Busan Jeon

Introduction to Busan Jeon

Busan Jeon is a traditional Korean pancake originating from the bustling coastal city of Busan, known for its vibrant street food culture and fresh seafood markets. This savory dish combines a variety of seafood and vegetables in a batter. Historically, Jeon dishes have been a staple in Korean cuisine, often served on holidays and as a part of ceremonial meals. Busan Jeon, in particular, reflects the region's rich maritime culture, incorporating local ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Water - 1 1/2 cups
• Eggs - 2
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic, minced - 3 cloves
• Green onions, chopped - 1/2 cup
• Shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 cup
• Squid, cleaned and sliced - 1/2 cup
• Red chili pepper, sliced - 1
• Oil - for frying
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation

1. Begin by preparing the batter. In a large bowl, combine flour, water, and eggs. Mix well until smooth and let it rest for 10 minutes.

2. While the batter rests, prepare the ingredients. Mince the garlic and chop the green onions. Slice the red chili pepper thinly. Peel and devein the shrimp, and clean and slice the squid.

3. Combine the prepared seafood, vegetables, and minced garlic into the batter. Add soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir until evenly mixed.

Cooking Process

1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a generous amount of oil.

2. Pour a ladleful of the batter mixture onto the pan, spreading it out to form a pancake roughly 1/2 inch thick. The key to perfect Jeon is maintaining a consistent thickness for even cooking.

3. Allow the Jeon to cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown. Adjust the heat as needed.

4. Use a spatula to carefully flip the Jeon, ensuring it remains intact. Repeat cooking until both sides are golden and crispy.

5. Transfer the cooked Jeon onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

6. Repeat the process with the remaining batter until all pancakes are made.

Serving and Enjoying Busan Jeon

Busan Jeon is best enjoyed hot straight from the pan. Serve it with a side of dipping sauce made from a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. The pancake is crispy on the outside while soft and flavorful on the inside, offering a delightful blend of textures.

To serve memorably, pair Busan Jeon with traditional Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, or a simple salad. The vibrant flavors complement the savory taste of the Jeon perfectly.

Given the communal aspect of Korean meals, share Busan Jeon with family or friends, making it a joyous culinary experience. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision in cooking time for consistently great results.