Okonomiyaki are Japanese savory pancakes that are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. These pancakes, known for their customizable fillings, are quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes. With a base of flour, eggs, and shredded vegetables, they can be filled with anything you like, making them a versatile and delicious meal for any occasion. Okonomiyaki are a staple in Japanese cuisine, offering a wonderful mix of savory goodness, and are sure to become a family favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup dashi stock (or water with dashi powder)

• 2 eggs

• 2 cups cabbage (finely shredded)

• 1/2 cup cooked pork belly (or any protein of your choice, optional)

• 1/4 cup spring onions (chopped)

• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Toppings:

• Okonomiyaki sauce (or Worcestershire sauce as a substitute)

• Mayonnaise (Japanese mayonnaise is preferred)

• Bonito flakes

• Seaweed flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, dashi stock (or water with dashi powder), and eggs. Whisk until smooth.

2. Add the Vegetables and Protein: Add shredded cabbage, spring onions, and any protein (like pork belly) to the batter and mix gently to combine.

3. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Pour about 1/2 cup of the batter onto the skillet, spreading it into a round shape. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.

4. Top with Sauces: Once cooked, transfer the okonomiyaki to a plate. Drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise. Sprinkle with bonito flakes and seaweed flakes for added flavor.

5. Serve: Cut into wedges and serve hot.

Nutrients

While the recipe doesn’t provide exact nutritional details, a typical serving can be estimated as follows:

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal per serving

• Fat: ~12g

• Carbohydrates: ~30g

• Protein: ~10g

• Sodium: ~600mg

• Fiber: ~2g

The Ingredients That Make Okonomiyaki Special

Okonomiyaki is known for its flexibility in terms of ingredients, making it a perfect dish to experiment with. The batter is the base of the pancake, consisting of all-purpose flour, dashi stock, and eggs, creating a smooth and slightly runny mixture. Dashi, a Japanese stock made from seaweed and bonito flakes, gives the batter its umami-rich flavor, but if you don’t have dashi on hand, you can easily substitute it with water and dashi powder.

The key vegetable in Okonomiyaki is cabbage, finely shredded to create texture and lightness in the pancake. The addition of spring onions gives the dish a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that balances the richness of the batter. Protein is optional, but many people choose to add cooked pork belly, shrimp, or even chicken to the pancake, making it a heartier meal.

Okonomiyaki also offers room for creativity. For instance, grated cheese can be incorporated into the batter for an extra creamy texture, and additional vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, can be added for more variety.

How to Prepare Okonomiyaki

Preparing Okonomiyaki is a simple process that involves just a few key steps. The batter is prepared by whisking together the flour, dashi stock (or water with dashi powder), and eggs until smooth. Once the batter is ready, the shredded cabbage, spring onions, and optional protein are gently folded into the mixture.

Next, the pancakes are cooked on a skillet or griddle. Heat the pan and add a small amount of vegetable oil to ensure the pancakes don’t stick. Once the pan is hot, pour a portion of the batter into the skillet, spreading it into a round shape. The pancakes are cooked for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy, then flipped to cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. The result is a golden, crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior that perfectly holds all the ingredients together.

Toppings to Elevate the Flavor

The toppings are what truly elevate Okonomiyaki to the next level. Traditionally, the pancakes are drizzled with okonomiyaki sauce, a thick, savory-sweet sauce similar to Worcestershire sauce. The sauce adds a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory pancake.

In addition to the sauce, a generous drizzle of Japanese mayonnaise is added, offering a creamy, tangy contrast to the pancake. Bonito flakes, which are dried fish shavings, are sprinkled over the top, creating a delicate umami flavor and a slight movement due to the heat of the pancake. For those who enjoy extra flavor, seaweed flakes can be sprinkled on top as well, adding a hint of oceanic freshness.

Customization and Variations

One of the most appealing aspects of Okonomiyaki is how customizable it is. You can adjust the fillings and toppings based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:

• Protein: While pork belly is a common addition, you can also use shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Vegetables: If you like more veggies in your Okonomiyaki, try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots. The possibilities are endless.

• Cheese: Adding grated cheese to the batter is a popular variation that makes the pancake even richer and creamier.

• Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, consider adding chili peppers or a dash of sriracha sauce to the batter or as a topping.

Health Considerations

Okonomiyaki is a balanced dish that provides a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. The cabbage offers fiber and vitamin C, while the eggs provide protein, and the dashi stock adds essential minerals. However, because Okonomiyaki is traditionally fried in oil and topped with sauces, it can be somewhat calorie-dense. To lighten the dish, you can reduce the oil used for frying or skip the cheese and mayonnaise, or use lighter alternatives.

Serving Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is best served immediately after cooking while it’s hot and crispy. The pancakes are typically cut into wedges, similar to a pizza, making it easy to share. Pair them with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. Okonomiyaki can also be enjoyed with a bowl of miso soup or steamed rice for a complete meal.

This dish is a fun, interactive meal for family or friends, allowing everyone to customize their pancakes with their favorite ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate meal, Okonomiyaki is sure to be a hit.

Conclusion

Okonomiyaki is a versatile and delicious dish that combines savory, crispy pancakes with a variety of fillings and toppings. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is easy to prepare and offers endless possibilities for customization. With a balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients, Okonomiyaki is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering with friends and family. The versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor make Okonomiyaki a dish that will surely become a family favorite.