Korean pancakes, or Jeon, are a beloved staple of Korean cuisine. Known for their versatility and irresistible flavours, Jeon can be enjoyed as appetisers, snacks, or main dishes, making them a favourite across all occasions. For those in Singapore craving authentic Korean pancakes and premium Korean barbecue, Nami Korean Grill House at Greenwood Avenue, Bukit Timah, is the perfect spot to indulge in the authentic taste of Korea.
Let’s explore seven must-try varieties of Jeon that will satisfy your taste buds and showcase the rich culinary heritage of Korean cuisine.
What Makes Korean Pancakes (Jeon) So Popular?
Jeon isn’t just food—it’s an experience that ties together family, tradition and culture. In Korean households, Jeon is often served during festive celebrations such as the Lunar New Year or Chuseok (Harvest Festival). It symbolises abundance and togetherness, with each pancake fried to golden perfection and enjoyed as part of a shared meal.
What sets Jeon apart is its adaptability. Made by combining various ingredients with a batter of flour and eggs, it allows for endless variations. Jeon caters to different tastes, from seafood to kimchi and mung beans. Served with a tangy soy-based dipping sauce, it offers a perfect blend of crispiness, softness and flavour in every bite.
7 Must-Try Korean Pancakes (Jeon)
1. Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Pancake)
One of the most popular Korean pancakes, Haemul Pajeon, is a seafood lover’s dream. This pancake is a hearty mix of fresh shrimp, squid and green onions, fried until golden and crispy. The green onions add a mild sweetness that complements the briny seafood flavours.
Traditionally, Haemul Pajeon is paired with makgeolli (Korean rice wine), creating a harmonious balance between the pancake’s rich textures and the drink’s light, fizzy character. Whether served as an appetiser or a main course, this Jeon is a must-try for anyone new to Korean cuisine.
2. Kimchi Jeon (Kimchi Pancake)
Kimchi Jeon is a spicy, tangy delight featuring Korea’s most iconic ingredient: fermented kimchi. The batter is mixed with chopped kimchi and its juices, resulting in a pancake bursting with umami and pleasant heat.
The crispy edges and soft interior make Kimchi Jeon a satisfying treat, but it shines with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce. It’s a great companion to Korean barbecue, balancing the richness of grilled meats with its zesty kick.
3. Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancake)
For a hearty and rustic option, Bindaetteok is made with ground mung beans rather than flour; this pancake has a denser texture and a nutty flavour. Commonly mixed with pork, kimchi or mung bean sprouts, Bindaetteok is pan-fried until crisp and golden.
This traditional pancake is often enjoyed as a street food snack or during festive gatherings. Its wholesome ingredients and earthy flavours make it a filling choice that pairs beautifully with spicy kimchi and pickled radish.
4. Donggeurangttaeng (Meatball Pancake)
Donggeurangttaeng might be small in size, but it’s big in flavour. These mini meatball-like pancakes are made with ground meat, tofu and finely chopped vegetables, coated in egg batter, and fried to perfection.
A favourite during Korean celebrations, Donggeurangttaeng is often part of a banchan (side dish) spread. Their bite-sized portions and savoury taste make them perfect for dipping into a soy-based sauce and enjoying with rice.
5. Hobak Jeon (Zucchini Pancake)
Light and refreshing, Hobak Jeon is made with slices of zucchini dipped in batter and fried until golden. This vegetarian-friendly Jeon is simple yet flavourful, with the natural sweetness of the zucchini shining through.
Hobak Jeon is often served as a healthy side dish or snack, paired with a tangy dipping sauce that enhances its mild flavour. It’s a wonderful option for those seeking a lighter take on traditional Korean pancakes.
6. Gochu Jeon (Stuffed Chili Pancake)
For spice enthusiasts, Gochu Jeon is a must-try. This unique pancake features green chilli peppers stuffed with seasoned ground meat or tofu, then coated in batter and fried. The result is a slightly spicy, savoury and satisfyingly crispy dish.
Gochu Jeon offers a delightful contrast of textures—the batter’s crunch, the filling’s softness, and the chilli’s mild heat. It’s often enjoyed with a soy-based dipping sauce and pairs well with milder Korean dishes to balance the heat.
7. Buchujeon (Chive Pancake)
Simple yet flavourful, Buchujeon is made with Korean garlic chives, known for their aromatic and slightly garlicky flavour. The batter is mixed with the chives and sometimes enhanced with seafood or vegetables for added texture.
Buchujeon is commonly enjoyed during rainy days in Korea. It is often accompanied by a warm bowl of doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew). Its herbal notes and crispy texture make it a comforting and delicious addition to any meal.
Tips for Enjoying Korean Pancakes
To fully enjoy the experience of eating Jeon, here are some practical tips:
- Pair with Dipping Sauces: A simple mixture of soy sauce, vinegar and chilli flakes perfectly complements most Jeon.
- Serve with Banchan: Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish and steamed vegetables enhance the flavours of Jeon.
- Enjoy with Makgeolli: This traditional Korean rice wine adds a light, fizzy contrast to savoury pancakes, making it an ideal pairing.
- Try with Barbecue: Jeon can be a great starter or side dish for a Korean barbecue meal, balancing the richness of grilled meats.
Discover Authentic Korean Pancakes at Nami Korean Grill House
From the crispy goodness of Haemul Pajeon to the spicy tang of Kimchi Jeon, Korean pancakes offer a delightful journey into the heart of Korean cuisine. Each variety has its own story, texture and flavour profile, making them a must-try for any food lover.
At Nami Korean Grill House, located in the heart of Bukit Timah, you can enjoy a premium Korean dining experience that brings the essence of Korea to Singapore. While savouring our renowned wagyu beef and marinated crab, don’t miss the chance to explore the flavours of authentic Korean Jeon. Visit Nami Korean Grill House today and immerse yourself in the rich, diverse world of Korean cuisine!
