Recipe Haemul Pajeon

Haemul Pajeon is a savory Korean pancake made with a variety of seafood and green onions, also known as scallions. It is a popular dish in Korea, often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. The crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior, combined with the freshness of seafood and the aroma of green onions, make Haemul Pajeon a delightful treat.

Ingredients

To prepare Haemul Pajeon, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pancake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 bunch of green onions (scallions), cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup squid, cleaned and cut into rings
• 1/2 cup clams or mussels, cleaned
• 1/2 cup fish fillet, cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 green onion, finely chopped

Preparation and Instructions

Making the Batter:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, water, egg, and salt. Mix well until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
2. Add the cut green onions, shrimp, squid, clams or mussels, and fish fillet into the batter. Stir gently to coat the seafood and green onions evenly with the batter.

Cooking the Pancake:

1. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, pour half of the batter mixture into the skillet, spreading it out evenly to form a thin pancake.
3. Cook the pancake for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy. Press down with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
4. Remove the pancake from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining batter and oil.

Making the Dipping Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped green onion.
2. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well mixed.

Tips

• Consistency of the Batter: The batter should be slightly thick but pourable. If it is too thick, add a little more water. If it is too thin, add a bit more flour.
• Even Cooking: To ensure the pancake cooks evenly, press it down gently with a spatula while cooking. This helps the seafood and green onions to cook thoroughly.
• Serving: Haemul Pajeon is best served hot, right off the skillet. Serve it with the dipping sauce on the side for an added burst of flavor.

Variations

• Vegetarian Pajeon: Omit the seafood and add a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Kimchi Pajeon: Add chopped kimchi to the batter for a spicy and tangy twist.
• Cheese Pajeon: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of the pancake before flipping it for a gooey, cheesy version.

Calorie Information

The calorie content of Haemul Pajeon can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. On average, one serving of Haemul Pajeon (about one pancake) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams

Conclusion

Haemul Pajeon is a versatile and delicious Korean seafood pancake that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its combination of crispy texture, flavorful seafood, and aromatic green onions makes it a favorite among Korean dishes. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, Haemul Pajeon is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire, perfect for any meal or occasion. Try out the variations to suit your taste preferences and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!