Korean Zucchini Fritters, also known as Hobak Jeon, are a delicious and easy way to enjoy zucchini. Lightly coated in flour and eggs, then pan-fried to perfection, these fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. Paired with a simple yet flavorful soy-vinegar dipping sauce, these fritters offer a balance of savory, tangy, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re familiar with Korean cuisine or trying it for the first time, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Fritters (Hobak Jeon):
- 0.885 lb zucchini (approximately 2 x 7-inch long zucchinis)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with cornstarch, potato starch, or tapioca starch for added crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons oil (any flavorless oil like vegetable or canola oil)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle them with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture.
- After 15 minutes, gently pat the zucchini slices with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a bowl, lightly beat the 2 eggs. Add ½ teaspoon of toasted sesame oil and mix well.
- On a plate, spread out the flour (or starch of choice). This will be used to coat the zucchini slices.
- Coat the Zucchini:
- Lightly coat each zucchini slice in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip each slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring both sides are evenly covered.
- Pan-Fry the Fritters:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the zucchini slices in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- After cooking, place the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, and red chili flakes (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy zucchini fritters warm with the dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Conclusion:
These Korean Zucchini Fritters (Hobak Jeon) are simple to make yet full of flavor. The crispy exterior and tender zucchini pairs beautifully with the savory, tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for a light meal, snack, or as a side dish, these fritters are a versatile addition to any meal. The toasted sesame oil and chili flakes in the dipping sauce add a delightful depth of flavor, while the option to use different starches allows you to customize the crispiness to your liking. Try these fritters with a bowl of rice or as part of a Korean-inspired feast!