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A crispy and golden Easy 15-min. Korean Scallion Pancake (Pajeon) served on a rustic plate with a side of savory soy dipping sauce.

Ultimate Easy 15-Minute Korean Scallion Pancake (Pajeon)

Master the art of the perfect crispy Korean scallion pancake with this quick and simple recipe. By using ice-cold water and a hot skillet, you can achieve a restaurant-quality, golden-brown Pajeon in just 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bunch fresh scallions, washed and cut into 3-inch long pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup ice-cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2-3 tablespoons neutral oil vegetable or canola
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili optional

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Non-stick skillet (10-12 inch)
  • Spatula
  • Kitchen shears or sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small bowl (for dipping sauce)

Method
 

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Slowly pour in the ice-cold water, whisking gently until just combined; it is okay if a few small lumps remain. Do not overmix.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add two tablespoons of oil.
  4. Arrange the scallions in the pan in an even layer to create a bed.
  5. Pour the batter evenly over the scallions, ensuring it seeps into the gaps between the green onions.
  6. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
  7. Flip carefully using a spatula, press down firmly to ensure even cooking, and fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until the second side is golden.
  8. While the pancake cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
  9. Remove the pancake from the pan, slice into squares or strips using kitchen shears, and serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra texture, you can add thinly sliced onions, carrots, or shrimp to the batter. Ensure the pan is truly hot before adding the batter to achieve the signature crispy bubbles. If you have leftovers, reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat rather than a microwave to maintain as much crispiness as possible.