Craving a quick trip to Asia without leaving your kitchen? The Asian pancake is the delicious, ultra-fast solution to satisfy your wanderlust. Whether it's Chinese, Korean, or Indian, this savoury flatbread caters to every craving with an incredible diversity of flavours and textures.
As product experts at Joybuy, our mission is to curate the very best of Asian groceries for you. This guide is designed to help you navigate the different options and choose the perfect pancake to delight your taste buds, even on the busiest of weeknights.
How to Choose the Right Savoury Asian Pancake
Before you fill your cart, here are a few points to consider to find the perfect product for you.
Which Flavour Profile: China, Korea, or India?
Each country has its own interpretation of the pancake, each with a distinct character.
- The Chinese scallion pancake (Cong You Bing): A must-try classic. Its finely layered dough offers a striking contrast between a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, chewy centre, all enhanced by the fresh aroma of scallions.
- The Korean kimchi pancake (Kimchijeon): For adventurous palates. Fermented kimchi, Korea's star ingredient, is mixed directly into the batter for a tangy, savoury, and incredibly flavourful result. A wildly popular frozen kimchijeon option.
- Vegetable kulcha: An Indian delight. This soft, pliable flatbread is generously stuffed with a mixture of vegetables and spices, making it a pure, comforting treat.
Pan-Fry or Reheat: Which Preparation Method to Choose?
For a quick Asian meal, every minute counts. Luckily, most options are ready in a flash.
- Pan-fry: These pancakes, often raw and frozen, are cooked directly in a pan from frozen. This is the ideal method for achieving maximum crispiness and a beautiful golden-brown colour.
- Reheat: Already pre-cooked, these versions just need a quick trip to the microwave, oven, or pan before they're ready to enjoy.
Check the Label: Ingredients and Allergens
To make an informed choice, it's always a good idea to take a quick look at the ingredient list, nutritional information, and allergens (wheat, soy, etc.). This ensures the product aligns with your tastes and dietary needs.
Our Selection of Asian Pancakes
Here are our top picks, chosen for their authentic flavours and ease of use.
Synear Scallion Pancake 450g
- Key features: This pancake perfectly follows the Chinese tradition with its layered dough, offering unbeatable crispiness on the outside while maintaining a soft centre. The fresh scallions provide that distinctive, delicious aroma.
- Why we love it:
- The flaky texture, both crispy and tender.
- Quick cooking from frozen, perfect for last-minute meals.
- Its versatility: delicious on its own or filled with an egg, cheese, or vegetables.
- Who is it for? Fans of authentic Chinese street food looking for an easy, customisable meal base. Ideal for a savoury brunch or a quick lunch.
ASHOKA Vegetable Pastry Pancake 320g
- Key features: This vegetable kulcha is a true taste of India. This traditional soft bread is generously stuffed with a flavourful mix of vegetables and spices, all without preservatives.
- Why we love it:
- The rich and spicy, typically Indian flavour.
- The ultra-simple preparation: already cooked, it just needs a few minutes to reheat.
- The perfect side for a curry or dal, or simply for dipping in chutney.
- Who is it for? Indian food lovers who want a more gourmet side than a simple naan, without any hassle.
SAONGWON Kimchi Pancake 300g
- Key features: This Korean kimchi pancake captures the full essence of kimchijeon. Made with real fermented kimchi, it delivers a complex flavour that is tangy, savoury, and just spicy enough to tantalize the taste buds.
- Why we love it:
- The authentic and bold Korean taste of kimchi.
- Its thin texture that becomes deliciously crispy in the pan.
- The quick preparation, ideal for an impromptu appetiser, a side dish, or a light meal.
- Who is it for? Lovers of Korean cuisine and anyone who isn't afraid of bold, fermented, and spicy flavours. Perfect for a unique appetiser or to spice up a Korean meal.
Want to Explore Other Flavours?
Our selection is just a taste. Many other hidden gems are waiting for you to discover.
? Discover our entire collection of frozen pancakes and crêpes to find your new favourite.
Frequently Asked Questions about Asian Pancakes
How do you cook a frozen Asian pancake?
It's incredibly simple! Most raw, frozen pancakes can be cooked without thawing. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat, then pan-fry the pancake for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it's crispy and cooked through. For pre-cooked versions, simply follow the package directions (microwave, oven, or pan).
What's the difference between a Korean pancake and a Chinese pancake?
It's all in the batter! The Chinese pancake (like Cong You Bing) is made with a dough that is stretched and folded multiple times to create a flaky, layered effect, often with scallions. The Korean pancake (Pajeon, Kimchijeon) is more like a thick crêpe: ingredients (kimchi, seafood, green onions...) are mixed into a liquid batter before being pan-fried.
Where can I buy frozen Asian pancakes online?
To buy frozen pancakes online and find authentic options, your best bet is to shop at a specialised Asian grocer like Joybuy. Our selection is much wider than what you'll find in standard supermarkets, guaranteeing you genuine Asian flavours for a quick and delicious Asian meal.
