Beef Jeon

In Korea, it’s currently the Lunar New Year (Gujeong). One dish that is absolutely essential for the holiday table is Jeon (Korean savory pancakes). Among the many varieties, Beef Jeon (Yukjeon) is a favorite because it’s delicious and packed with protein.

In Korea, you can simply walk into any butcher shop and ask for “meat for Yukjeon,” and they will slice the beef to the perfect thickness. However, finding that specific cut can be quite a challenge here in the U.S.

That’s when I came up with a great alternative! I discovered that Shaved Beef, which is commonly found in American grocery stores for making Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, is the perfect substitute. It makes the cooking process so much easier, and the taste is fantastic.

Here is my special recipe for making simple, delicious Beef Jeon using shaved beef.

Yield: 2 Dozens

Short Korean Lesson

• SiEoMeoNi (시어머니) = Husband’s Mother (Mother-in-law)
• SiABeoJi (시아버지) = Husband’s Father (Father-in-law)

Video Instructions

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb Shaved Beef
• ¾ tsp Garlic Salt (Total for seasoning)
• 3 Eggs (3 Pinches of Salt)
• ¼ Cup All-Purpose Flour
• Some Cooking Oil for Frying
• ¼ Cup Green Onions, Finely Chopped
• 1 Tbsp Fresh Red Hot Pepper (Optional, for garnish)

Fried Onion Side Ingredients:

• 1 Cup Sweet Onion, Thinly Sliced
• 2 tsp Cooking Oil
• 2 tsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Sugar
• ½ tsp Sesame Seeds (Optional)

Directions

Prepare the Shaved Beef, which you can easily find at most local grocery stores.

Since shaved beef comes in irregular shapes, gently shape the meat into round circles (about 2 inches in diameter). Use 1 to 2 layers of beef to get the right thickness for Jeon.

Lay about 12 of your shaped beef circles on a tray.

Cover them with a sheet of paper towel.

Place another layer of 12 beef circles on top of the paper towel, and cover them with one more sheet. Gently press down with your hands to absorb any excess blood. This helps get rid of any strong beef smell for a cleaner taste.

Traditionally, people use salt and pepper, but I highly recommend using Garlic Salt. It adds a wonderful umami flavor and makes seasoning so much easier.

Sprinkle about ¾ tsp of garlic salt evenly over the 24 pieces of beef. You only need to season one side lightly.

Finely chop the green onions to get about ¼ cup. Slice the fresh red chili pepper into thin rings; you will need about 1 Tbsp.

Crack 3 eggs into a bowl and add 3 pinches of salt. Whisk well until smooth. Then, add the finely chopped green onions and gently stir to combine.

Spread about ¼ cup of flour on a flat plate. Gently coat each piece of beef with flour on both sides. Shake off any excess flour; a thin layer is best.

Dip the flour-coated beef into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully covered.

Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of cooking oil. Place the egg-coated beef into the heated pan.

If you like a bit of a spicy kick or a pop of color, place a slice of red hot pepper in the center of each piece while the egg is still wet.

Fry one side for about 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat. Once the bottom turns golden brown and the meat is cooked through, flip the Jeon over carefully. Fry the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes.

 

Bonus Recipe: Stir-fried Onions (The Perfect Side Dish)

I often pack this Beef Jeon in my kids’ lunchboxes. A side dish that pairs amazingly well with the savory, rich taste of the beef is Sweet Stir-fried Onions.

Slice 1 cup of sweet onion into thin strips.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add 2 tsp of cooking oil.
Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for about 1 minute until they start to soften.
Add 2 tsp of soy sauce and 1 tsp of sugar to the pan.
Continue to stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are fully cooked, soft, and slightly caramelized.
Finish by sprinkling some sesame seeds on top.

I really hope you give this easy and delicious Beef Jeon a try! It’s a perfect way to bring a taste of Korean tradition to your table without all the hassle. If you make it, please leave a comment and let me know how it turned out. Happy Lunar New Year to you and your family!