Korean Cabbage Pancake

Yangbaechu Jeon

양배추전

A crisp, savory skillet pancake packed with shredded cabbage.

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Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2
Difficulty
Easy
Spice Level
Non-spicy
Accessibility
Everyday Ingredients

What is Yangbaechu Jeon?

Yangbaechu Jeon (양배추전) is a crisp, savory skillet pancake packed with shredded cabbage.

This home-cooking version uses measured ingredients and straightforward stovetop steps so international cooks can understand what each ingredient contributes.

On the Korean Table

Background

Yangbaechu jeon is a practical cabbage pancake using common green cabbage in the Korean jeon format. It is a flexible modern home dish rather than a claim to one old regional recipe.

When and for Whom

It can be shared as a vegetable snack, a quick banchan, or a light casual meal for children and adults. Serve it soon after frying so the cabbage stays tender and the surface remains crisp.

What to Serve With It

Offer a light soy-vinegar dipping sauce if desired, plus kimchi or a fresh cucumber side. For a fuller meal, add steamed rice and a mild soup rather than another heavy fried dish.

Ingredients

You Need

  • Cabbageabout 8 oz (225 g), thinly shredded 3 cups
  • Flour 0.75 cup
  • Water 0.75 cup
  • Egg 1 large
  • Salt 0.5 tsp
  • Cooking Oil 2 tbsp

Nice to Have

  • Green Onionsliced 1 stalk

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Mix the batter

    Whisk the flour, water, egg, and salt into a loose batter.

  2. Step 2

    Fold in the cabbage

    Fold in the cabbage and add the green onion if using, until the vegetables are lightly coated.

  3. Step 3

    Shape the pancake

    Spread all the mixture in an oiled 10-inch skillet and press it into one even pancake about 1/2 inch thick.

  4. Step 4

    Flip and cook through

    Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the edges look set and the underside is crisp and golden. Flip when the pancake holds together and moves as one piece, then cook the second side for 4 to 5 minutes, until the center has no wet batter. The Recipe yields 1 ten-inch pancake for 2 servings.

Storage

Cool leftovers promptly, refrigerate in a covered container, and reheat only the portion you plan to eat. Texture is best when served fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Yangbaechu Jeon spicy?

This version is not spicy; black pepper or optional garnishes do not add chile heat.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead?

Yes. Wash and cut the ingredients ahead, keep them refrigerated, and begin the cooking steps close to serving time for the best texture.