lies in its beautifully simple and fresh ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building the unique crispy yet tender texture and a flavor profile that’s rich and vibrant.

• 1 cup plain flour: The base of the batter, providing structure and a light crispiness when cooked just right.
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch: This helps give the pancake a delicate crunch and slightly airy texture.
• 1 1/8 tsp fine salt: Balances the flavors perfectly and enhances the seafood’s natural taste.
• 1 1/8 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
• 1 1/8 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic with gentle sweetness and earthiness.
• 1 cup water (icy cold or quality sparkling water): Keeps the batter light and fluffy, sparkling water especially gives extra crispness.
• 12 green onion tops (green part): Fresh, aromatic, and vibrant; they lend a bright flavor and lovely visual appeal.
• 100 g calamari (cleaned and cut): Tender little pieces that add a delightful seafood brininess.
• 100 g prawns (cleaned and cut): Juicy bits of sweetness that pair brilliantly with the crispy pancake.
• Ground black pepper: A few sprinkles to gently marinate the seafood and add warmth.
• 1 egg (beaten): Helps bind ingredients and gives a gorgeous golden finish when drizzled on top.
• 1 red chili (optional): For a touch of heat and a pop of color that brightens the dish.
• 6 Tbsp cooking oil (such as rice bran oil): Essential for achieving that perfect crispy exterior without a heavy feel.

How to Make Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

Start by mixing the plain flour, cornstarch, fine salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and icy cold water in a medium bowl. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth, runny batter—this balance is key for the light texture. Pour the batter into a measuring jug for easier handling in the pan later on.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Add Oil

Place about 3 tablespoons of cooking oil on a moderately heated frying pan and spread it evenly. Turn the heat to high to ensure the pan and oil heat up properly. This step is crucial because the right temperature makes your pancake crispy instead of soggy. Be mindful to watch the oil carefully as it heats.

Step 3: Test Oil Readiness and Pour the Batter

Drop a tiny bit of batter into the hot oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. Lower the heat slightly to medium-high and pour just under half a cup of batter into the pan, spreading it evenly and thinly for that delicate pancake base.

Step 4: Add Green Onions and Batter

Arrange 6 of the green onion tops in parallel lines across the batter. Add a little more batter over and between the green onions to fill in gaps, ensuring the pancake holds together nicely without being too thick. Reduce the heat to medium to allow gentle cooking.

Step 5: Add Seafood and Optional Chili

Evenly scatter pieces of calamari, prawns, and, if you like a kick, thinly sliced red chili over the green onions. This adds layers of flavor and texture that make every bite exciting and fresh.

Step 6: Drizzle Egg and Cook Gently

Drizzle half of the beaten egg over the assembled pancake to bind everything and add a glossy finish as it cooks. Gently move the pancake around the pan occasionally to keep it from sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Flip the Pancake

When the top starts to partially set, roughly after 4 minutes, flip the pancake carefully with a spatula. If it sticks, add a little more cooking oil around the edges. Press down lightly on the pancake to create a tempting sizzle and maintain that sought-after crispiness. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Remove it from heat and transfer to a plate.

Step 8: Repeat for the Second Pancake

Repeat the previous steps for the remaining batter and seafood. This makes two perfectly cooked pancakes, ideal for sharing or savoring all to yourself.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut the pancakes into bite-sized pieces and serve them hot with your favorite Korean pancake dipping sauce. The combination of crispy, tender, and savory flavors will surely impress.

How to Serve Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe

Garnishes

Freshness elevates this dish, so finish your Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe with a sprinkling of finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. A few thin slices of chili add color and a zingy heat that can be dialed up or down according to your taste.

Side Dishes

These pancakes pair beautifully with icy cold kimchi, pickled radish, or a simple bowl of steamed rice to balance out the rich seafood flavor. You can also serve a bowl of hot, spicy dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, and chopped chili to complement the crispy texture perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe into an interactive meal? Serve the sliced pancakes family-style alongside an assortment of dipping sauces—like a spicy soy dressing or a tangy sesame-ginger blend—and let everyone customize their own bites. Presenting it with vibrant side salads or even a light Korean-inspired slaw adds layers both visually and in flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pancakes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain their crispiness, place parchment paper between each layer so they don’t stick together.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these pancakes later, freezing works well. Arrange individual pancakes on a baking sheet to freeze solid before stacking and storing in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to a month without losing texture or flavor.

Reheating

For reheating, avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crispy edges intact. Instead, warm them gently in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until heated through and crisp on both sides, just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use other seafood besides calamari and prawns?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with squid, mussels, or even chopped scallops. Just make sure any seafood you use is fresh and cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

Is sparkling water necessary for the batter?

It isn’t necessary, but using sparkling water can add extra lightness and crispiness to the pancake’s texture. If you don’t have sparkling water handy, icy cold still water works just fine too.

How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the pan?

Use a well-seasoned or non-stick pan and plenty of oil. Make sure the oil is hot before pouring the batter. Also, avoid moving the pancake too soon; let it form a good crust before flipping.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the seafood and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. The green onion and batter will still create a tasty, satisfying pancake.

What dipping sauce pairs best with Haemul Pajeon?

A classic Korean dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chili flakes pairs beautifully. It adds a tangy, savory contrast that complements the crispy pancakes perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the warmth and flavor of Korean Seafood and Green Onion Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon) Recipe. It’s a dish that brings people together, ignites the senses, and satisfies cravings like few others. If you’ve been looking for a recipe that’s both approachable and deeply rewarding, this is it. Grab your ingredients, summon your skillet, and dive into this lovingly crafted Korean classic—you’ll be so glad you did!

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