February | Buchu Buchingae (Korean leek pancake)

Buchu buchingae (korean leek pancake)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Korean leeks (or regular leeks), finely chopped
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
  • Optional: Chopped green chili or red pepper flakes for heat

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Chopped scallions (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, egg, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in the chopped leeks. If using, add chopped green chili or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and allow it to heat up.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

  1. Pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, spreading it into a circle about ¼ inch thick. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  2. Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate and cover it to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed.

Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Mix well. Add chopped scallions if desired.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Cut the pancakes into wedges and serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.