Okonomiyaki Recipe: Japanese Savory Pancakes

If you are a fan of Japanese cuisine, you have probably heard of Okonomiyaki. These savory pancakes are a staple in Japanese street food culture and are beloved for their versatility and delicious taste. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of Okonomiyaki, exploring its history, ingredients, and a step-by-step recipe that you can easily follow at home.

What is Okonomiyaki?

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and filled with a variety of ingredients. The word “Okonomiyaki” comes from the Japanese words “okonomi,” meaning “how you like” or “what you like,” and “yaki,” meaning “grilled” or “cooked.” This name perfectly captures the essence of the dish, as it can be customized with a wide range of toppings and fillings to suit your taste.

The History of Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki originated in Osaka during the early 20th century, but it has since spread throughout Japan and become a beloved dish in many regions. During World War II, rice was scarce, and people turned to more affordable ingredients like flour and cabbage to create hearty, filling meals. This led to the popularization of Okonomiyaki, which could be made with whatever ingredients were available.

Regional Variations

There are several regional variations of Okonomiyaki, with the two most famous being the Osaka style and the Hiroshima style. Osaka-style Okonomiyaki is made by mixing all the ingredients into the batter before cooking, while Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki involves layering the ingredients on top of the pancake as it cooks. Both styles are delicious, and you can choose the one that best suits your preference.

Ingredients for Okonomiyaki

To make Okonomiyaki, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup dashi stock or water
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup tenkasu (tempura scraps)
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced pork belly or bacon
• Okonomiyaki sauce
• Japanese mayonnaise
• Bonito flakes (katsuobushi)
• Aonori (seaweed flakes)

Step-by-Step Okonomiyaki Recipe

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to make delicious Okonomiyaki at home:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the flour and dashi stock (or water) and whisk until smooth. Add the eggs and mix well. The batter should be thick and smooth.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Fold in the shredded cabbage, chopped green onions, and tenkasu. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the batter.

Step 3: Cook the Okonomiyaki

Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil. Pour a portion of the batter onto the skillet and spread it out into a circle, about 1/2 inch thick. Place a few slices of pork belly or bacon on top of the pancake.

Step 4: Flip and Cook the Other Side

Cook the pancake for about 4-5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the pancake and cook the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the pork is cooked and the pancake is firm.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Transfer the cooked Okonomiyaki to a plate and brush the top with Okonomiyaki sauce. Drizzle Japanese mayonnaise over the sauce in a zigzag pattern. Sprinkle bonito flakes and aonori on top for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Making the Perfect Okonomiyaki

Here are some tips to help you make the best Okonomiyaki possible:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and green onions will give your Okonomiyaki a crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense pancake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Cook over medium heat: Cooking over medium heat ensures that the pancake cooks evenly without burning.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like shrimp, cheese, or kimchi to customize your Okonomiyaki.

Serving Suggestions

Okonomiyaki is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed rice or a bowl of miso soup for a complete meal. Pair it with a cold glass of Japanese beer or green tea for a truly authentic experience.

Conclusion

Okonomiyaki is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this savory pancake is sure to impress. With its rich history and endless customization options, Okonomiyaki is a true testament to the creativity and ingenuity of Japanese cuisine. We hope this recipe inspires you to try making Okonomiyaki at home and enjoy the flavors of Japan in your own kitchen.

For more Japanese recipes and cooking tips, be sure to check out our other blog posts. Happy cooking!