Kimchi and Bacon Pancake, known as “Kimchijeon” in Korean, is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the tangy goodness of kimchi with the rich taste of bacon. This recipe offers a wonderful way to use leftover kimchi and is incredibly easy to prepare. Kimchijeon works wonders as a hearty snack, appetizer, or a delectable side dish in a Korean meal. As with many Korean recipes, this pancake allows for customization, and you can add other vegetables, meats, or seafood to suit your taste. Whether you’re a kimchi lover or looking to explore the diverse flavors of Korean cuisine, these pancakes are sure to impress. Pair them with Seasoned Soy Sauce or Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce for a delightful culinary experience. Let’s get started with the recipe!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups water
- 1 to 2 cups chopped Napa Cabbage Kimchi
- 3 pieces bacon, cooked, drained, and cut into strips
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for cooking
PREPARATIONS
- In a medium bowl, mix together all of the ingredients except for the vegetable oil, and let sit for about 10 minutes. The batter should have a slightly runny consistency, similar to American pancake batter, to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and coat it with a thin layer of vegetable oil.
- Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading it to create a thin layer that covers the bottom of the pan (approximately one-third of the batter should fill a medium skillet).
- Cook the pancake for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottom is set and golden brown. Flip the pancake with the help of a spatula or plate (or if you’re skilled, try flipping it in the air) and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, adding more oil if needed.
- Transfer the cooked pancake to a warmed plate and repeat the process to cook the remaining pancakes.
- To serve, you can cut the pancakes in half or quarters if desired. Serve the Kimchi and Bacon Pancakes with seasoned soy sauce or spicy dipping sauce.
YIELD
- Serves 6 as a side dish
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
- You can also make these pancakes using ready-made “Korean Pancake Batter” (buchimgae) from a Korean or Asian grocery store. Add ¾ cup water for every 1 cup of dry mix and include your preferred vegetables.
TIPS
- Customize the Kimchi and Bacon Pancakes by adding other vegetables, meats, or seafood to suit your taste.
In conclusion, Kimchi and Bacon Pancake, or Kimchijeon, is a delightful fusion of tangy kimchi and savory bacon, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This versatile recipe allows for personalization, making it a great way to use leftover kimchi or experiment with different ingredients.
As with many Korean dishes, Kimchijeon pairs exceptionally well with seasoned soy sauce or spicy dipping sauce, elevating the flavor profile of these pancakes to a whole new level. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a kimchi enthusiast, this recipe is bound to impress your taste buds.
So why wait? Give this delicious Kimchi and Bacon Pancake a try and savor the incredible flavors of Korean cuisine. Share it with your loved ones and watch as they delight in the delectable taste of this delightful pancake. Enjoy the culinary journey filled with rich flavors, and make this dish a regular addition to your recipe repertoire.