I can still remember the first time I made Kimchi Scallion Waffles. It was a lazy Sunday morning, and I was craving something a little different for breakfast. I had a leftover jar of homemade kimchi in the fridge, and a bundle of fresh scallions just begging to be used. That’s when the idea struck – why not combine these bold, flavorful ingredients into a savory waffle?

I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical at first. Waffles are usually reserved for sweet toppings like maple syrup or fresh fruit. But the more I thought about it, the more intrigued I became. The tangy, spicy notes of the kimchi paired with the aromatic scallions – it had the makings of something truly unique and delicious.

So, I set to work in the kitchen, whipping up a batch of these Kimchi Scallion Waffles. From the first bite, I was hooked. The crispy, golden exterior gave way to a soft, fluffy interior, punctuated by pops of flavor from the kimchi and scallions. It was a revelation – a savory twist on a breakfast classic that quickly became a new go-to in our household.

Why This Kimchi Scallion Waffles Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Kimchi Scallion Waffles

The secret to making these Kimchi Scallion Waffles truly shine is all in the technique. By carefully balancing the wet and dry ingredients, you’ll achieve a light and airy waffle that perfectly showcases the bold flavors of the kimchi and scallions. And the key is to not overwork the batter – gently fold in the wet ingredients until just combined, which helps prevent the waffles from becoming dense or heavy.

Another trick is to let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the starches in the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a more tender and cohesive waffle. And be sure to preheat your waffle iron to the perfect temperature – not too hot, or the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through.

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 structure and base for the waffles, ensuring they hold their shape.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the waffles rise and become light and fluffy.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a bit of extra lift and tenderness to the waffles.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
  • 1 1/2 cups milk: The liquid that binds the batter together and creates the perfect waffle texture.
  • 2 eggs: Adds richness, structure, and helps the waffles achieve that crisp exterior.
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter: Contributes to the tender, moist interior and helps the waffles brown beautifully.
  • 1 cup chopped kimchi: The star of the show, providing a bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor profile.
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions: Adds a fresh, aromatic note that complements the kimchi perfectly.

Step-by-Step Kimchi Scallion Waffles Instructions

Preparing Your Kimchi Scallion Waffles

With a total preparation and cooking time of just 35 minutes, these Kimchi Scallion Waffles come together quickly and easily. You’ll need a waffle iron, a medium-sized mixing bowl, and a few simple kitchen tools to get started.

1- Begin by preheating your waffle iron to the desired temperature. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth and fully incorporated. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
3- Fold in the chopped kimchi and thinly sliced scallions, mixing just until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4- Grease your preheated waffle iron with a bit of non-stick cooking spray or oil. 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- Carefully remove the cooked waffles from the iron and place them on a wire rack or baking sheet to keep them warm and crisp while you cook the remaining batter.
6- Serve your Kimchi Scallion Waffles hot, with any desired toppings or accompaniments. Enjoy this savory breakfast delight with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Success

To ensure your Kimchi Scallion Waffles turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:

  1. Don’t overmix the batter – this can result in tough, dense waffles. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.
  2. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the starches to fully hydrate, leading to a lighter, more tender waffle.
  3. Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly and use a good quality non-stick cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Adjust the cooking time as needed, based on your specific waffle iron. The waffles should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, but still soft and fluffy on the inside.

Serving and Storing Your Kimchi Scallion Waffles

Perfect Pairings for Kimchi Scallion Waffles

These Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. For a satisfying breakfast, serve them with a fried or poached egg, a drizzle of sriracha or gochujang, and a sprinkle of chopped scallions. They also make a wonderful lunch or dinner, paired with a fresh green salad and a side of roasted vegetables.

If you’re looking to turn these waffles into more of a savory snack or appetizer, try topping them with a dollop of sour cream, a few slices of crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. They’d also be amazing alongside a bowl of steaming hot miso soup or a refreshing Asian-inspired slaw.

And don’t forget the beverages! These Kimchi Scallion Waffles pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a crisp glass of white wine, or a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Kimchi Scallion Waffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for a few minutes, until warm and crispy.

For longer-term storage, you can also freeze the cooked waffles. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the waffles to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop the frozen waffles directly into the toaster or oven until heated through.

If you want to get a head start on this recipe, you can actually make the batter up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the waffles. Give the batter a quick stir before scooping it onto the hot waffle iron.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Kimchi Scallion Waffles

Creative Kimchi Scallion Waffles Variations

While the classic Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try swapping out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat or gluten-free flour for a healthier twist. You could also experiment with different types of kimchi, such as radish kimchi or napa cabbage kimchi, to change up the flavor profile.

Another fun variation is to add some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to the batter for extra richness and melty goodness. Or, for a pop of color and crunch, fold in some finely chopped bell peppers or carrots.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try topping the cooked waffles with a fried egg, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a truly showstopping breakfast or brunch dish.

Making Kimchi Scallion Waffles Diet-Friendly

For those looking to enjoy these Kimchi Scallion Waffles while adhering to a specific dietary plan, there are plenty of easy substitutions and adaptations you can make.

To make them gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe, as gluten-free flours can behave differently than their wheat-based counterparts.

For a vegan version, replace the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and use a plant-based milk and melted vegan butter or oil in place of the dairy ingredients.

And for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a combination of almond flour and coconut flour. Just be sure to adjust the other dry ingredients accordingly to achieve the perfect waffle texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of kimchi besides the traditional cabbage variety?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of kimchi, such as radish, napa cabbage, or even baechu (Korean green) kimchi. Just make sure to use about 1 cup of the chopped kimchi, regardless of the variety.

Q: How long do these Kimchi Scallion Waffles take to make?
A: The total preparation and cooking time for this recipe is just 35 minutes. The waffles have a 15-minute prep time and a 20-minute cook time, for a total of 35 minutes from start to finish.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the batter up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the waffles. Be sure to give the batter a quick stir before scooping it onto the hot waffle iron.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Kimchi Scallion Waffles recipe yields 6 servings. The recipe calls for using about 1/2 cup of batter per waffle, which should result in approximately 12 waffles total.

Q: What should I do if my waffles are turning out soggy or not crisping up properly?
A: If your waffles are coming out soggy, there are a few things you can try:

  • Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated and hot enough before adding the batter.
  • Avoid overfilling the waffle iron, as too much batter can lead to a soggy interior.
  • If the waffles seem to be browning too quickly on the outside but still feel undercooked in the middle, try reducing the heat slightly.
  • Be sure not to overcrowd the waffle iron, as this can also prevent proper crisping.

Conclusion

These Kimchi Scallion Waffles are a true breakfast (or any-time) delight that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The bold, tangy flavors of the kimchi perfectly complement the aromatic scallions, creating a savory waffle that’s sure to become a new household favorite.

What are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the waffle iron, and get ready to indulge in the most delicious and unique waffles you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and let me know how you enjoyed this recipe. Bon appétit!