If you love a dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with fresh, vibrant veggies, this Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These pancakes bring together shredded cabbage, crisp carrots, and green onions in a light, flavorful batter enhanced by toasted sesame oil and soy sauce. Whether you serve them for a snack, lunch, or a light dinner, these golden treats are easy to make, endlessly customizable, and downright addictive. Get ready for a kitchen adventure that results in a dish both comforting and exciting!

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, offering the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color to make these pancakes shine. From the crunchy cabbage to the savory soy sauce, every element comes together effortlessly.
- 2 extra-large eggs: These bind the batter and add richness to the pancakes.
- ½ cup water: Helps achieve the smooth, pourable batter consistency.
- 1½ tbsp soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth that brings the whole dish alive.
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Infuses a warm, nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect tender crust when cooked.
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage: The star ingredient, adding crunch and freshness.
- 1 carrot, grated: Contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 green onions, sliced: Offers a mild onion flavor and a pop of green.
- Optional add-ins (shrimp, shredded chicken, or cooked beef): For protein boosts and extra heartiness.
- Sriracha mayo (a mix of sriracha sauce and mayonnaise): Adds a creamy kick as a perfect finishing touch.
- Sesame seeds: Sprinkled on top for crunch and nuttiness.
- Additional sliced green onions: For garnish and freshness.
- Other options (hoisin sauce, toasted seaweed, fried egg, bonito flakes, pickled ginger, or kimchi): Elevate the flavor with your favorite toppings or sides.
How to Make Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the wet ingredients
Start by combining the eggs, water, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil in a large bowl. Whisking these together creates a savory, fragrant base that will soak into every shred of cabbage for amazing flavor.
Step 2: Mix in the flour
Next, slowly add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, whisking continuously until you get a smooth batter. This step is key for achieving the perfect pancake texture – not too thick, not too runny.
Step 3: Fold in the vegetables
Gently fold in the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced green onions. Make sure every piece is coated in the batter so the veggies cook evenly and stay moist on the inside while crisping up outside.
Step 4: Add optional proteins
If you want to boost nutrition and flavor, stir in shrimp, shredded chicken, or cooked beef at this stage. It turns these pancakes from a simple snack to a hearty, satisfying meal.
Step 5: Heat your skillet
Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of oil. This ensures your pancakes won’t stick and get that perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Form and cook the pancakes
Scoop about ¾ to 1 cup of the cabbage mixture onto the skillet, gently flattening it into roughly a 6-inch-wide pancake about ½ inch thick. The even thickness lets them cook through fully without burning.
Step 7: Cook until golden brown
Allow the pancakes to cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color and a crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender and flavorful.
Step 8: Repeat the process
Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding more oil to the pan as needed. Each pancake gets better as you find the rhythm of flipping just right!
Step 9: Add finishing touches
Once cooked, drizzle the pancakes generously with sriracha mayo, then sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. These little extras bring the dish to life and add layers of flavor.
Step 10: Serve and enjoy
Plate your savory cabbage pancakes while they’re hot, topped with any additional garnishes or sides you love. Each bite bursts with texture and umami goodness you’ll savor.
How to Serve Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe

Garnishes
The right garnishes can elevate your savory cabbage pancakes from simple comfort food to something truly special. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for crunch and brightness. For a spicy twist, drizzle sriracha mayo or even a little hoisin sauce for a sweet-savory balance.
Side Dishes
These pancakes pair beautifully with light, refreshing sides. Think kimchi for tang and spice, pickled ginger for a palate cleanser, or a crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A fried egg on top adds another layer of indulgence and protein.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by stacking the pancakes like mini savory cakes, layering with slaw or your favorite pickled veggies in between. You can also create a vibrant platter with multiple dipping sauces – from soy-based dips to chili oil – inviting everyone to customize their bites. It turns this humble dish into a fun, interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover savory cabbage pancakes are a real win for busy days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They hold their crunch quite well, especially if separated with parchment paper between layers.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead in a big batch, these pancakes freeze beautifully. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They keep for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the pancakes in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again. Microwaving is quick but can soften the texture. A toaster oven also works wonderfully to bring back that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I make this Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or rice flour. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and satisfying.
What protein options work best with this recipe?
Shrimp, shredded chicken, or cooked beef all work beautifully. You can also experiment with tofu or bacon for different flavor profiles, just make sure any protein added is cooked beforehand.
How do I keep the pancakes from falling apart?
Make sure the cabbage is shredded finely and well coated in the batter. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan so the pancakes cook evenly and hold together when flipped.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before cooking. Stir gently before using, as the cabbage may release some water.
What dipping sauces pair well with these pancakes?
Soy sauce-based dips, spicy mayo, hoisin sauce, or even a simple blend of rice vinegar and chili flakes complement these pancakes wonderfully and add an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s approachable to make, infinitely adaptable, and brings a fresh, crispy twist to your meal rotation. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making these pancakes over and over again because they truly hit the spot every time.
Print
Savory Cabbage Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 pancakes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
These Savory Cabbage Pancakes are a delightful fusion of crunchy cabbage, grated carrot, and green onions bound together in a flavorful batter with soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside, served with a spicy sriracha mayo and optional toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 extra-large eggs
- ½ cup water
- 1½ tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 carrot, grated
- 3 green onions, sliced
Optional Add-Ins
- Shrimp, shredded chicken, or cooked beef (quantity as desired)
Toppings & Sauces
- Sriracha mayo (a mix of sriracha sauce and mayonnaise, to taste)
- Sesame seeds
- Additional sliced green onions
- Other options: hoisin sauce, toasted seaweed, fried egg, bonito flakes, pickled ginger, or kimchi
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil until well combined.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the egg mixture and whisk until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Mix Vegetables: Fold the shredded green cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced green onions into the batter until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Add Proteins (Optional): If using, gently incorporate shrimp, shredded chicken, or cooked beef into the batter, mixing thoroughly.
- Heat Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the surface.
- Form Pancakes: Scoop about ¾ to 1 cup of the cabbage mixture onto the skillet, pressing it down gently to form a 6-inch diameter pancake about ½ inch thick.
- Cook Pancakes: Cook each pancake for 3-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes until cooked through.
- Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding more oil as needed to prevent sticking.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle the cooked pancakes with sriracha mayo and sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra sliced green onions.
- Serve: Add any additional toppings such as hoisin sauce, toasted seaweed, fried egg, bonito flakes, pickled ginger, or kimchi. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha mayo to control the heat level.
- Adding a variety of proteins makes these pancakes more filling and suitable for a complete meal.
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven until all batches are done.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings to customize flavors.

