Dive into the vibrant world of Korean cuisine with these crispy and aromatic Minari & Perilla Leaf Jeon (pancakes). These savory delights offer a unique blend of textures and flavors, showcasing the earthy notes of minari (water dropwort) and the slightly peppery, fragrant aroma of perilla leaves. Forget bland pancakes; this recipe delivers a sophisticated taste experience, perfect as a side dish or a light meal. The contrasting textures – tender greens against a shatteringly crisp exterior – create a delightful culinary dance in your mouth. This recipe elevates the humble pancake to a new level of deliciousness.
Beyond their incredible taste, these Jeon are surprisingly easy to make, requiring readily available ingredients and a straightforward cooking method. Get ready to be amazed by how simple it is to achieve such a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Ready to create these flavourful pancakes yourself? Let's jump into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Pan
Ingredients
- Minari (water dropwort)
- Perilla leaves
- All-purpose flour
- Rice flour
- Water
- Egg
- Salt
- Vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Batter and Ingredients
- Wash and chop the minari and perilla leaves. (This step is implied before cooking begins.)
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, rice flour, egg, salt and water. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter. (This step is implied before cooking begins.)
- Add the chopped minari and perilla leaves to the batter and mix gently.
Step 2. Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a pan with vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Pour a spoonful of the batter onto the hot pan, forming thin pancakes.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides, flipping carefully when one side is done.
Step 3. Serve
- Serve hot.
Read more: Gochujang Korean BBQ Rice Bowl: 15-Minute Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired batter consistency.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the pancakes. Cook in batches if needed.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., soy sauce, gochujang).
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbs: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Where can I find minari (water dropwort)?
Minari can be found at Asian grocery stores, some farmers' markets, or online retailers specializing in Asian ingredients. If unavailable, you can substitute with a similar leafy green, but the flavor will be slightly different.
2. Can I use different herbs instead of perilla leaves?
Yes! Other herbs like spinach, shiso, or even a mix of your favorite greens can be substituted. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary.
3. How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your pan is well-oiled or use a non-stick pan. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches for even browning and to prevent sticking.
These Minari & Perilla Leaf Jeon are a testament to the simplicity and brilliance of Korean cuisine. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a dish bursting with flavor and texture that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and unique taste of these delightful pancakes!