Yukjeon (Korean Pan-Fried Beef Slices)
Easy and Simple Yukjeon Recipe for a Delicious Korean Beef Pancake
Yukjeon is one of the easiest Korean pancakes to make, featuring high-quality beef that results in a wonderfully chewy and tender texture. It’s an indispensable dish for festive occasions and holidays in Korea. Beyond special events, it’s also a perfect nutritious side dish for children or a delightful appetizer for adults to enjoy with drinks.
Ingredients- Beef (Rump steak or lean cuts, thinly sliced like for shabu-shabu)
- 2 Eggs
- 3-4 Tbsp All-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the main ingredient for Yukjeon: the beef. Using a lean cut like rump steak (부채살) will ensure a more tender texture. If rump steak isn’t available, other lean cuts or thinly sliced beef meant for shabu-shabu are also good options. Slice the beef to about 0.5 cm thickness.
Step 2
Lightly season both sides of the sliced beef with salt and pepper. Then, coat each slice evenly with all-purpose flour. Applying a thin layer of flour helps the egg batter adhere better and prevents the juices from escaping during cooking.
Step 3
In a wide bowl, crack two eggs and whisk them thoroughly with a fork or whisk until smooth. Dip each floured beef slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess egg batter.
Step 4
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a generous amount of cooking oil. Carefully place the egg-coated beef slices into the hot pan and fry them until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 1-2 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the beef. It’s important to slice the beef to a moderate thickness; too thick and it might not cook through, while too thin can make it difficult to handle. You can adjust the size to your preference, but aim for pieces that are easy to manage.
Step 5
And there you have it – simple Yukjeon! This dish is wonderfully quick and easy to make, offering a delightful chewy and tender texture that surpasses many other types of Korean pancakes. Enjoy them while they are warm for the best experience.
Step 6
To elevate your Yukjeon experience, consider preparing a dipping sauce. A classic soy sauce-based sauce with finely chopped green chili peppers (like Cheongyang chili) is a popular choice. Alternatively, a simple mayonnaise-based sauce can be great for children or those who prefer a milder flavor. Serve with your favorite sauce according to your preference.
