Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, then you’ve come to the right place! This Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake) is one of my all-time favorites. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with the fresh flavor of green onions. Plus, it only takes 15 minutes to whip up—what more could you ask for?

This delightful pancake serves wonderfully as an appetizer or side dish. I love how it brings everyone together around the table, sharing slices dipped in a savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pajeon! Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty treat.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. It fits into any occasion.
• Deliciously crispy: The combination of green onions and a crispy exterior makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Easy 15-min. Pajeon:

• 5 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 cup green onions (packed)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup potato starch (or cornstarch; do not sub with rice flour or tapioca starch)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp chicken bouillon powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 cup water (very cold)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (regular or all-purpose kind)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp green onion (finely chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about pajeon is its flexibility! You can easily customize this recipe according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add vegetables: Toss in some grated carrots or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
• Include protein: Mix in cooked shrimp or chicken pieces for a heartier pancake.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the batter.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in pancakes.

How to Make Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake)

Step 1: Prepare the Green Onions

Start by washing the green onions thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this step is crucial because moisture can make your pancake soggy. Trim off the roots and split the onions down the middle so that the thick white part is halved. Chop them into 1.5-inch long pieces and toss them into a large bowl.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

Now, add the remaining batter ingredients right on top of those lovely green onions in your bowl. Gently mix everything together until it’s combined but be careful not to over-mix! A few lumps are perfectly fine here; they help keep your pancake light and fluffy.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Grab a large non-stick pan (about 11 to 12 inches wide) and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, pour in 2.5 tablespoons of vegetable oil or any neutral oil you prefer. This oil is key because it helps achieve that wonderful crispy texture!

Step 4: Add Green Onions

When the oil is shimmering, use tongs to add only the green onions into the pan. Spread them evenly across the surface—this will create a delicious base for your pancake! Then scrape out any leftover batter from your bowl with a spatula and pour it over those beautiful green onions, filling in any gaps.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

Reduce the heat to medium and let your pancake fry away until it turns golden brown on one side—about three minutes should do it! Keep an eye out for small bubbles forming all over; this means it’s cooking nicely.

Step 6: Flip It Over

Once you see that gorgeous golden crust and feel confident that it’s solidified, flip your pancake using a large spatula. Pour some remaining oil along the edges of the pan to keep things nice and crispy while you cook the other side.

Step 7: Cook Until Crispy

Fry this side until it’s also golden brown—another two to three minutes should suffice! Don’t forget to press down gently with your spatula now and then; this helps create that satisfying crunch we all love.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Carefully transfer your pancake onto a cutting board and slice it into small squares or wedges using a sharp knife. Arrange them neatly on a serving plate—everyone will want some!

Step 9: Make Your Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and finely chopped green onion for an easy dipping sauce. This adds an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible when paired with your pajeon!

Enjoy this Easy 15-min. Pajeon fresh off the pan, sharing bites with loved ones while relishing every crunchy morsel!

Pro Tips for Making Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake)

Making pajeon is a delightful experience, and these simple tips will help you achieve the perfect crispy texture every time!

• Use very cold water: Cold water helps create a light and airy batter, resulting in a beautifully crispy pancake that’s hard to resist.
• Don’t overmix the batter: A gentle mix ensures that the pancake remains tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, which is not what we want in our pajeon!
• Preheat your pan properly: Ensuring your pan is hot enough before adding the batter helps achieve that golden crust. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the pancake may turn out soggy.
• Press down while cooking: Gently pressing down on the pancake with a spatula while it cooks enhances its crispiness by ensuring even contact with the pan.
• Adjust oil as needed: Don’t be afraid to add a little more oil if you notice your pancake starting to stick. A bit of extra oil will keep things from getting stuck and add to that delicious crunch.

How to Serve Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake)

Serving pajeon can be just as fun as making it! Whether you’re presenting it for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering, here are some creative ideas to elevate this dish.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also brings a nutty flavor that complements the scallions beautifully.
• Chopped cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the plate and add a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish pairs excellently with pajeon. Its spicy and tangy flavors contrast beautifully with the savory pancakes.
• Pickled radish: Sweet and crunchy pickled radish adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of pajeon.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy option that adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
• Rice or quinoa: Serving pajeon with a side of rice or quinoa makes it more filling while providing additional textures and flavors.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have your table looking beautiful and inviting—ready for everyone to dive into this delicious Easy 15-min. Pajeon! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake) is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them later as a tasty snack or side dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pajeon to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the pajeon cool entirely before freezing.
• Wrap each pajeon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
• Alternatively, you can use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave can be used, but it may result in a softer pancake—heat in short intervals, about 30 seconds at a time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe.

How do I make Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake) gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure that the chicken bouillon powder is also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious flavors with dietary considerations.

Can I add other ingredients to my Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake)?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even cooked shrimp if desired. Just adjust the amount of batter accordingly so it holds together well!

What should I serve with Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake)?

These pancakes pair wonderfully with dipping sauces made from soy sauce and rice vinegar mixed with sesame oil and chopped green onions. They also complement other Korean dishes beautifully!

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace chicken bouillon powder with vegetable bouillon and skip any animal-derived products in the dipping sauce. The taste will still be delightful!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy 15-min. Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake) as much as I do! It’s such a fun and delicious way to bring a taste of Korea into your kitchen without too much hassle. Whether you’re having it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, I’m sure it will be a hit at your table. Enjoy every crispy bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!