Dongnae Halmae Pajeon

Busan

Dongnae Halmae Pajeon

I go to Dongnae Market for the fun of eating pajeon.

Dongnae Halmae Pajeon, which uses only the inner stems of Joseon scallions, is a place that preserves the taste and history of Dongnae Pajeon.

Edit Danbee Bae

Photograph Yeseul Jun

In the past, there were many green onion fields around Mt. Geumjeong in Dongnae. Local residents used these green onions to prepare food, enjoying a type of scallion pancake called "Pajeon" (green onion pancake) made by finely chopping fresh seafood caught off the coast of Busanpo, placing it on top of the green onions, pouring in beaten eggs, and frying it until golden brown. This is the background story behind the birth of Dongnae Halmae Pajeon. Although originally a dish for the common people, it is said that the Magistrate of Dongnae even presented Dongnae Pajeon to the King as a tribute during the Joseon Dynasty. Dongnae Halmae Pajeon is a establishment that preserves the taste and history of Dongnae Pajeon. It has been in business for 70 years in the Dongnae region and for over 40 years at its current location, now run by the fourth generation. When you order, you can watch the pancake being grilled and fried right in the kitchen; you will immediately notice that it differs from the Pajeon we are familiar with in terms of size, shape, and cooking method. The most important ingredient, the green onion, is Joseon-style scallions, characterized by short stems and distinct white and green parts. Only the inner stalks are used, resulting in a tender flavor, and the taste and aroma vary each month. The dish is completed by mixing fresh seafood such as clams, shrimp, oysters, mussels, and shellfish with various grains to create a thick, porridge-like batter, frying it in rapeseed oil, and finally pouring in beaten eggs to cook it. Dongnae Halmae Pajeon, prepared with such care, is eaten with cho-gochujang (spicy chili paste) instead of soy sauce; the addition of this sweet and sour sauce offers a unique taste experience. The moment you take a bite, you will find yourself unable to stop using your chopsticks as the rich flavor of the seafood and the clean taste fill your mouth. Just as there is a saying that "people go to Dongnae Market for the joy of eating pajeon," Dongnae Halmae Pajeon serves as a hearty meal that carries on the history and taste of Busan with unwavering dedication.