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Korean Potato Cheese Pancakes (Gamjajeon)

Crispy golden potato pancakes with gooey melted cheese, Korean-inspired comfort food perfect for snacks or appetizers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 pancakes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Korean
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

  • 5 medium russet potatoes peeled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3-4 green scallions finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • Box grater or food processor
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan
  • Spatula
  • Kitchen towels or cheesecloth

Method
 

  1. Peel and shred the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Immediately transfer to a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.
  2. Drain the shredded potatoes thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer, then squeeze out excess moisture using kitchen towels or cheesecloth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine dried potato shreds with eggs, cornstarch, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  4. Fold in half of the shredded cheese and chopped scallions, reserving the rest for topping.
  5. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat with a thin layer of vegetable oil.
  6. Scoop about 1/3 cup of potato mixture per pancake into the hot pan, pressing flat with a spatula to create uniform thickness.
  7. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is deep golden-brown and crispy.
  8. Flip carefully, sprinkle reserved cheese and scallions on the cooked side, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  9. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate briefly, then move to a serving platter.
  10. Sprinkle sesame seeds over finished pancakes and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
  11. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan between batches as needed.

Notes

For extra crispy pancakes, ensure potatoes are thoroughly dried before mixing. Serve with soy-vinegar dipping sauce or spicy mayo. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best results.