Hi, everybody! Spring has arrived, and with it comes the perfect weather for spending time outdoors. Today, I want to share a delightful recipe that captures the essence of spring – Yachaejeon, a Korean vegetable pancake.
Highlights:
- Welcome spring with a tasty Korean veggie pancake, celebrating the season’s freshness.
- Raid your fridge for any veggies – leeks, mushrooms, and more – to create a colorful pancake mix.
- Cook with extra oil for a crispy outside and a soft, flavorful inside.
- Make a quick soy-based sauce for an added burst of flavor.
- Enjoy yachaejeon as a simple, festive treat at home, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings on rainy days.
Additional Recipes Resources:
To make things even more exciting, I’ll be using some leftover vegetables I found in my refrigerator. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of yachaejeon!
How to make Korean Vegetable Pancake
To make Korean Vegetable Pancake (Yachaejeon), mix leeks, green onions, zucchini, sweet potato, onion, chili pepper, and mushrooms. Combine with a batter of flour, salt, and water, then cook in a well-oiled skillet until crispy. Serve with a soy-based dipping sauce for a delightful and crunchy dish.
Korean Vegetable Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
- Leek
- Green onion
- Sweet potato or carrot
- Onion
- Zucchini
- Green chili pepper or jalapeno
- Mushroom (shiitake, white, or portobello)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup water
- Vegetable oil
Equipment
- 12-inch Non-stick Skillet
- Knife
- Bowl for mixing batter
- Spatula
- Measuring cup
- Cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
Chop and Slice
Cut the green onions into one-inch pieces, slice the leek, and julienne the zucchini. Thinly slice the jalapeno for a spicy kick. Dice the onion, and peel and slice the sweet potato into matchsticks. Slice the mushrooms thinly.
Measure
Aim for around 2½ cups of mixed vegetables. Adjust the quantities according to your preference, but remember that various veggies add depth to the flavor.
Prepare the Batter
Mix 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 cup of water in a bowl. The goal is a slightly thin batter to showcase the abundance of vegetables.
Step 2: Cooking
Heat the Skillet
Use a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add about two tablespoons of vegetable oil, ensuring a generous amount for a crispy texture.
Vegetable Artistry
Spread the vegetable mix evenly in the skillet, creating a thin pancake. Reduce heat to medium.
Add Mushrooms: After a minute, add the sliced mushrooms. The bottom should start developing a golden crust.
Flip for Celebration
Once the bottom is set, flip the pancake to celebrate the arrival of spring. Turn up the heat, add another tablespoon of oil, and cook for three more minutes.
Step 3: Dipping Sauce
While your yachaejeon is cooking, whip up a quick dipping sauce:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons vinegar
- Optional: hot pepper flakes
- Sesame seeds
Mix these together for a tangy and spicy accompaniment.
Tasting
The moment of truth! The yachaejeon is ready to be savored.
The outside is wonderfully crunchy, while the inside remains delightfully soft. The medley of vegetables provides a variety of textures and flavors that burst in your mouth. Don't forget the dipping sauce—it adds an extra layer of umami.
Pair your yachaejeon with some kimchi for the perfect Korean culinary experience. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.
Conclusion
In Korea, yachaejeon is often served as a snack, but why not enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner? The process of making this pancake is not only a culinary delight but also a sensory experience that fills your home with the aroma of delicious, home-cooked food.
So, gather your favorite vegetables, embrace the spirit of spring, and treat yourself to the delightful world of yachaejeon. Until next time, happy cooking, and see you soon!
Hello! I’m Paula Deen, a mother who loves to create memories in the kitchen. As a kitchen enthusiast, I love to do experiment with different kitchenware for daily recipes. This is my blog, where I’ll share my experience, knowledge, and reviews on various kitchenware and appliances.