Vegetable Pancake

Ingredients

  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 carrot
  • 2 fresh chilies (fingerlong chilies), optional
  • 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 small bunch green onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons dried shrimp, optional
  • 4 tablespoons Panko breadcrumbs
  • 8 tablespoons oil, for frying
  • - FOR THE PANCAKE BATTER -
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup potato starch, or cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1 1/4 cups ice water
  • - FOR THE DIPPING SAUCE -
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar, either rice wine or white vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons water
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Thinly shred zucchini, carrots, and chilies with a mandoline or knife.  Cut onions and green onions into thin slices.  Thinner cuts cook more evenly in the batter.

Step 2: Place sliced vegetables in a large bowl.  If using dried shrimp, finely chop or blend it in a mini food processor, then add to the vegetable mixture in a bowl.

Step 3: Sprinkle in flour, potato starch (or cornstarch), baking powder, and salt.  Pour in ice-cold water and mix until the vegetables are evenly coated.  The batter should be light but hold together.  Sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs over the mixture and toss briefly.  This helps absorb moisture and enhances crispness.

Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet over medium heat.  Pour a ladleful of batter (about 1/4 of batter amount) into the pan, spreading it thinly and evenly.  A thickness of about 3/8″ ensures crispness – too thin may tear, too thick won’t crisp properly.

Step 5: Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges set and the surface looks dry.  Add more oil as needed.  Gently rotate with a spatula for even browning and to prevent sticking.  Flip when golden brown.  If edges seem dry, add a little oil.  Cook another 2-3 minutes until both sides are crispy and golden brown.  Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.  Repeat with remaining batter.

Enjoy these savory, crispy pancakes from Beyond Kimchee!