Nourishing & Sweet Old Pumpkin Pancakes (Neulkeun Hobak Jeon)
Savory Pan-Fried Old Pumpkin Pancakes
Old pumpkin, characterized by its firm exterior and mature seeds within, is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s particularly beneficial for those with weak stomachs, patients in recovery, individuals managing high blood pressure or diabetes, and can help reduce post-partum swelling. Explore various delicious side dishes you can create with this versatile old pumpkin!
Pancake Ingredients
- 300g old pumpkin (weight after removing skin and seeds)
- 1 pinch of salt (to draw out moisture and season)
- 4 Tbsp pancake mix (for a crispy texture)
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil (for frying)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Thoroughly wash the old pumpkin, then peel off the skin and remove the seeds. Slice it thinly into about 0.5cm thick strips. Avoid slicing too thinly, as this can cause the pieces to break apart during cooking. Aim for a consistent thickness for even cooking.
Step 2
Place the sliced pumpkin in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 pinch of salt. Gently mix it with your hands to coat the pumpkin. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process will draw out excess moisture from the pumpkin, making it softer and lightly seasoned. After salting, you can lightly press the pumpkin with a paper towel to remove any remaining water for a better texture.
Step 3
Add 4 tablespoons of pancake mix to the drained pumpkin and mix well until the batter evenly coats the pumpkin strips. Gently combine them. If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more pancake mix. If it appears too dry, add a very small amount of water (about 1 teaspoon) to reach a manageable consistency.
Step 4
Heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Spoon portions of the pumpkin mixture into the hot pan, forming small pancakes. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure each side is cooked thoroughly to guarantee the pumpkin is tender inside. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture!
