Flavorful Oyster Pancakes: A Simple & Delicious Recipe
Quick and Easy Homemade Oyster Pancakes
While fresh oysters are delightful on their own, pan-fried oyster pancakes offer a wonderfully comforting and delicious alternative. This recipe, passed down from my mother, makes it easy for anyone to create these tasty morsels at home. Experience the delightful chewiness of the oysters combined with a tender egg coating and the subtle, briny essence of the sea.
Main Ingredients
- Fresh oysters (if using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly)
- Eggs
- Spicy chili pepper (e.g., Korean Cheongyang or red chili, seeded and finely chopped)
- All-purpose flour (for coating)
Seasoning for Oysters
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sesame oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by selecting fresh oysters from the market. If using frozen oysters, opt for Korean ones as they are often considered to have the best flavor.
Step 2
In a bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them. Add the finely chopped spicy chili pepper and mix well. Season each egg with a pinch of salt. (Use Cheongyang chili for a spicier kick, or red chili for color.)
Step 3
If using frozen oysters, gently rinse them under cold running water to thaw. Once thawed, drain them thoroughly in a sieve to remove excess water. If using fresh oysters, rinse them clean and pat them dry.
Step 4
Season the drained oysters with a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, and a small amount of sesame oil. Gently toss them to coat evenly. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can break down the oysters.
Step 5
Lightly coat the seasoned oysters with all-purpose flour. Gently shake off any excess flour to ensure a thin, even layer.
Step 6
Dip each floured oyster into the prepared egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides.
Step 7
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Carefully scoop the egg-coated oysters with a spoon and place them into the hot pan. Cook gently over medium-low heat. (High heat can burn the coating before the inside is cooked.)
Step 8
Cooking over low heat allows the egg coating to develop a beautiful, golden-brown color. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 9
Once the oysters begin to firm up and the egg coating looks set, carefully flip them using a spatula. Cook until both sides are golden brown and the oysters are cooked through.
Step 10
Your delicious oyster pancakes are ready! They are best enjoyed immediately while warm.
Step 11
Arrange the finished oyster pancakes neatly on a serving plate. Prepare a simple dipping sauce to accompany them.
Step 12
Due to the seasoning applied earlier, these oyster pancakes are flavorful enough to enjoy on their own without any dipping sauce.
Step 13
To make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 Tbsp vinegar, 1/2 tsp minced garlic, 1 stalk finely chopped scallion, 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds. Mix well.
Step 14
Dip a warm, freshly cooked oyster pancake into the tangy dipping sauce. Each bite bursts with the fresh, oceanic flavor and savory juices of the oyster. It’s a taste of the sea, perfectly captured in a delicious pancake. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful dish!
