Kimchi Jeon: A Classic Korean Snack

Kimchi Jeon, or kimchi pancakes, is a beloved Korean dish that perfectly blends the bold, tangy flavors of fermented kimchi with the comforting, crispy texture of a pancake. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, Kimchi Jeon can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you’re using aged kimchi for a more robust flavor or adding extra ingredients like squid or mushrooms, this dish never disappoints. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Why Make Kimchi Jeon?

Kimchi Jeon showcases the versatility of kimchi, transforming it into a deliciously savory dish that pairs well with almost anything. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover kimchi. If you’re new to kimchi, learn more about this incredible ferment and its variations on our Kimchi Workshop page.

Ingredients for 2-4 Servings

Pancakes:

275g Chinese leaf kimchi (use both leaves and juice)
90g finely chopped leek
225g plain flour
2 eggs
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Cooking oil for frying

Dipping Sauce:

4 tablespoons Japanese or Korean soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 dash cider vinegar
Finely shredded spring onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Pancake Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the kimchi (with its juices), chopped leek, plain flour, eggs, and sesame oil. Mix well until you have a thick, cohesive batter. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little water or more kimchi juice.
Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a thin layer of cooking oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Pour in a portion of the batter, spreading it out evenly to form a pancake. You can make smaller individual pancakes or one large pancake, depending on your preference.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the pancakes are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and cider vinegar. Garnish with finely shredded spring onions if desired.
Serve:
- Slice the pancakes into wedges if making a large one, or serve individual pancakes whole. Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tips for Success

Experiment with Add-Ins: Enhance your Kimchi Jeon by adding squid, shrimp, mushrooms, or even cheese to the batter for a fun twist.
Use Aged Kimchi: Older, well-fermented kimchi adds a deeper, tangier flavor to your pancakes. If your kimchi is fresh, consider letting it ferment a bit longer for optimal taste.
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the plain flour for a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary preferences.

Perfect for Sharing

Kimchi Jeon is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for gatherings or as a comforting treat for yourself. For more recipes and fermentation tips, sign up for our newsletter here. Join the fermentation journey and bring bold flavors into your kitchen!