Han Ji-hye’s Brain-Boosting Broccoli Pancake (Jeon): Easy & Delicious, No Flour!
Han Ji-hye’s ‘Brain Food’ Broccoli Pancake from ‘Convenience Store Restaurant’ (Pyeonstorang)
Learn how to make a healthy and delicious broccoli pancake (jeon) that’s great for brain health, as featured in the TV show ‘Convenience Store Restaurant’ by actress Han Ji-hye. This recipe is flourless and easy for anyone to follow.
Preparing the Broccoli- 1 head of fresh broccoli
- Clean rice water (water used to rinse rice)
- A little bit of vinegar (approx. 1 Tbsp)
Flourless Broccoli Pancake Batter- 1 head worth of prepared broccoli florets and stems
- 60g cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, shredded)
- Pinch of salt for seasoning
- Pinch of pepper for flavor enhancement
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic (adjust to taste)
- A little cooking oil for pan-frying
- 1 head worth of prepared broccoli florets and stems
- 60g cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, shredded)
- Pinch of salt for seasoning
- Pinch of pepper for flavor enhancement
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic (adjust to taste)
- A little cooking oil for pan-frying
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
To wash the broccoli thoroughly, turn it upside down under running water. This allows the water to flow into the florets and wash away any hidden dirt or debris.
Step 2
In a bowl, combine the rice water and a few drops of vinegar. Submerge the washed broccoli in this mixture and let it soak for about 20 minutes. This soaking process helps to remove any residual pesticides or impurities. After soaking, lift the broccoli out, shake off excess water, and pat it dry.
Step 3
Once the broccoli is drained, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are easy to eat in one bite, about 2-3 cm in size, ensuring they cook evenly.
Step 4
Spread the cut broccoli pieces on a layer of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This helps to absorb any remaining moisture, preventing the pancake batter from becoming too watery. If you’re not cooking immediately, store the broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it can be kept fresh for up to two weeks.
Step 5
Now, let’s make the delicious broccoli pancake batter. To the prepared and chopped broccoli, add about 60g of cheese for a savory flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper to enhance the taste.
Step 6
Add about 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic to the mixture for an aromatic boost. Feel free to add more if you enjoy a stronger garlic flavor. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or your hands, ensuring the broccoli, cheese, and seasonings are well combined.
Step 7
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little cooking oil. Ladle portions of the batter onto the hot pan, shaping them into round pancakes. Try to make them not too thick, so they cook through evenly.
Step 8
Reduce the heat to low and cook the pancakes until the bottom side is golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re beautifully browned and smell wonderfully savory.
Step 9
Transfer the perfectly cooked broccoli pancakes to a serving plate. For a final touch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor. Enjoy your homemade broccoli pancakes while they’re warm!
