Crispy Vegetable Pancakes with Asian Dipping Sauce
Okay, let’s talk crispy, golden edges, tender veggie-packed centers, and a dipping sauce that brings the perfect tangy-salty kick. These Crispy Vegetable Pancakes are everything you didn’t know you were missing light, flavorful, and seriously addictive. They’re like a savory pancake meets a fritter, loaded with colorful vegetables and pan-fried to crunchy perfection. And that dipping sauce? Game-changer. It’s the kind of combo that turns an ordinary lunch into something fun and unforgettable.
Whether you’re whipping these up for brunch, a light dinner, or just a snack to share, trust me once you try them, they’re going straight into your weekly rotation.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Vegetable Pancakes with Asian Dipping Sauce
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: These pancakes can be a meal, a side, or a snack. Serve ’em solo or as part of a bigger feast they fit in anywhere.
Budget-Friendly: Made with everyday veggies and pantry staples, they’re as affordable as they are delicious.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, one bowl, one pan. You’ll be munching in no time.
Customizable: Use whatever veggies you have on hand this is a great clean-out-the-fridge recipe.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Crispy Vegetable Pancakes with Asian Dipping Sauce
Here’s the crunchy, colorful lineup:
Shredded Carrots: Sweet, vibrant, and full of texture.
Shredded Zucchini: Adds moisture and a delicate flavor make sure to squeeze out that extra liquid!
Chopped Green Onions: A mild, oniony bite that brightens up the mix.
Cabbage: Shredded thin for a crisp texture and slight sweetness when cooked.
Eggs: The binder that keeps it all together.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps hold the batter and adds a slight chew to the pancakes.
Soy Sauce: A touch of umami for that deep, savory flavor.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh aromatics that bring a punch of bold flavor to every bite.
Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, toasty finish to the pancake batter.
Vegetable Oil: For frying them to that irresistible golden brown.
Dipping Sauce (Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar, Sesame Oil, Chili Flakes, Honey): Sweet, salty, tangy, and just a touch spicy—this sauce is the perfect partner for your pancakes.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Preheat your non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. A hot pan = crispy edges!
Prepare the Vegetables
Shred, chop, and prep your veggies. Be sure to squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean towel or paper towels this step keeps the pancakes nice and crisp.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all the veggies, flour, eggs, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Mix until the batter is cohesive but not too wet.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Add vegetable oil to the hot skillet and let it heat until shimmering this helps you get that perfect crisp.
Assemble the Dish
Scoop the mixture into the pan in small mounds and gently flatten with a spatula. Don’t overcrowd the pan give them room to crisp!
Cook to Perfection
Fry each side for about 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and press down gently to ensure even cooking.
Finishing Touches
Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Repeat until all batter is used.
Serve and Enjoy
Whisk together your dipping sauce ingredients and serve the pancakes hot with a generous drizzle or dip on the side. Cue the crunch!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: 220–270
(Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Crispy Vegetable Pancakes with Asian Dipping Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with sticky rice or jasmine rice for a complete meal
- Add a fresh cucumber salad or pickled veggies for contrast
- Tuck them into lettuce wraps for a fun finger-food vibe
- Pair with miso soup or broth-based soup for a light but satisfying lunch
- Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra flair
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini it’s key to crispiness.
- Want them extra crispy? Use a bit of cornstarch in place of some flour.
- Make a big batch and freeze extras just reheat in a pan or oven.
- Mix up the veggies bell peppers, corn, or spinach all work great.
- Use a food processor to speed up your shredding if you’re making a big batch.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use other vegetables in the pancakes?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, sweet potato, and even corn can be added.
2. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour instead of all-purpose.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. How do I reheat them without getting soggy?
Reheat in a dry skillet or in the oven at 375°F until warm and crisp.
5. Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, though they won’t be as crispy bake at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. What’s the best oil for frying these?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil work best.
7. Can I make the dipping sauce spicier?
Definitely add more chili flakes or a dash of sriracha.
8. Are these kid-friendly?
Very! You can even omit the dipping sauce for picky eaters.
9. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, but cook it within a few hours for the best texture.
10. What’s a good protein to serve with these?
Grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or tofu make great companions.
Conclusion
These Crispy Vegetable Pancakes with Asian Dipping Sauce are one of those recipes you make once and then crave forever. They’re golden, crunchy, full of fresh flavor, and just plain fun to eat. Whether you’re making a batch for lunch, dinner, or sharing with friends, they always bring a little joy to the table. So grab those veggies and that skillet, and let’s get frying you’re going to love every bite.
Print
Crispy Vegetable Pancakes with Asian Dipping Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 small pancakes 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy vegetable pancakes are packed with colorful veggies and pan-fried to perfection, served with a savory Asian-style dipping sauce that brings everything together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or rice flour for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
Asian Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, water, soy sauce, and salt until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the batter over the vegetables and mix well to coat.
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly. Cook 2–3 pancakes at a time.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Repeat with remaining batter.
- For the dipping sauce, mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Serve pancakes warm with dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use a food processor to shred vegetables quickly.
- Add a pinch of baking powder to make pancakes fluffier.
- You can add chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra variety.
- Great as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pancakes
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: vegetable pancakes, crispy veggie fritters, Asian dipping sauce, savory pancakes, vegetarian appetizer