Korean Pan-Fried Meat and Tofu Pancake
Wanja Jeon is a beloved Korean dish that transforms simple ingredients like ground meat, tofu, and vegetables into flavorful, pan-fried patties. Lightly coated in flour and egg before frying, these savory pancakes have a crisp, golden exterior and a tender, satisfying interior.
Perfectly versatile, Wanja Jeon can be served as a banchan (side dish), a hearty appetizer, or even as anju—a snack enjoyed with drinks. Its comforting flavors and easy preparation make it a favorite for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or even quick weeknight dinners.
If you’re looking for a dish that combines traditional Korean flavors with universal appeal, Wanja Jeon is a must-try. It’s a simple yet delicious way to bring warmth and flavor to any meal.
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Ingredients
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Instructions
Prepare the Mixture:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork or beef, chopped scallions, garlic, onion, crumbled tofu, carrots, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the Patties:
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Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Set the patties aside on a plate.
Dredge in Flour and Egg:
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Place the flour in one shallow dish and beat the eggs in another. Dredge each patty in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
Pan-Fry the Patties:
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Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add enough cooking oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them.
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Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your pan.
Serve:
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Remove the patties from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
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Serve hot as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. They pair beautifully with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a dash of chili flakes or sesame seeds.
Maricel's Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) to the meat mixture. It adds a subtle heat and depth to the patties without overpowering the other flavors.
- If you’re serving these as an appetizer or snack, a simple dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar makes the perfect accompaniment!
