Savory Perilla Seed Powder Zucchini Pancakes: A Delicious Snack & Side Dish
Zucchini Pancakes with Perilla Seed Powder: Perfect as a Snack or Side Dish
As the autumn nights grow longer, don’t let late-night cravings go unanswered! For my husband, who doesn’t smoke and gets hungry late at night, I decided to make some special pancakes using zucchini freshly picked from our garden. Instead of flour, I used perilla seed powder for an exceptionally nutty and wholesome flavor. These pancakes are perfect for a light snack or a delightful side dish with rice. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients- 1/2 round zucchini
- 2 Cheongyang chili peppers (for a spicy kick)
- 2 red chili peppers (for vibrant color)
- 6 Tbsp perilla seed powder (adjust based on zucchini’s moisture)
- 2 eggs
- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce (for seasoning)
- Cooking oil (such as soybean or grapeseed oil), for frying
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the zucchini thoroughly. You can peel it or leave the skin on for extra nutrients. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and then julienne it into thin strips, about 0.5 cm thick. Finely chop the Cheongyang and red chili peppers. Julienne vegetables ensure a pleasant texture in the finished pancake.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine the julienned zucchini and chopped chili peppers. Crack in the 2 eggs and add 1 tablespoon of anchovy sauce. Anchovy sauce adds a wonderful umami depth that regular salt can’t quite match. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3
Now, for the star ingredient: add 6 tablespoons of perilla seed powder. Mix everything together well until a batter forms, ensuring there are no lumps. * The amount of perilla seed powder needed can vary depending on the moisture content and size of your zucchini. Add it gradually until the mixture holds together without being too wet or too stiff. Aim for a consistency that allows the ingredients to bind nicely.
Step 4
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Spoon portions of the batter onto the hot pan, shaping them into small pancakes. Fry until golden brown on both sides, ensuring they cook through evenly. Once both sides are beautifully golden and crispy, your delicious perilla seed powder zucchini pancakes are ready to be enjoyed! They are best served warm.
