Donggeurangttaeng (Korean Meatball Pancake) with Perilla Leaf and Chili Jeon
Three Types of Korean Pancakes (Donggeurangttaeng, Perilla Leaf Jeon, Chili Jeon) Made with One Ground Beef and Shrimp Batter
Here’s a versatile batter recipe perfect for holiday gatherings, allowing you to make Donggeurangttaeng, Perilla Leaf Jeon, and Chili Jeon all from a single, easy-to-prepare mixture! Making a variety of jeon (pancakes) can quickly fill up a platter. This year, I prepared the batter in advance, which made cooking on the actual holiday much smoother. While it was a bit tiring, the compliments from my family about how delicious everything was made all the effort worthwhile. It felt like my depleted energy was recharged by their smiles and the wonderful food. This recipe is a fantastic bonus, allowing you to easily create Perilla Leaf and Chili Jeon alongside the Donggeurangttaeng using the same batter. Enjoy these delicious holiday treats! Wishing you a healthy and happy day! ♡
Main Ingredients- 500g ground pork
- 2 cups blanched shrimp (finely chopped or mashed)
- 1/4 onion (very finely minced)
- 1/4 carrot (very finely minced)
- 4-5 Tbsp pancake mix (adjust based on batter consistency)
- 1 egg
- 10-15 perilla leaves
- 5-7 Korean green chilies or mild green chilies (seeds removed and minced, or thinly sliced)
Seasoning & Other Ingredients- Olive oil or cooking oil (for frying)
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Olive oil or cooking oil (for frying)
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the batter for the Donggeurangttaeng. In a bowl, combine the ground pork, blanched and finely chopped shrimp, and the finely minced onion and carrot. Add 1 Tbsp salt, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, a pinch of black pepper, and 1 tsp sesame oil (if using). Mix well with your hands, kneading until the mixture becomes cohesive and slightly sticky. Proper kneading is key to prevent the pancakes from falling apart and to ensure a delicious texture.
Step 2
Add 4-5 Tbsp of pancake mix and 1 egg to the seasoned meat mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Adjust the consistency: if the batter is too wet, add a little more pancake mix; if it’s too dry, add a tiny bit of water. The batter should be firm enough to shape into small patties without being too sticky.
Step 3
Prepare the perilla leaves and chili peppers. Wash and thoroughly dry the perilla leaves. Gently score the surface of the leaves that will hold the batter, or lightly dust them with flour, to help the batter adhere better. For the chili peppers, remove the stems and seeds. Make a slit down one side to create a pocket for the filling, or slice them in half lengthwise. Alternatively, you can mince them finely and mix them into the batter like the other vegetables.
Step 4
Now it’s time to fry the jeon. Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. We’ll start with the perilla leaf and chili jeon. Spread a portion of the prepared batter onto the scored side of a perilla leaf, gently press it into a round shape, and carefully place it into the heated pan. Fry on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. Be mindful of the heat to ensure the inside cooks completely. For chili jeon, fill the slit with batter, or place the batter on top of the sliced chili pepper before frying until golden brown.
Step 5
Fry the Donggeurangttaeng in the same manner. Shape the batter into small, flattened patties and place them in the hot pan. Flip them frequently and fry until both sides are golden brown and the interior is fully cooked. Adding a little more oil as needed can help achieve a crispier texture.
Step 6
Arrange the perfectly fried Donggeurangttaeng, Perilla Leaf Jeon, and Chili Jeon attractively on a serving platter. They are best enjoyed warm. Serve with a dipping sauce, like soy sauce, or alongside kimchi for an even more delightful experience. Enjoy your festive and delicious homemade Korean holiday meal!
