It was one of those lazy Sunday mornings when my cravings took an unexpected turn. Instead of the usual stack of pancakes or a hearty omelet, I found myself longing for something a little different – Kimchi Scallion Waffles. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Kimchi and waffles? That’s a bold combination!” But let me tell you, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular part of your weekend brunch repertoire.
I can still remember the first time I made these Kimchi Scallion Waffles. The aroma of the savory, slightly spicy kimchi mingling with the fragrant scallions had me hooked from the moment I started cooking. And when I took that first bite, the contrast of the crispy, golden waffle exterior and the flavorful, slightly chewy interior was absolute perfection. It was like my taste buds were doing a little happy dance.
Why This Kimchi Scallion Waffles Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Kimchi Scallion Waffles
What makes this Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe so special? It’s all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is to incorporate the kimchi and scallions into the waffle batter, rather than just topping the waffles with them. This ensures that every bite is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. Plus, the melted butter in the batter adds a luxurious richness that takes these waffles to the next level.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these Kimchi Scallion Waffles, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the waffles, providing structure and texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: This helps the waffles rise and achieve that signature light and fluffy interior.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A simple seasoning that enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 eggs: Responsible for binding the batter and adding richness.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Provides the perfect amount of moisture for the waffles.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Adds a luxurious mouthfeel and helps create a crisp exterior.
- 1 cup chopped kimchi: The star of the show, bringing its signature tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions: The fresh, oniony notes of the scallions balance out the kimchi’s boldness.
Step-by-Step Kimchi Scallion Waffles Instructions
Preparing Your Kimchi Scallion Waffles
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, these Kimchi Scallion Waffles come together quickly. You’ll need a waffle iron, a mixing bowl, and a few basic kitchen tools to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your waffle iron to the desired temperature. While it’s heating up, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
2- In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs, then stir in the 1 1/2 cups of milk and the 1/4 cup of melted butter. Gently fold this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
3- Once the batter is just combined, fold in the 1 cup of chopped kimchi and the 1/2 cup of thinly sliced scallions. The key is to incorporate them evenly throughout the batter.
4- Grease your preheated waffle iron and scoop the batter onto the hot surface, using about 1/2 cup per waffle. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5- Carefully remove the cooked waffles from the iron and place them on a wire rack or baking sheet to keep them warm and crisp as you continue cooking the remaining batter.
6- Serve the Kimchi Scallion Waffles hot, garnished with additional sliced scallions if desired. They’re delicious on their own, but you can also enjoy them with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or your favorite savory toppings.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Kimchi Scallion Waffles turn out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Don’t overmix the batter – this can result in tough, chewy waffles. Gently fold in the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
- Use high-quality, flavorful kimchi for the best results. Avoid overly salty or fermented varieties, as they can overpower the other flavors.
- Slice the scallions thinly to ensure they disperse evenly throughout the batter. This will give you pops of fresh, oniony flavor in every bite.
- Grease the waffle iron thoroughly before cooking to prevent the waffles from sticking and ensure a crisp exterior.
Serving and Storing Your Kimchi Scallion Waffles
Perfect Pairings for Kimchi Scallion Waffles
These Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a delightful addition to any brunch or breakfast spread, serving 6 people. For a savory twist, try serving them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, or a drizzle of gochujang (Korean chili paste). They also pair beautifully with a refreshing fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Kimchi Scallion Waffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through and crispy. For longer-term storage, the waffles can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just let them cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between and store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Kimchi Scallion Waffles
Creative Kimchi Scallion Waffles Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe:
- Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or buckwheat flour for a heartier, nuttier flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.
- Fold in some diced bacon or chopped ham for a savory, protein-packed version.
- Top the waffles with a fried egg and a drizzle of gochujang-honey sauce for a delicious breakfast sandwich.
Making Kimchi Scallion Waffles Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more dietary-friendly, you can try the following substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
- To make the waffles vegan, substitute the eggs with flax or chia “eggs” (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and the milk with a plant-based milk of your choice.
- For a low-carb twist, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a keto-friendly flour blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought or homemade kimchi for this recipe?
A: Both store-bought and homemade kimchi will work great in this recipe. Just be sure to choose a high-quality kimchi with a flavor profile you enjoy.
Q: How long does it take to make the Kimchi Scallion Waffles?
A: The total time to make these waffles is 40 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make the Kimchi Scallion Waffles in advance?
A: Yes, the waffles can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just reheat them in the toaster or oven before serving.
Q: How many servings does this Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 6 servings of Kimchi Scallion Waffles.
Q: My waffles are sticking to the iron. What can I do?
A: Make sure to thoroughly grease the waffle iron before cooking. You can also try using a non-stick cooking spray or a light brushing of oil to prevent sticking.
Kimchi Scallion Waffles
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Elevate your breakfast with these savory and flavorful Kimchi Scallion Waffles. Packed with umami-rich kimchi and fresh scallions, this easy-to-make recipe is a delicious twist on classic waffles.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped kimchi
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the milk and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in the chopped kimchi and sliced scallions.
4. Preheat a waffle iron and grease it lightly. Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve the Kimchi Scallion Waffles warm, with additional kimchi, scallions, and your favorite toppings.
Notes
For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the batter. Leftover waffles can be frozen and reheated in the toaster or oven.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Tarts, Toasts & Flatbreads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Conclusion
There you have it – my go-to recipe for Kimchi Scallion Waffles. These flavor-packed beauties are the perfect way to shake up your weekend brunch routine. The combination of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes will have your taste buds singing with joy. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out in the comments below!