There’s something almost magical about whipping up a batch of Korean Kimchi Pancakes. It’s like the perfect blend of crunchy, spicy, and savory all wrapped up in one delicious bite. And don’t even get me started on that spicy dipping sauce—pure bliss!
Steps
- Combine all the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl and mix thoroughly with a fork, then set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix the chopped green onions (reserving some for garnish), Korean pancake mix, chopped kimchi, and kimchi juice or Korean chili paste.
- Gradually add water to the mixture, a quarter cup at a time, stirring until the batter reaches the consistency of traditional pancake batter.
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan. Once hot, pour in the kimchi pancake batter.
- Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook the other side until done.
- Remove the pancake from the pan and garnish with sesame seeds, additional green onions, and dried seaweed strips.
- Serve the pancakes hot alongside the prepared dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 3-4 green onions, chopped diagonally (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped (use plant-based for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup Korean pancake mix
- 2-3 tablespoons kimchi juice and/or Korean chili paste
- Approximately 1 cup water (added 1/4 cup at a time)
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds
- Dried seaweed, cut into 2-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
FAQ
- Is kimchi suitable for vegans?
- The suitability of kimchi for vegans depends on the brand. Traditional kimchi typically contains fish sauce, but there are brands that offer vegan options. Always check the ingredient list to ensure there are no animal products. Alternatively, you can make your own vegan kimchi by omitting any animal-derived ingredients.
- What are the health benefits of kimchi?
- Kimchi is beneficial for gut health due to its probiotic content, which aids digestion. It is also associated with reducing inflammation, supporting weight loss, enhancing the immune system, and promoting heart health.
- How can you tell if kimchi has spoiled?
- Kimchi can go bad, especially if it has been stored for an extended period. If it smells sour with a strong alcohol scent, similar to over-fermented wine, it is likely spoiled and should be discarded.
- Can this kimchi pancake recipe be made vegan?
- Yes, the kimchi pancake recipe can be made vegan by using a plant-based kimchi that does not contain fish sauce or other animal products. The rest of the ingredients in the recipe are vegan-friendly.
- What is the consistency of the kimchi pancake batter supposed to be?
- The batter for kimchi pancakes should have a similar consistency to regular pancake batter. Add water gradually, a quarter cup at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency for cooking.
Tips
- Ensure the consistency of your pancake batter is similar to traditional pancake mix by adding water gradually, about 1/4 cup at a time, until you achieve the desired thickness.
- For a vegan option, choose a plant-based kimchi, which can often be found without fish sauce. Check the label or try making it at home, omitting any animal products.
- Cook the pancakes over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, similar to regular pancakes, to ensure they are cooked evenly and have a nice, crispy texture.
- Garnish the pancakes with sesame seeds, additional green onion, and dried seaweed strips for enhanced flavor and presentation before serving with the dipping sauce.
Equipment
- Korean Pancake Mix
- Korean Chili Paste
- Kimchi (plant-based if desired)
- Sesame Seeds (roasted)
- Dried Seaweed