Fiery Scallop & Kimchi Pancakes: A Dance of Fire and Flavor

Calling all spice enthusiasts and Kimchi devotees! Let your taste buds tango with these Fiery Scallop & Kimchi Pancakes, a culinary fiesta where Korean heat meets meltingly tender scallops. Prepare to have your senses ignited!

Ingredients:

• For the pancakes:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup ice water
  • 1/4 cup cold milk
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon kimchi paste (or finely chopped kimchi)
  • 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green parts)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• For the scallops:
  • 1/2 pound bay scallops
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Pancake Power: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, ice water, milk, egg, kimchi paste (or chopped kimchi), soy sauce, ginger, gochugaru, black pepper, and salt until smooth. Stir in the chopped scallions.

1. Scallop Sizzle: In a separate bowl, toss the scallops with soy sauce, sesame oil, gochugaru, and black pepper. Set aside to marinate while you heat the oil.

1. Fiesta Time!: Heat half the oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake, swirling it slightly to form a thin round. Arrange marinated scallops on top of each pancake.

1. Golden Glow: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the pancakes are golden brown and the scallops are cooked through. You can peek under a pancake to check for doneness.

1. Flavor Finale: Drizzle with additional sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds (optional) for a final touch of flavor and crunch.

1. Dig In!: Serve these fiery beauties hot, straight from the pan, and prepare to be swept away by the dance of kimchi heat, tender scallops, and crispy pancakes. Each bite is a party in your mouth!

Tips:

• Adjust the amount of gochugaru to your desired level of spiciness. Start with less and add more to taste.

• If you don't have kimchi paste, you can finely chop fresh kimchi and use it in its place. Just remember, this might affect the consistency of the pancake batter slightly.

• Serve these pancakes with your favorite Korean dipping sauces, like soy sauce or gochujang (Korean chili paste), for an extra layer of flavor.

• These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also reheat them in a pan or toaster oven.

So, fire up your stove, gather your spice-loving friends, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these Fiery Scallop & Kimchi Pancakes. Just be warned: one bite might not be enough!