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Korean Pancakes - Pajun — Fresh homemade recipe photo

Korean Pancakes - Pajun

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I discovered pajun during a rainy Tuesday night when I had half an onion and some zucchini left in the crisper drawer. Instead of ordering takeout, I whisked together flour, water, and eggs, slicing the veggies thinly to maximize surface area for that crucial crispy edge. It became an instant staple because it feels like a treat but comes together faster than boiling pasta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Batter & Vegetables
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup ice-cold water plus more if needed
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 small zucchini halved lengthwise and sliced into thin half-moons (about 1 cup)
  • 1/2 cup green onions chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for dredging the vegetables
  • Vegetable oil or neutral oil for frying
Dipping Sauce (Soy-Vinegar Dip)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp sugar or honey
  • 1 clove garlic minced finely
  • Sesame seeds for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Place your sliced zucchini and chopped green onions in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of flour over them and toss gently until every piece is lightly coated. This coating helps create crispy edges when fried.
  2. Mix the batter: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the 1 cup flour, salt, eggs, and ice-cold water. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds to remove lumps. The batter should be thin, similar to heavy cream or buttermilk. If it looks too thick (like pancake batter), add another tablespoon of cold water.
  3. Rest the batter: Let the batter sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, which is key to a tender texture rather than a chewy one.
  4. Combine: After resting, stir the vegetable mixture into the batter. The vegetables will settle; give it a gentle fold to distribute them evenly. Do not overmix once combined.
  5. Heat the pan: Place a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add about 1–2 tablespoons of oil, swirling to coat the bottom. Wait until the oil shimmers but doesn't smoke.
  6. Fry the pancakes: Pour in about half of the batter (enough to create a 6–8 inch circle). Do not spread it; let it pool naturally. Cook for 3–4 minutes without moving it, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Flip: Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula. It should release easily if the bottom is set. Cook on the second side for another 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Serve immediately: Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with the prepared dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 93mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 1mg

Notes

The secret isn't fancy ingredients; it's letting the batter rest so the flour hydrates fully. This prevents the pancakes from turning gummy in the middle while the outside burns. I serve them hot with a simple soy-vinegar dip, often alongside kimchi fried rice or just as a snack with beer on weekends.

Tips & Storage

Substitutions: You can swap zucchini for scallions only (daechu-pajun) or add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even leftover cooked meat like bulgogi. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage: Leftover pancakes keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.

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