What is Hobak Jeon in English?

Hobak Jeon translates to “zucchini pancake” in English. It’s a popular Korean side dish made by pan-frying sliced zucchini that's been coated in flour and egg. Unlike Western pancakes, Hobak Jeon is savory and typically served with a soy-based dipping sauce. It’s one of the most common types of jeon (Korean fritters) and is especially popular in home-style meals and traditional holiday spreads.

What is the difference between zucchini and Korean zucchini?

Korean zucchini, known as aehobak, is lighter in color, has smoother skin, and contains less moisture than regular zucchini. Its flesh is also softer, which helps it cook faster and maintain a creamier texture in dishes like Hobak Jeon. While you can absolutely use regular zucchini for Korean Zucchini Pancakes (Hobak Jeon), using aehobak gives the dish a more traditional feel and slightly different flavor profile.

Are zucchini pancakes healthy?

Yes, zucchini pancakes—especially Korean Zucchini Pancakes (Hobak Jeon)—are a healthy option. They’re low in calories, rich in vitamins, and don’t require much oil to cook. With zucchini as the main ingredient, they offer fiber and antioxidants, while the egg adds protein. Because they’re pan-fried quickly and not deep-fried, they make a light and nutritious snack or side dish.

What’s the nutritional value of Hobak Jeon?

The exact nutritional content can vary based on size and ingredients used, but a standard serving of Hobak Jeon (about 6–8 pieces) contains roughly 120–150 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat. It’s a well-balanced dish with minimal carbs and a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and healthy fats. That makes Korean Zucchini Pancakes (Hobak Jeon) a smart addition to most diets, especially when served with vegetables or rice.

Korean Zucchini Pancakes (Hobak Jeon): 5 Surprising Reasons They’re a Healthy Hit

Name: Korean Zucchini Pancakes (Hobak Jeon)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 zucchinis (about 10 ounces each); Salt; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup flour; Oil for pan frying; Optional: red pepper slices or herb leaflets (minari, parsley); Dipping Sauce:; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp water; 1 tsp vinegar; Optional: pinch of sugar or black pepper

Description

Korean Zucchini Pancakes (Hobak Jeon) are a simple, healthy Korean side dish made with fresh zucchini slices, lightly coated in flour and egg, then pan-fried to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

2 zucchinis (about 10 ounces each)

Salt

2 large eggs, beaten

1/4 cup flour

Oil for pan frying

Optional: red pepper slices or herb leaflets (minari, parsley)

Dipping Sauce:

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp water

1 tsp vinegar

Optional: pinch of sugar or black pepper

Instructions

1. Slice zucchini into ⅓-inch rounds. Salt both sides and let sit for 15–20 minutes. Pat dry.

2. Coat each slice in flour evenly on both sides.

3. Dip in beaten egg.

4. Heat a non-stick pan with 1 tbsp oil. Fry zucchini slices until golden on one side.

5. Add red pepper or herb garnish on top. Flip and cook the other side.

6. Repeat with all slices. Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use less egg and a hotter pan. For a spicier kick, add gochugaru or chili to the dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Side Dish
Method: Pan-Fried
Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 pieces
Calories: 140
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: hobak jeon, Korean zucchini pancakes, zucchini jeon