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The Recipe · No.575 · Haemul Pajeon

Haemul Pajeon, and where to source it

Haemul Pajeon — 5best2buy.com 5BEST2BUY.COM Haemul Pajeon Korean 5best2buy.com

The whole point of pajeon is contrast: a lacy crisp exterior against a tender interior packed with scallions and seafood. That crispness only happens with enough hot oil and a batter kept cold and thin, so the edges fry rather than steam.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep20 min
Cook15 min
Makes2 pancakes
CuisineKorean
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains  eggs · gluten · shellfish · soy · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 2 pancakes
All-purpose flour
The base of the batter; a splash of cold sparkling water lightens it for extra crisp.
1 cup
Egg
Binds the batter and helps the pancake set and brown.
1
Soy sauce
The base of the dipping sauce, cut with vinegar and a pinch of gochugaru.
2 tbsp
Toasted sesame oil
A few drops in the dipping sauce for aroma.
1 tsp
Scallions, squid, shrimp, mussels
Whole scallions and mixed seafood are the filling; use whatever is freshest at the counter.
1 bunch scallions, 1/2 lb seafood
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks.
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Stovetop
The Method
  1. Mix batterWhisk flour, egg, and ice-cold water into a thin batter; keep it cold so the pancake fries crisp instead of gummy.
  2. LayerLay a bed of scallions in a hot oiled pan, pour batter over, and scatter chopped seafood on top so it presses into the pancake.
  3. Fry crispFry in a generous slick of oil over medium-high heat 4-5 minutes per side until the edges are deep golden and lacy. Add more oil at the edges to crisp them.
  4. ServeFlip once, press flat, and cut into wedges; serve hot with the soy-vinegar dipping sauce.
The Toolkit

Nonstick skillet · Wide spatula · Mixing bowl · Whisk · Small dish

Straight Answers
Can you make Haemul Pajeon in an air fryer? — Not really

Not really — loose batter spreads and needs a flat, hot surface. Keep this one on the stovetop or griddle.

Can you freeze Haemul Pajeon? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Haemul Pajeon ahead of time? — Prep ahead

Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.

Is Haemul Pajeon gluten-free? — Not as written

Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).

Is Haemul Pajeon vegan? — No

No — it contains seafood, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.

Community Notes

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