Korean Potato and Cheese Pancakes (Gamjajeon)

Korean Potato and Cheese Pancakes, or Gamjajeon, are a crispy, savory delight that perfectly combines the humble flavors of potatoes with the rich, gooey goodness of melted cheese. These pancakes are traditionally served as a snack or side dish in Korean cuisine, and they’re a comforting, indulgent treat everyone will love. The crispy exterior, soft potato interior, and melted cheese make every bite irresistible, and they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal.

Why You’ll Love Korean Potato and Cheese Pancakes (Gamjajeon)

Here’s why these pancakes are a must-try:

Perfect Combination of Crispy and Cheesy

The outside is golden and crispy, while the inside boasts a creamy, cheesy potato filling that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and a little frying time, these pancakes are incredibly easy to make, yet they deliver big flavors.

Customizable

You can customize these pancakes by adding extra vegetables like onions, zucchini, or even some spicy kimchi if you like!

Great for Any Occasion

These pancakes are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family meal, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Gamjajeon always hits the spot.

Fun and Shareable

Everyone will love making and eating these together. Their crispy, cheesy goodness makes them an irresistible snack for family and friends.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delicious Korean Potato and Cheese Pancakes (Gamjajeon):

Potatoes

The star ingredient, potatoes provide the base for these pancakes, giving them a soft, hearty texture when mashed.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy center that everyone will love. You can also use cheddar or a combination of cheeses for added flavor.

All-Purpose Flour

Flour is used to bind the ingredients together and help give the pancakes their structure.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch helps create a crispier texture on the outside of the pancakes.

Egg

Egg is essential to holding the mixture together and creating a rich, golden texture when frying.

Green Onion

Green onions add a mild, savory flavor that complements the potatoes and cheese.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that’s essential for the authentic Korean taste.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce gives the pancakes a salty, umami flavor and enhances the overall taste.

Salt and Pepper

Basic seasoning to bring everything together. Salt enhances the flavor of the potatoes and cheese, while pepper adds a little kick.

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

Instructions

Ready to make these crispy, cheesy pancakes? Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, then squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This will help the pancakes become crispy when frying.

2. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, cornstarch, egg, green onions, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. Add the mozzarella cheese and mix again until evenly distributed.

3. Fry the Pancakes

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten it slightly with the back of your spoon to form a pancake. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat to ensure they cook evenly.

4. Drain and Serve

Once the pancakes are crispy and golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pancakes hot, either on their own or with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a bit of sugar. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve Korean Potato and Cheese Pancakes (Gamjajeon)

With a Dipping Sauce

Serve with a simple dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. This adds a tangy, umami contrast to the richness of the pancakes.

With Kimchi

Pair the pancakes with a side of spicy kimchi for an authentic Korean meal. The fermentation and spice from the kimchi balance out the richness of the pancakes.

With a Side of Rice

For a more substantial meal, serve these pancakes alongside a bowl of steamed white rice or a simple soup like miso soup.

As a Snack

Enjoy these pancakes on their own as a savory snack that’s crunchy, cheesy, and delicious.

Additional Tips

• Make It Extra Crispy: For an even crispier pancake, add more cornstarch to the batter or fry in a little extra oil.
• Add Other Vegetables: Try adding finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best because it melts beautifully. If you’re using pre-shredded cheese, it may not melt as well.
• Adjust Seasoning: If you like more spice, add some chili flakes or a splash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the batter.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these pancakes in advance?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Fry the pancakes just before serving.

Q2: Can I make these pancakes without cheese?
A2: While cheese is the star of this recipe, you can make a cheese-free version by simply leaving it out. The pancakes will still be delicious, though the texture will be different.

Q3: How do I keep the pancakes crispy?
A3: To maintain the crispiness, serve the pancakes immediately after frying. If you need to keep them warm, place them on a wire rack in a preheated oven set to 200°F (93°C) to prevent them from getting soggy.

Q4: Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
A4: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour for a gluten-free version of the pancakes.

Q5: How can I store leftovers?
A5: Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or the oven to crisp them up before serving.

Q6: Can I freeze these pancakes?
A6: Yes, you can freeze the pancakes. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.

Q7: Can I use other types of cheese?
A7: Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack. Choose a cheese that melts well for the best texture.

Q8: How do I make these pancakes spicier?
A8: Add finely chopped chili peppers or a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the batter for a spicy kick.

Q9: Can I add meat to the pancakes?
A9: Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, pork, or even bacon to the batter for added flavor and richness.

Q10: What can I serve these pancakes with?
A10: These pancakes pair well with kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a simple dipping sauce. You can also serve them with a side of rice or a light salad.

Conclusion

Korean Potato and Cheese Pancakes (Gamjajeon) are a delicious and comforting dish that perfectly balances crispy texture with a gooey, cheesy center. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, these pancakes are ideal for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a savory snack, a light meal, or a tasty side dish. The combination of soft potatoes, savory cheese, and crispy exteriors will make them an instant favorite. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!

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