Busan Seafood Pancake
The Busan Seafood Pancake, known locally as Haemul Pajeon, is a delightful dish hailing from the coastal city of Busan in South Korea. This city, renowned for its fresh seafood offerings, provides a tantalizing backdrop for this savory pancake, which combines the flavors of the sea with a delightful crispy texture. Often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, this dish has a rich history and is a staple in Korean cuisine, particularly during social gatherings and traditional celebrations.
History
The origins of the Busan Seafood Pancake can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty, where pancakes made with flour and vegetables were a common way to stretch limited resources. Over time, the pancake evolved with the introduction of seafood, thanks to Busan's proximity to the ocean. This integration of seafood not only amplified the flavor but also made it a luxurious treat during the monsoons and festive occasions.
Ingredients
To make a traditional Busan Seafood Pancake, gather the following ingredients:
- Flour
- Corn starch
- Eggs
- Water
- Salt
- Vegetable oil
- Small shrimp
- Mussels
- Squid
- Green onions
- Red chili pepper
- Garlic
Cooking Tools
Have these kitchen tools on hand:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood and Vegetables
Start by cleaning and chopping the small shrimp, mussels, and squid into bite-sized pieces. Slice the green onions into long strips and thinly slice the red chili pepper. Mince the garlic.
Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour and 1/4 cup of corn starch. Crack 2 eggs into the bowl, add a pinch of salt, and slowly whisk in 1 cup of water until you achieve a smooth batter without any lumps.
Step 3: Mix in the Ingredients
Add the prepared seafood, green onions, red chili pepper, and garlic into the batter. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Place a large frying pan over medium heat and add a generous amount of vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers.
Step 2: Cook the Pancake
Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it out evenly to form a pancake. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on one side until it becomes golden brown and crispy. Flip the pancake carefully and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the other side is equally crispy. You can check with a cooking timer to ensure precise cooking time.
Step 3: Transfer and Slice
Once cooked, transfer the pancake to a large serving plate. Slice it into small wedges or squares for easy serving.
How to Enjoy
Busan Seafood Pancake is best enjoyed hot, often dipped in a soy sauce-based dipping sauce. To make a simple dipping sauce, mix soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl. Serve alongside with kimchi or additional red chili pepper slices for added spice.
This dish makes a perfect starter or a communal dish for a lively gathering, where it can be shared among friends and family, evoking the spirit of Korean culinary traditions.