Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe

Korean Cheese Pancakes, also known as “Cheese Bindaetteok,” are a savory, crispy pancake filled with melted cheese, savory vegetables, and a bit of heat. These crispy, gooey delights are a delicious twist on the traditional Korean mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok), offering a comforting combination of chewy cheese and a crispy, savory exterior. Perfect for an appetizer, snack, or light meal, Korean Cheese Pancakes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Why You’ll Love Korean Cheese Pancakes

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with these savory treats:

Crispy & Chewy

The exterior is crispy and golden, while the interior holds a warm, chewy cheese center. Every bite is a perfect balance of textures.

Flavorful & Savory

Filled with flavorful vegetables like zucchini and onions, these pancakes have a rich and savory taste that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese.

Customizable

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the pancakes, such as minced meat or spicy peppers, to make them your own.

Quick & Easy

These pancakes are simple to prepare, with no long cooking times. Perfect for busy weeknights or as an easy snack for guests.

Fun to Make

Kids and adults alike will have fun making these pancakes, and it’s a great recipe for those who love cooking together.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delicious Korean Cheese Pancakes:

All-Purpose Flour

Flour is the base for the pancake batter and helps bind the ingredients together.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch helps to give the pancakes a crispy texture on the outside while keeping them soft and chewy inside.

Water

Water is used to bring the pancake batter together, making it easy to spread and fry.

Egg

The egg helps to hold the batter together and adds a richness to the pancakes.

Zucchini

Zucchini adds moisture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a perfect veggie for these pancakes.

Onion

Finely chopped onion adds a savory depth to the pancakes, complementing the cheese and other ingredients.

Mozzarella Cheese

The mozzarella cheese is key for the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center of these pancakes. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor to the pancakes that enhances the overall taste.

Soy Sauce

A dash of soy sauce adds saltiness and depth to the flavor profile.

Ground Pork (Optional)

For a non-vegetarian version, you can add ground pork or another protein of your choice to the batter.

Salt and Pepper

Seasoning is key to bringing all the flavors together, so make sure to add salt and pepper to taste.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card above!)

Instructions

Ready to make these crispy, cheesy delights? Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out any excess moisture. Finely chop the onion.

2. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, egg, water, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth. Stir in the grated zucchini, chopped onion, and mozzarella cheese until fully combined.

3. Cook the Pancakes

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scoop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot pan, spreading them out into small pancakes. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. If using ground pork, add the meat to the batter and cook until browned and fully cooked through.

4. Drain and Serve

Once the pancakes are crispy and golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Continue until all the batter is used up.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a little sugar, or enjoy them plain. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 10g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 500mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Korean Cheese Pancakes

With Dipping Sauce

Serve the pancakes with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. It adds a tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy pancakes.

With Kimchi

Pair these pancakes with a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean meal. The spiciness and fermentation of kimchi complement the savory pancakes perfectly.

On a Plate with Veggies

Serve the pancakes with some sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.

With Rice

For a heartier meal, enjoy the pancakes with steamed rice or a simple bowl of miso soup.

Additional Tips

• Add Protein: You can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or shrimp to the batter for a more substantial meal.
• Use Non-Stick Pan: If you find that the pancakes are sticking, use a non-stick pan to prevent them from sticking to the surface while cooking.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in tough pancakes. Stir just until the ingredients are incorporated.
• Make Them Spicy: Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the batter for a little heat.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can make the pancakes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet before serving.

Q2: Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
A2: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these pancakes gluten-free.

Q3: Can I freeze the pancakes?
A3: Yes, these pancakes freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat them in a pan or oven when you’re ready to eat.

Q4: How can I make these pancakes vegan?
A4: To make these pancakes vegan, use a flax egg or a regular egg substitute and substitute the cheese for a vegan cheese option.

Q5: Can I use a different cheese?
A5: Absolutely! Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack can be used for a unique twist.

Q6: How do I get the pancakes crispy?
A6: Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the batter, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each pancake enough room to crisp up on both sides.

Q7: Can I add more vegetables?
A7: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the batter for added flavor and texture.

Q8: How do I serve these pancakes for a party?
A8: Serve these pancakes on a large platter with a variety of dipping sauces on the side. They’re perfect for sharing!

Conclusion

Korean Cheese Pancakes are a delicious and savory treat that combines crispy texture with gooey cheese and flavorful vegetables. Perfect for a light meal or snack, these pancakes are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them with a dipping sauce, kimchi, or rice, they’re a great way to enjoy the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!

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