How to make Pajeon, Korean Scallion Pancakes

How to make Pajeon, Korean Scallion Pancakes is a easy Korean recipe that serves 4. 210 calories per serving. Recipe by Cafe Maddy on YouTube.

Prep: 21 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 51 min

Cost: $3.87 total, $0.97 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch Scallions (roughly chopped, about 8‑10 scallions)
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 1/2 cup Potato Starch (helps create a crisp texture)
  • 1 1/2 cups Water (cold)
  • 1 tsp Salt (pinch of salt for seasoning)
  • 1 cup Frozen Sliced Peppers (thawed slightly; adds color and mild heat)
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (for pan‑frying; use a high‑smoke‑point oil)
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce (for dipping sauce)
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar (for dipping sauce)
  • 1 tsp Granulated Sugar (balances the dipping sauce)

Instructions

  1. Chop Scallions

    Rinse the scallions, trim the root ends, and roughly chop them into 1‑inch pieces.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Make the Batter

    In a mixing bowl combine the all‑purpose flour, potato starch, salt, and water. Whisk until smooth; the batter should be slightly thinner than pancake batter.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Incorporate Scallions

    Add the chopped scallions to the batter and toss gently until they are evenly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Heat the Pan

    Place a non‑stick skillet over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom (about 2‑3 mm). Let the oil heat until it shimmers.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  5. Spread the Pancake Base

    Using a ladle or spoon, pour a generous amount of the scallion‑batter into the pan. Quickly spread with the back of the ladle to form a thin, even layer.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  6. Add Peppers and Glue

    Scatter the frozen sliced peppers over the batter. If the peppers look loose, drizzle a thin line of extra batter over them to act as glue.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  7. Fry First Side

    Let the pancake cook undisturbed for about 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bottom is crisp.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  8. Flip and Fry Other Side

    Using tongs and a spatula, carefully flip the pancake. Cook the second side for another 10 minutes until equally golden and crisp.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  9. Prepare Dipping Sauce

    In a small bowl combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

    Time: PT3M

  10. Serve

    Transfer the pancake to a cutting board, cut into wedges, and serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
210
Protein
4 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
8 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan by using a vegan oil and gluten‑free flour blend

Allergens: Wheat (gluten), Soy

Last updated: April 16, 2026

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How to make Pajeon, Korean Scallion Pancakes

Recipe by Cafe Maddy

Crispy, golden‑brown Korean scallion pancakes (pajeon) packed with sweet, caramelized scallions and colorful frozen sliced peppers. Served with a simple soy‑vinegar‑sugar dipping sauce, this easy‑to‑make side dish or appetizer will make you forget store‑bought versions forever.

EasyKoreanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
21m
Prep
20m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
51m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.87
Total cost
$0.97
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Chopping scallions to the right size
  • Achieving the correct batter consistency
  • Ensuring the pan is hot before adding batter
  • Frying each side for the full 10 minutes to develop crispness

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause burns – handle the pan with oven mitts or a thick towel.
  • Use tongs or a spatula to flip the pancake to avoid splattering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Korean scallion pancakes (pajeon) in Korean cuisine?

A

Pajeon is a traditional Korean savory pancake made with scallions and a simple batter. Historically, it was a popular street‑food and a comfort dish served with makgeolli (rice wine) during rainy days, because the sizzling sound of the batter reminded people of rain.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of pajeon in Korean cuisine?

A

In Korea, pajeon can include seafood (haemul‑pajeon), kimchi (kimchi‑pajeon), or mung bean flour (bindaetteok). The basic scallion version highlighted in this recipe is the most common household style, especially in the southern regions.

cultural
Q

How is pajeon traditionally served in Korea?

A

Pajeon is typically cut into bite‑size pieces and served hot with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar or sesame oil. It is often enjoyed alongside makgeolli or a light beer.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is pajeon traditionally associated with in Korean culture?

A

Pajeon is a favorite comfort food on rainy days and is also served at family gatherings, street festivals, and as a side dish during Korean holidays like Chuseok when a quick, crowd‑pleasing dish is needed.

cultural
Q

What other Korean dishes pair well with Korean scallion pancakes (pajeon) from Cafe Maddy?

A

Pajeon pairs beautifully with Korean rice wine (makgeolli), a simple cucumber kimchi, or a light broth such as doenjang‑jjigae. The crisp texture balances richer stews and fermented sides.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Korean scallion pancakes (pajeon) at home?

A

Common errors include using a batter that’s too thin (causing the pancake to fall apart), flipping too early (preventing a crisp crust), and not heating the oil enough before adding the batter. Follow the critical steps for batter consistency and proper frying time.

technical
Q

Why does this pajeon recipe use potato starch in addition to all‑purpose flour?

A

Potato starch adds extra crispness and a light, airy texture that pure wheat flour can’t achieve. It helps the pancake stay crunchy even after the scallions release moisture.

technical
Q

Can I make Korean scallion pancakes (pajeon) ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to step 3 and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 hours. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 days and re‑heat in a hot skillet to restore crispness.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Korean scallion pancakes (pajeon)?

A

The pancake should be golden‑brown on both sides, with a crisp, slightly flaky edge. The scallions should be visible and lightly caramelized, and the peppers should be embedded in the batter without sinking.

technical
Q

How do I know when the Korean scallion pancake (pajeon) is done cooking?

A

When the bottom is deep golden and the edges start to pull away from the pan, it’s time to flip. After the second 10‑minute side, the pancake should feel firm to the touch and have a uniform crisp color.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cafe Maddy specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Cafe Maddy focuses on approachable home‑cooking tutorials, especially Asian comfort foods and quick weeknight meals, with clear step‑by‑step visuals and practical kitchen tips.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Cafe Maddy's approach to Korean cooking differ from other Korean cooking channels?

A

Cafe Maddy emphasizes simplicity and ingredient accessibility, often using pantry staples and frozen vegetables, whereas many Korean cooking channels stick to traditional fresh‑market ingredients and more elaborate techniques.

channel

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