Korean Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon): Crispy, Savory, and Addictively Good

19 INGREDIENTS • 5 STEPS • 25MINS

Korean Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon): Crispy, Savory, and Addictively Good

If you've never had Korean Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon), get ready for your new favorite savory snack. These crispy, golden-brown pancakes are packed with scallions, umami-rich fermented soybean paste, and just the right amount of crunch—all served with a tangy, sesame-infused dipping sauce.

Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or anytime snack, they’re quick, easy, and ridiculously satisfying. Bonus? They stay crispy even after dipping (because let’s be real, that’s important).
Love This Recipe?
If you've never had Korean Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon), get ready for your new favorite savory snack. These crispy, golden-brown pancakes are packed with scallions, umami-rich fermented soybean paste, and just the right amount of crunch—all served with a tangy, sesame-infused dipping sauce.

Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or anytime snack, they’re quick, easy, and ridiculously satisfying. Bonus? They stay crispy even after dipping (because let’s be real, that’s important).


How to Make Korean Scallion Pancakes (Pajeon)



Ingredient Insights & Substitutions

  • Potato Starch or Cornstarch – Helps create a light, crispy texture. For even more crunch, swap in rice flour.
  • Cold Water – Keeps the batter light and airy for a crispier finish. Some recipes use sparkling water for extra crispness!
  • Fermented Soybean Paste (Doenjang) – Adds depth and a subtle umami kick. If you don’t have it, substitute with miso paste or a splash of soy sauce.
  • Scallions – The star ingredient, bringing sweetness and a mild onion bite. If you want extra texture, add julienned carrots or thinly sliced zucchini.
  • Korean Chili Flakes (Gochugaru) – Brings a mild, smoky heat to the dipping sauce. If you don’t have it, swap with red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Tips & Suggestions

  • For Extra Crispy Pancakes – Spread the batter thinly and use enough oil to get those golden, crispy edges.
  • Want More Texture? – Add a handful of shrimp, kimchi, or thinly sliced mushrooms to the batter for a flavor boost.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – The batter can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before cooking.
  • Pair It With – Serve alongside kimchi, pickled radish, or a cold Korean beer for the ultimate experience.

Frequently Asked Questions



Can I Use a Different Flour?

Yes! You can swap all-purpose flour for a mix of rice flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free version.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?

For maximum crispiness, reheat in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side or air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes.

Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?

Yes! Pour the batter onto parchment paper in an air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Final Thoughts

These Korean Scallion Pancakes are crispy, savory, and insanely addictive, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack, impressing guests, or just satisfying a craving, these golden beauties deliver big flavor in every bite.

🔥 Crispy edges, soft centers, umami-packed dipping sauce—this is snack perfection.

author_avatar
Gordon Ramsay
Born in Scotland and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Gordon Ramsay trained with top chefs and opened successful restaurants worldwide. He's also a global TV star with shows like Next Level Chef, Hell’s Kitchen, and MasterChef.
https://www.gordonramsay.com/

25MINS

Total Time

$2.21

Cost Per Serving

Ingredients

Servings
4
us / metric
Pajeon
All-Purpose Flour
1 cup
All-Purpose Flour, sifted
Potato Starch
2 Tbsp
Potato Starch
or Cornstarch
Water
1 cup
Cold Water
Large Egg
1
Large Egg
Doenjang
2 tsp
Doenjang
Garlic Powder
1 tsp
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
1 tsp
Onion Powder
Granulated Sugar
1 tsp
Granulated Sugar
Scallion
1 bunch
Scallion, trimmed, cut in half lengthways
Vegetable Oil
2 Tbsp
Vegetable Oil
Salt
1 pinch
Salt
Ground Black Pepper
1 pinch
Ground Black Pepper
Dipping Sauce
Soy Sauce
2 Tbsp
Soy Sauce
Rice Vinegar
1 tsp
Rice Vinegar
Granulated Sugar
1/2 tsp
Granulated Sugar
Sesame Oil
1 tsp
Sesame Oil
Toasted White Sesame Seeds
1/2 tsp
Toasted White Sesame Seeds
Korean Chili Flakes
1/2 tsp
Korean Chili Flakes
Scallion
1/2
Scallion, chopped
Love This Recipe?
author_avatar
Gordon Ramsay
Born in Scotland and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Gordon Ramsay trained with top chefs and opened successful restaurants worldwide. He's also a global TV star with shows like Next Level Chef, Hell’s Kitchen, and MasterChef.
https://www.gordonramsay.com/

Cooking Instructions

Hide images
step 1
Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the All-Purpose Flour (1 cup), Potato Starch (2 Tbsp), Garlic Powder (1 tsp), Onion Powder (1 tsp), cold Water (1 cup), Large Egg (1), Granulated Sugar (1 tsp), Salt (1 pinch), Ground Black Pepper (1 pinch), and Doenjang (2 tsp) until smooth.
step 2
Cook the Pancakes: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of Vegetable Oil (2 Tbsp) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Spread a handful of Scallion (1 bunch) pieces across the skillet and pour enough batter to cover the scallions in a thin layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges are crispy and golden. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown on the other side.
step 3
Repeat: Add more oil as needed, and repeat with the remaining scallions and batter.
step 4
Make the Dipping Sauce: Stir together Soy Sauce (2 Tbsp), Rice Vinegar (1 tsp), Granulated Sugar (1/2 tsp), Sesame Oil (1 tsp), Toasted White Sesame Seeds (1/2 tsp), and Korean Chili Flakes (1/2 tsp) in a small bowl. Top with Scallion (1/2).
step 5
Serve: Slice pancakes into quarters or wedges and serve immediately with dipping sauce on the side.
step 5 Serve: Slice pancakes into quarters or wedges and serve immediately with dipping sauce on the side.

RECIPES TAG

Dairy-Free
Asian
Snack
Shellfish-Free
Dinner
Vegetarian
Korean
Winter
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