Korean Cheese Pancake

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Korean Cheese Pancake (also known as Cheese Pajeon) is a deliciously savory and cheesy twist on the traditional Korean pancake, known for its crispy texture and gooey cheese filling. The batter, made with a simple mix of flour, water, and a touch of seasoning, is filled with shredded cheese—often mozzarella or a blend of cheeses—and then pan-fried until golden and crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior with a melty, cheesy interior that’s simply irresistible.

The first time I made Korean Cheese Pancake, I was craving something crispy and cheesy, and this dish definitely hit the spot. The combination of savory pancake with gooey cheese is perfect, and the crispy edges make every bite satisfying. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make, yet it feels like a fun and indulgent treat. You can serve it with a dipping sauce like soy sauce or a spicy ketchup for extra flavor. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal, Korean Cheese Pancake is a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone coming back for more!

Perfect for:

  • Snack time
  • Appetizers
  • Light meals
  • Korean food lovers
  • Cheese enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Korean Cheese Pancake will become your go-to recipe:

  • Cheesy Goodness: The gooey melted cheese center creates the perfect cheesy bite.
  • Crispy Exterior: The outside of the pancake is crispy and golden, adding an amazing texture contrast.
  • Savory and Flavorful: The savory pancake batter, seasoned with green onions and garlic, pairs perfectly with the cheese.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days or sudden cravings.
  • Customizable Filling: You can easily adjust the type of cheese or add extra fillings like bacon or vegetables.
  • Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these pancakes fit into any time of the day.
  • Kid-Friendly: The combination of cheese and pancakes makes this dish a hit with kids.
  • No Special Equipment Required: All you need is a frying pan to cook these delicious pancakes.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pancake batter in advance, making meal prep a breeze.
  • Satisfying and Filling: These pancakes are hearty enough to satisfy any appetite and keep you full for hours.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Pancake Batter:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup cream cheese, softened (optional)

Optional Garnish:

  • Soy sauce or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for dipping
  • Chopped green onions

Ingredient Highlights

  • Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully and create a gooey filling.
  • Green Onions: Add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the pancake batter.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds a rich and creamy texture to the cheese filling.
  • Gochujang: A spicy, sweet Korean chili paste that can elevate the dish when used as a dipping sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pancake Batter:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg and water together. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
  3. Add Flavoring: Stir in the vegetable oil, green onions, and minced garlic until evenly distributed.

Prepare the Cheese Filling:

  1. Mix Cheese: In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, and optional cream cheese. Mix until well combined.

Cook the Pancakes:

  1. Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease with vegetable oil.
  2. Cook Pancakes: Pour a ladle of pancake batter into the pan to form a small pancake. Place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of the batter.
  3. Seal the Pancake: Pour a little more batter over the cheese to cover it completely. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with remaining batter and cheese filling.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Serve the pancakes hot with soy sauce or gochujang for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Korean Cheese Pancake:

  • As an Appetizer: Serve as a starter for a Korean-themed dinner or party.
  • With Dipping Sauces: Pair with soy sauce or gochujang for a savory kick.
  • For Breakfast: Enjoy a cheesy pancake for breakfast with a side of kimchi.
  • As a Snack: A perfect snack when you’re craving something warm and cheesy.
  • With Salad: Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
  • With Rice: Pair with steamed rice for a hearty, satisfying meal.
  • For Parties: Make mini pancakes and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at parties.
  • With Pickles: Serve with pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast to the cheese.
  • With Eggs: Enjoy with a fried egg on top for a more substantial meal.
  • As a Quick Lunch: Perfect for a fast yet filling lunch, especially with some extra veggies.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pancake with cheese, as it can cause the filling to spill out while cooking.
  • Use Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick frying pan ensures the pancakes cook evenly and are easy to flip.
  • Adjust Cheese Amount: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to suit your taste—more cheese means a gooier center.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a bit of gochujang to the pancake batter for an extra spicy kick.
  • Check for Doneness: Ensure the pancakes are cooked through by checking that the cheese is melted and the exterior is golden and crispy.

Recipe Variations

  • Cheese and Kimchi Pancakes: Add finely chopped kimchi to the cheese mixture for a tangy, spicy version.
  • Vegetable Pancakes: Add shredded carrots or zucchini to the batter for added texture and flavor.
  • Meat Lovers Pancake: Add cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken to the cheese filling for a meaty variation.
  • Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based egg substitute to create a vegan version.
  • Sweet and Savory Pancakes: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top for a sweet and savory twist.
  • Beef Bacon and Cheese Pancakes: Add crispy beef bacon bits to the cheese filling for a smoky flavor.

Special Equipment

  • Non-Stick Frying Pan: To cook the pancakes evenly without sticking.
  • Ladle: For portioning out pancake batter evenly.
  • Spatula: To flip the pancakes without breaking them.
  • Mixing Bowls: For preparing the pancake batter and cheese filling.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use different types of cheese?
    Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, provolone, or even cream cheese for a softer filling.
  2. Can I prepare the batter in advance?
    Yes, you can make the pancake batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  3. How do I keep the pancakes crispy?
    Serve the pancakes immediately after cooking to ensure they remain crispy. If needed, you can keep them warm in the oven at a low temperature.
  4. Can I freeze these pancakes?
    Yes, you can freeze the cooked pancakes for up to 2 months. Reheat in a frying pan or oven before serving.
  5. Can I make a larger batch?
    Yes, simply double the ingredients and cook in batches to serve a crowd.
  6. What can I serve these with besides soy sauce?
    You can also serve these with a spicy ketchup or a sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.
  7. Can I use gluten-free flour?
    Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
  8. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out?
    Be sure to seal the edges of the pancake thoroughly to keep the cheese inside while cooking.
  9. Can I use other vegetables in the pancake batter?
    Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor.
  10. How do I keep the pancakes warm for serving?
    Keep the pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you cook the rest.

Conclusion

Korean Cheese Pancakes, also known as Cheese Jeon, are a savory and cheesy twist on traditional Korean pancakes. Made with a batter of flour, egg, and water (or sometimes with a bit of rice flour for added crispiness), these pancakes are studded with melted cheese, usually mozzarella, for a gooey and satisfying center. The outside is crispy and golden, while the inside offers a delicious, cheesy surprise.

These pancakes can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. You can also add extras like green onions, kimchi, or even some sliced ham to the batter for added flavor. They’re often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil, which adds an extra layer of tangy and savory goodness. Korean Cheese Pancakes are perfect for a fun meal or party snack, and they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike with their cheesy, crispy goodness.

I can’t wait to see how your Korean Cheese Pancakes turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!