Sundays were always my favorite growing up. That’s when my mom would wake up early and fill the house with the most tantalizing aromas. The smell of freshly baked waffles would waft through the air, mingling with the salty-sweet scent of kimchi and the bright, grassy notes of scallions. I’d come running down the stairs, still in my pajamas, eager to dig into a stack of her Kimchi Scallion Waffles. The way the crisp, golden exterior gave way to the fluffy, flavor-packed interior was pure bliss. Those weekend mornings were some of the happiest memories of my childhood.
Now, as an adult, I find myself craving those nostalgic flavors more than ever. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe with you. It’s the perfect way to add a savory, umami-rich twist to your breakfast routine. Trust me, once you try these waffles, they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation.
Why This Kimchi Scallion Waffles Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Kimchi Scallion Waffles
The secret to these Kimchi Scallion Waffles is in the balance of flavors and textures. The addition of tangy, fermented kimchi and crisp scallions takes the classic waffle recipe to new heights. But it’s the way these ingredients work together that makes this dish truly special.
The kimchi adds a bold, spicy-sour punch that perfectly complements the rich, buttery waffles. And the scallions lend a refreshing crunch and mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness. It’s a symphony of tastes and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Kimchi Scallion Waffles, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This provides the sturdy base for the waffles, ensuring they have a nice, crisp exterior.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that gives the waffles their signature fluffy interior.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- 2 eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the tender texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Gives the waffles a decadent, buttery flavor and crisp edges.
- 1 cup chopped kimchi: The star ingredient that brings the perfect blend of spicy, sour, and savory notes.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions: Provides a fresh, oniony crunch to balance out the rich waffles.
Step-by-Step Kimchi Scallion Waffles Instructions
Preparing Your Kimchi Scallion Waffles
With a total time of just 25 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking), these Kimchi Scallion Waffles come together quickly. You’ll need a waffle iron, a large mixing bowl, and a few basic tools to get started.
1- Begin by preheating your waffle iron to the desired temperature. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and eggs together until fully incorporated. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until the batter comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough, dense waffles.
3- Once the batter is mixed, gently fold in the melted butter, chopped kimchi, and sliced scallions. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4- Grease your preheated waffle iron with a bit of cooking spray or melted butter. Scoop the batter onto the hot surface, using about 1/2 cup per waffle. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
5- Using a fork or tongs, carefully remove the cooked waffles from the iron and transfer them to a warm oven or a baking sheet in a single layer to keep them crisp while you cook the remaining batter.
6- Serve your Kimchi Scallion Waffles hot, with any additional toppings or sauces you desire. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and crisp textures in every bite.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Kimchi Scallion Waffles turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use room-temperature ingredients: Allowing your milk, eggs, and melted butter to come to room temperature before mixing will help the batter come together more easily and result in a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, dense waffles. Stir the ingredients just until they’re combined.
- Adjust cooking time based on your waffle iron: Different waffle makers may have varying cooking times, so keep an eye on your waffles and adjust the time as needed to achieve the perfect crisp exterior.
- Experiment with different kimchi varieties: Try different types of kimchi, such as cabbage, radish, or even a spicy version, to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Freeze leftovers for quick reheating: These Kimchi Scallion Waffles freeze beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Serving and Storing Your Kimchi Scallion Waffles
Perfect Pairings for Kimchi Scallion Waffles
These Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a delightful breakfast or brunch option, serving 6 people. For a truly satisfying meal, pair them with a refreshing green salad, some crispy bacon or sausage, and a tangy, probiotic-rich yogurt. A steaming cup of coffee or a zesty mimosa would also be the perfect accompaniment.
If you’re looking for a heartier dinner option, consider serving the Kimchi Scallion Waffles with a protein-packed dish, such as grilled chicken or a fried egg. The savory flavors of the waffles will complement the meal beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Kimchi Scallion Waffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster oven or preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re crisp and heated through.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cooked waffles for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the waffles cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper in between and place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the frozen waffles in the toaster or oven.
If you want to get a head start on your Kimchi Scallion Waffles, you can prepare the batter up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, give the batter a quick stir and follow the instructions as usual.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Kimchi Scallion Waffles
Creative Kimchi Scallion Waffles Variations
While the classic Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a real standout, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this savory dish:
- Swap in different types of kimchi: Try using spicy Korean kimchi, milder white kimchi, or even a kimchi-inspired sauerkraut for a unique twist.
- Add roasted vegetables: Roast up some mushrooms, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts and fold them into the batter for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Top with a fried egg: For a heartier meal, top your Kimchi Scallion Waffles with a perfectly runny fried egg.
- Drizzle with a gochujang sauce: This Korean chili paste adds a delicious, sweet-and-spicy kick to the waffles.
Making Kimchi Scallion Waffles Diet-Friendly
If you’re following a specific dietary plan, you can easily adapt this Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe to fit your needs:
For gluten-free Kimchi Scallion Waffles, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. This will ensure the waffles maintain their light and fluffy texture.
To make vegan Kimchi Scallion Waffles, replace the eggs with a flax or chia seed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and use plant-based milk and melted vegan butter or oil instead of the dairy products.
For a low-carb version, you can swap out up to half the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. This will reduce the overall carbohydrate content while still delivering that delicious Kimchi Scallion Waffle flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of flour besides all-purpose?
A: While all-purpose flour is the recommended choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other flours like whole wheat or even a 50/50 blend of all-purpose and whole wheat. Just keep in mind that the texture and rise of the waffles may be slightly different.
Q: How long do the Kimchi Scallion Waffles take to make?
A: The total time for this recipe is 25 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time. This makes it a quick and easy breakfast or brunch option.
Q: Can I make the Kimchi Scallion Waffle batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before cooking to incorporate any settled ingredients.
Q: How many servings does this Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 6 servings of Kimchi Scallion Waffles. If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make more.
Q: What should I do if my waffles aren’t turning out crispy?
A: If your Kimchi Scallion Waffles aren’t achieving the desired crisp texture, try making a few adjustments. Ensure your waffle iron is fully preheated, and consider adding a bit more melted butter to the batter. You can also try cooking the waffles a minute or two longer to help them crisp up.
Kimchi Scallion Waffles
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Elevate your breakfast with these Kimchi Scallion Waffles – a unique and tasty twist on a classic. Crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these waffles are packed with savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors for a truly delightful dining experience.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 2 eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted 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, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined (do not overmix).
4. Fold in the chopped kimchi and sliced scallions.
5. Preheat a waffle iron and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
6. Scoop the batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
7. Serve the Kimchi Scallion Waffles warm, with additional toppings like gochujang sauce, scallions, and kimchi if desired.
Notes
For a spicier version, increase the amount of kimchi used. You can also experiment with different types of kimchi to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Conclusion
These Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a flavor-packed revelation that will transform your breakfast or brunch routine. With their perfect balance of savory, spicy, and crisp textures, they’re sure to become a new family favorite.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the same joy I felt growing up with these waffles. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavor variations – the possibilities are endless! And be sure to let me know how your Kimchi Scallion Waffles turn out. I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations.
