Savory Pancakes (Jeon)
Korean-style savory pancakes with various fillings like kimchi or seafood, often included as part of the family meal.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Han Oak Restaurant
Pancakes, in various forms, have existed in Korean cuisine for centuries. Jeon's origins likely stem from simple preparations using readily available grains and vegetables. Over time, jeon evolved to incorporate more diverse ingredients and techniques, reflecting regional specialties and culinary innovations. Court cuisine and Buddhist temple food also influenced its development.
Jeon holds a significant place in Korean cuisine and culture, often associated with celebratory occasions, family gatherings, and rainy days.
Celebratory Food
Jeon is commonly prepared for holidays like Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) and Lunar New Year, where it's a traditional food offered to ancestors and shared among family members.
Rainy Day Comfort Food
The sound of rain is often associated with cooking and enjoying jeon, creating a cozy and comforting atmosphere. The sizzling sound of the pancake frying in the pan is said to mimic the sound of rain.
Social Gathering Food
Jeon is a popular dish to share during social gatherings and parties. Its versatility allows for a wide variety of fillings to cater to different tastes and preferences.
Family Meal
Jeon is a regular side dish during family meals. It is often prepared as a side dish to go along with rice and other Korean dishes. It is a quick and easy dish to prepare.
Jeon offers a diverse range of flavors, primarily savory with a balance of umami, spice, and subtle sweetness depending on the ingredients used. The texture is characterized by a crispy exterior and a soft, slightly chewy interior.
The fundamental flavor base comes from the pancake batter itself, typically a mix of wheat flour (or sometimes rice flour), eggs, and water. The addition of various ingredients creates a wide spectrum of tastes. Kimchi jeon (Kimchijeon) offers a spicy, fermented, and tangy flavor. Seafood jeon (Haemul Pajeon) features the briny taste of seafood like shrimp, squid, and clams, often paired with the mild onion flavor of scallions (pa). Vegetable jeon incorporates the earthy and fresh flavors of ingredients like zucchini, carrots, and peppers. The dipping sauce, usually a soy sauce-based mixture with vinegar, sesame oil, and sometimes chili flakes, adds another layer of umami, acidity, and heat.
Batter Consistency
The batter should be thin enough to spread easily in the pan but not too thin that it becomes watery. Experiment with the flour-to-water ratio to find the ideal consistency.
Even Cooking
Use medium heat to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Press down on the jeon with a spatula to ensure the ingredients adhere properly.
Crispy Edges
For crispy edges, use enough oil in the pan and flip the jeon only once it is golden brown and releases easily from the pan.
Ingredient Preparation
Make sure to cut ingredients into similar sizes for uniform cooking and even distribution in the pancake. Vegetables should be relatively dry to avoid making the batter too watery.
Dipping Sauce
Don't underestimate the dipping sauce! Adjust the proportions of soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes to suit your personal taste. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can also add a refreshing touch.
Explore additional Savory Pancake dishes and restaurants
Explore Savory PancakeDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Portland.
Explore PortlandLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of United States.
Explore United States