Crispy Savory Cabbage Pancakes – A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Cabbage pancakes are a fantastic way to turn simple, everyday ingredients into a crispy, flavorful dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. These golden, pan-fried pancakes are light yet filling, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a savory snack, or a creative way to enjoy more vegetables, cabbage pancakes are the perfect solution.

This recipe is inspired by various global cuisines, from Japanese Okonomiyaki to Korean Pajeon, while remaining simple enough to prepare with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The combination of shredded cabbage, eggs, and flour creates a beautifully textured pancake that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy cabbage, this recipe will surprise you with its versatility and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love These Cabbage Pancakes

1. Budget-Friendly and Simple Ingredients

Cabbage is one of the most affordable vegetables available, making this recipe perfect for anyone looking for an inexpensive yet delicious meal. Combined with eggs, flour, and seasonings, these pancakes come together quickly with minimal effort.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With a prep time of under 10 minutes and a short cooking time, these pancakes are perfect for busy days. You don’t need any special equipment—just a mixing bowl, a frying pan, and a spatula.

3. Crispy and Flavorful

The crispiness of these pancakes, combined with the savory flavors of garlic, green onions, and optional paprika, makes them incredibly satisfying. They’re light yet packed with a delicious umami taste that keeps you coming back for more.

4. A Healthy and Nutritious Option

Cabbage is loaded with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, making these pancakes a great way to include more vegetables in your diet. The eggs add protein, while the flour provides structure, making this dish balanced and wholesome.

5. Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about cabbage pancakes is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to add more vegetables, incorporate proteins like shrimp or bacon, or adjust the spices to your liking, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

• In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, eggs, flour, milk (or water), green onions, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
• Stir well until all ingredients are evenly combined. The batter should be slightly thick but not too dry.

2. Heat the Pan

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.

3. Cook the Pancakes

• Scoop about ¼ cup of the batter and place it into the pan, spreading it slightly to form a pancake shape.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the pan and drain excess oil on a paper towel.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, sour cream, or a spicy mayo.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate, 1 Pancake)

Tips for Making the Perfect Cabbage Pancakes

1. Shred the Cabbage Finely

Finely shredded cabbage ensures that the pancakes cook evenly and develop a crispy texture. You can use a knife, a box grater, or a food processor to get the right consistency.

2. Let the Batter Rest

Allowing the batter to sit for a few minutes before cooking helps the flour absorb the moisture, resulting in a better texture. This step also allows the flavors to meld together.

3. Use the Right Amount of Oil

For the crispiest pancakes, make sure the pan is well-heated before adding the batter. Using a moderate amount of oil helps achieve a golden-brown crust while preventing the pancakes from becoming greasy.

4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cook the pancakes in batches if needed, ensuring enough space in the pan for even cooking. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of frying, leading to softer pancakes rather than crispy ones.

5. Adjust Seasonings to Taste

While this recipe has a balanced flavor profile, feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences. Adding a dash of soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili flakes can enhance the overall taste.

Variations and Additions

1. Make Them Spicier

For a bit of heat, add chili flakes, sriracha, or finely chopped fresh chilies to the batter.

2. Add Cheese for Extra Flavor

A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan in the batter or on top of the pancakes gives them a rich, cheesy taste.

3. Include Protein for a Complete Meal

Enhance these pancakes with protein-rich ingredients such as diced ham, cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or small shrimp for a heartier dish.

4. Try Different Flours for a Unique Twist

While all-purpose flour works perfectly, you can experiment with other types of flour like chickpea flour, whole wheat flour, or rice flour for different textures and flavors.

5. Make It Vegan

To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk or water.

Best Dipping Sauces for Cabbage Pancakes

These crispy pancakes pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some great options:

• Soy Sauce & Vinegar Dip – A simple mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Greek yogurt mixed with minced garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for a creamy contrast.
• Spicy Mayo – A blend of mayonnaise and sriracha for a creamy and spicy kick.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – A slightly sweet and mildly spicy sauce that enhances the pancake’s flavor.
• Herbed Sour Cream – Sour cream mixed with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a refreshing taste.

What to Serve with Cabbage Pancakes

While cabbage pancakes can be enjoyed on their own, pairing them with complementary dishes makes for a more satisfying meal. Here are some serving ideas:

• Light Soup – Serve alongside miso soup, vegetable broth, or a light chicken soup for a balanced meal.
• Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
• Grilled Protein – Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-rounded dish.
• Steamed Rice – Serve with jasmine or brown rice for a more filling meal.

FAQs About Cabbage Pancakes

1. Can I Make Cabbage Pancakes Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply stir the batter before cooking, as the ingredients may settle.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftover cabbage pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a pan over medium heat to restore their crispiness or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.

3. Can I Freeze Cabbage Pancakes?

Yes! Allow the pancakes to cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen in a pan or oven.

4. Can I Make These Pancakes Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour or a blend of rice and chickpea flour to make a gluten-free version. Ensure any additional ingredients, like soy sauce, are also gluten-free.

5. What Other Vegetables Can I Add?

You can enhance the pancakes with grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added color and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as some vegetables release more water during cooking.

Final Thoughts

Cabbage pancakes are an easy, delicious, and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Their crispy edges, soft interior, and savory flavor make them a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving them as a quick breakfast, an appetizer, or a light meal.

With their budget-friendly ingredients, quick preparation time, and versatility, these pancakes are a great addition to your recipe collection. Whether you enjoy them plain, customize them with your favorite add-ins, or serve them with a delicious dipping sauce, they are sure to become a favorite.

Try this recipe today and discover how a humble vegetable like cabbage can turn into something truly special!

Cabbage Pancakes – A Crispy, Savory Delight

Print Recipe

Cabbage pancakes are a crispy, savory delight that come together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. Made with shredded cabbage, eggs, and a light batter, these golden-brown pancakes are packed with flavor and texture. Whether served as a quick breakfast, a side dish, or a satisfying snack, they’re an easy and budget-friendly recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of taste!

• Author: Amal
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Pan-Frying
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cabbage
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (60 ml) milk or water
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Shred the cabbage finely. Chop the green onions if using, and mince the garlic.

• Make the Batter:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, flour, milk (or water), salt, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
  • Stir in the shredded cabbage, green onions, and minced garlic. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

• Cook the Pancakes:

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
  • Spoon about ¼ cup of batter into the pan for each pancake, flattening it slightly.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

• Serve and Enjoy:

  • Transfer the pancakes to a plate and serve hot with soy sauce, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• Make It Extra Crispy: For extra crunch, press the pancakes down slightly while cooking and let them cook a bit longer on each side.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with chickpea or rice flour.
• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or chopped chili peppers to the batter for a spicier version.
• Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.
• Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with soy sauce, spicy mayo, or a light salad for a complete meal.