Korean Cheese Pancake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Korean Cheese Pancakes are the perfect balance of crispy exterior and cheesy interior, with the added sweetness of brown sugar. The potatoes create a soft, tender base that perfectly complements the stringy mozzarella cheese. Whether as a snack or appetizer, these pancakes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something deliciously cheesy and crispy.

Ingredients

• 250 g peeled potatoes
• 50 g mozzarella cheese (shredded or cut into cubes)
• 20 g brown sugar
• 25 g cornstarch or cornflour
• Cooking oil
• A pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Grate the peeled potatoes into fine shreds using a grater or food processor. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese (or cubes), brown sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Form the pancakes: Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and shape it into a small patty, ensuring that the cheese is well distributed inside. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
4. Fry the pancakes: Heat a bit of cooking oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the formed potato patties into the skillet, pressing down gently with a spatula to flatten them slightly. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and serve: Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a small amount of red pepper flakes or chili paste to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
• Different cheese: While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots into the mixture for added flavor and texture.
• Sweet variation: For a sweeter version, reduce the amount of salt and add more brown sugar or even honey to the batter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pancakes in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore the crispiness, or microwave them if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for these pancakes?

Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, gouda, or even cream cheese. Mozzarella is preferred for its stringy texture, but other cheeses will work too.

Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

While these pancakes are best served fresh for maximum crispiness, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.

Can I bake these pancakes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, though frying gives them a crispier texture.

Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato patties (before frying) for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a little extra time for cooking.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying?

Make sure the cheese is well-distributed within the potato mixture and that the pancakes are tightly pressed together. Also, avoid overstuffing the pancakes with cheese.

How do I make the pancakes crispier?

To get extra crispiness, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the pancakes. You can also lightly press down on the pancakes while frying to ensure a crispy, even texture.

What should I serve with Korean Cheese Pancakes?

These pancakes are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce mixed with a little sesame oil, or even a sweet chili sauce for a touch of heat.

Can I make these pancakes without cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps bind the mixture and gives the pancakes a crispy texture. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with potato starch or all-purpose flour, though the texture may vary slightly.

How can I make these pancakes spicier?

For a spicier kick, mix in some chili flakes or chili paste into the potato mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.

Are these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes, these pancakes are gluten-free as long as you use cornstarch or potato starch instead of regular flour. Be sure to check the packaging for cross-contamination warnings if you’re sensitive to gluten.

Conclusion

Korean Cheese Pancakes are a tasty and indulgent treat that combines the crispy texture of a fried pancake with a gooey, melty cheese center. With the savory flavor of potatoes and the sweetness from the brown sugar, these pancakes are sure to be a hit at any meal or gathering. Simple to make and full of flavor, they’re the perfect snack for anyone craving a comforting and delicious bite.

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