Crispy and Spicy Aged Kimchi Pancake: A Perfect Match with Freshly Cooked Rice!
Aged Kimchi Pancake
While I try to limit my intake of flour, today is one of those days when I’m craving a truly delicious kimchi pancake! I’ve decided to make one using well-fermented aged kimchi, resulting in a pancake that’s wonderfully crispy on the outside and delightfully savory on the inside. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of freshly steamed rice or a refreshing glass of makgeolli. Even if it’s not a special occasion, this aged kimchi pancake will be a fantastic treat for those times when your appetite needs a boost. Let’s get started with this recipe!
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole head of well-fermented aged kimchi (approx. 1kg)
- 5 cups of pancake mix or all-purpose flour (approx. 500g)
- Generous amount of cooking oil or olive oil
- Pinch of salt (adjust based on kimchi’s saltiness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Today, I’m introducing you to ‘Aged Kimchi Pancake,’ the ultimate dish for when your appetite calls for something satisfying. The combination of deeply fermented kimchi’s rich flavor and its wonderfully crispy-yet-tender texture is simply irresistible!
Step 2
First, let’s prepare the pancake batter. In a bowl, combine 5 cups of pancake mix or all-purpose flour. Add a tiny pinch of salt, being mindful of the kimchi’s natural saltiness. Gradually add water while mixing, ensuring there are no lumps, until you achieve a smooth batter. Aim for a consistency slightly thicker than typical pancake batter. Letting the batter rest beforehand allows the flour to absorb moisture, resulting in a more delicious pancake.
Step 3
Next, we prepare the star ingredient: aged kimchi. Make sure you have one whole head of properly fermented kimchi from your kimchi refrigerator. The more kimchi you use, the richer and more flavorful your pancake will be.
Step 4
We’ll now chop the aged kimchi into bite-sized pieces. Remove any tough core parts or overly large leaves. Lightly squeeze out excess kimchi juice, then use scissors to finely chop the kimchi into pieces about 1-2 cm in length. Cutting it uniformly will make it easier to cook evenly and enhance the texture.
Step 5
Now, it’s time to combine the chopped aged kimchi with the prepared batter. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the kimchi is evenly coated with the batter. Having a good ratio of kimchi to batter is key to achieving that signature kimchi pancake flavor and texture.
Step 6
For an even more flavorful and chewier kimchi pancake, let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes after mixing. This allows the kimchi and batter to meld together, developing a deeper taste.
Step 7
Finally, let’s check and adjust the seasoning. If the aged kimchi is already sufficiently salty, you might not need any extra salt. However, if it tastes a bit bland, add a tiny bit more salt at this stage. It’s important to taste a small portion of the batter to ensure the seasoning is just right.
Step 8
Now, let’s start cooking the kimchi pancake! Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a generous amount of cooking oil or olive oil. Ample oil is crucial for preventing the pancake from burning and achieving a perfectly crispy finish.
Step 9
Pour one ladleful of the kimchi batter onto the heated pan. Using a spatula or ladle, spread it out as thinly and widely as possible. Spreading it thinly ensures it cooks through evenly and becomes wonderfully crispy. If the batter is too thick, the pancake might be undercooked or soggy.
Step 10
Once one side is golden brown and crispy, carefully flip the pancake using a spatula or tongs. Cook the other side until it’s also golden brown and crisp. The pancake is ready when the edges turn a deep brown and appear crunchy.
Step 11
Voila! Your appetizing aged kimchi pancake is ready. It boasts a golden-brown, crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender with the satisfying crunch and spicy kick of the aged kimchi. It looks absolutely delicious!
Step 12
This delicious aged kimchi pancake is best when made in a generous batch so you can enjoy it over time. While it’s most delightful served hot, any leftovers can be gently reheated. Make your evening meal special with this hearty and flavorful aged kimchi pancake tonight!
