**Introduction**
If you’re exploring Korean cuisine beyond the well-known dishes, Hobak Jeon offers a simple yet delicious experience. Hobak Jeon is a pan-fried zucchini pancake, cherished in Korean households for its light texture and subtle flavors. It belongs to the “Pan-fried and Pancake” category, showcasing the versatility of vegetables in Korean cooking. Perfect as a side dish (banchan) or a snack, Hobak Jeon is easy to make and uses modest ingredients, making it an ideal recipe for those new to Korean flavors.
**Main Content**
**Ingredients (for 1 serving):**
– Korean zucchini (or small western zucchini): 150g
– All-purpose flour: 30g
– Egg: 1 large (about 50g)
– Water: 30ml
– Salt: 1/4 tsp (1.5g)
– Vegetable oil (for frying): 1 tbsp (15ml)
**Recipe Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Zucchini:** Wash the zucchini and slice into thin rounds about 0.5cm thick. If the zucchini is large or watery, lightly salt the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Then, pat dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess in the pancake.
2. **Make the Batter:** In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, and salt, stirring gently until smooth. The batter should be slightly thick but still flow easily.
3. **Add Egg and Mix:** Crack the egg into the batter and mix thoroughly. The egg helps bind the zucchini slices and adds richness to the pancake.
4. **Coat the Zucchini:** Dip each zucchini slice into the batter, ensuring it is well coated.
5. **Heat the Pan:** Place a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
6. **Pan-fry the Zucchini:** Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the pan. Fry for about 2 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook another 2 minutes on the other side. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning while ensuring even cooking.
7. **Serve:** Once cooked, transfer Hobak Jeon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, a few drops of sesame oil, and a pinch of chili flakes if desired.
**Conclusion**
Hobak Jeon is a wonderful dish to bring a bit of Korea to your table with its light, crispy texture and mild, fresh flavor. It’s perfect as a starting point for those eager to try pan-fried Korean delicacies without the complexity or strong spices. Try this recipe for a comforting snack or an elegant side dish at your next meal. Enjoy Korea’s simple yet savory culinary traditions through this humble pancake!
