Introduction
Haemul Pajeon is a popular Korean dish that is made with a savory pancake batter, mixed with various seafood and scallions, and fried until crispy. It is a favorite snack and appetizer in Korea and can also be enjoyed as a light meal. In this article, we will show you how to make Haemul Pajeon at home.
History of Haemul Pajeon
Haemul Pajeon has a long history in Korean cuisine and is believed to have originated in the coastal regions of Korea. It was originally a food for fishermen who would use whatever seafood they had caught in their pancake batter. Today, Haemul Pajeon is enjoyed by people of all ages and is a staple in Korean restaurants and street food vendors.
Ingredients
To make Haemul Pajeon, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 pound mixed seafood (such as squid, shrimp, and oysters), cleaned and chopped
- 1/2 cup scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Preparation
Before you begin making the Haemul Pajeon, you will need to prepare the batter and the seafood. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, egg, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Add the chopped seafood and scallions to the batter and stir to combine.
Cooking Instructions
To fry the Haemul Pajeon, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Pour the batter into the skillet and spread it out evenly to form a pancake. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the pancake is golden brown and crispy. Flip the pancake over carefully using a spatula and cook the other side until crispy as well.
To serve the Haemul Pajeon, cut it into bite-sized pieces and serve it hot with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and gochujang (Korean chili paste).
Serving Suggestions
Haemul Pajeon is typically served as a snack or an appetizer, but it can also be served as a light meal with a bowl of rice and other Korean side dishes. It pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of chilled Korean rice wine (makgeolli). You can garnish the Haemul Pajeon with additional sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Haemul Pajeon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a snack, an appetizer, or a light meal, Haemul Pajeon is a great choice. The seafood and scallions add a burst of flavor to the savory pancake batter, and the crispy texture is irresistible. Try making this recipe at home and enjoy the delicious taste of Korean cooking!