Healthy Kimchi Pancake (Kimchijeon) Recipe
This Healthy Kimchi Pancake (Kimchijeon) is a spicy, savory Korean favorite reimagined with clean ingredients and balanced macros. Made with probiotic-rich kimchi, oat or chickpea flour, and just a touch of oil, this version is lighter, protein-boosted, and gluten-free. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and ready in minutes—perfect for a quick lunch or gut-friendly post-workout recovery meal.
- 1 cup chopped, well-fermented kimchi (drained)
- ½ cup oat flour or chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons kimchi juice
- 1 egg
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds
- Pinch of red chili flakes
Pancake Batter
Optional Dipping Sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine chopped kimchi, flour, egg, kimchi juice, green onion, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Stir until a thick, spreadable batter forms.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Step 3: Pour half the batter into the pan, spreading it into a 6-inch pancake. Cook 4 – 5 minutes until the bottom is golden and crisp.
- Step 4: Flip and cook the other side 3 – 4 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter.
- Step 5: Mix dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve pancakes hot with sauce on the side.
Notes
- Kimchi provides probiotics that support gut health and immunity.
- Use chickpea flour for extra protein and a nutty flavor.
- Make it vegan with a flax egg (1 tbsp flax meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
- Great as lunch, snack, or a side dish with grilled protein or rice.
- Store leftovers up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet to keep them crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flour other than oat or chickpea?
Yes—rice flour or all-purpose flour works if gluten-free isn’t required.
How spicy is this pancake?
Heat level depends on your kimchi. Use mild kimchi or rinse it briefly to reduce spice.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely—replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
What can I serve with kimchi pancakes?
Pair with the dipping sauce, steamed rice, or miso soup for a complete meal.