Okonomiyaki are Japanese savoury pancakes, packed with flavor and super easy to make! This quick dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it a great choice for any meal of the day. Known for its versatility, Okonomiyaki allows you to personalize the ingredients and toppings to suit your taste, from shredded cabbage and bacon to shrimp or cheese. Traditionally topped with okonomiyaki sauce and kewpie mayo, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 4 slices of bacon (fat and rind removed, substitute with pork belly)

• ⅔ cup plain flour (all-purpose flour)

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• ½ cup warm water

• 1 tsp dashi powder (dissolved in warm water)

• 3 eggs

• ¼ cabbage (shredded, about 300g)

• 1-2 spring onions (green onions, half for batter and half for garnish)

• ½ cup canned corn

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

Toppings:

• 2 tbsp kewpie mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp okonomiyaki sauce

• 1 tsp seaweed flakes (aonori)

• 1 tsp bonito flakes (katsuobushi)

• 1-2 spring onions (for garnish)

• Optional: pickled red ginger (beni shoga) and Japanese 7-spice (shichimi togarashi)

Directions

1. Cook the bacon: Fry the bacon until crispy, then set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the batter: In a jug, beat together the eggs and dashi powder dissolved in warm water. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch, then pour over the egg mixture. Stir to combine until smooth.

3. Add the fillings: Add the shredded cabbage, half the spring onions, cooked bacon, and corn into the batter. Mix gently to avoid over-mixing and keep the cabbage fluffy.

4. Cook the pancakes: Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add vegetable oil. Scoop the batter onto the pan, forming 4-inch wide pancakes. Cook for a few minutes on each side until lightly browned.

5. Serve: Transfer the pancakes to serving plates. Top with kewpie mayo, okonomiyaki sauce, aonori, bonito flakes, and extra spring onions. Optionally, add pickled ginger and 7-spice for added flavor.

Nutrients (estimated per serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 20g

  • Saturated Fat: 5g

• Cholesterol: 150mg

• Sodium: 500mg

• Potassium: 300mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 2g

• Vitamin A: 400 IU

• Vitamin C: 20mg

• Calcium: 60mg

• Iron: 2mg

The History and Origins of Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki originated in Osaka, Japan, and has since become one of the country’s most popular street foods. The name “Okonomiyaki” translates roughly to “as you like it,” highlighting the dish’s customizable nature. Historically, it evolved during World War II when ingredients were scarce. People started mixing flour, cabbage, and other available ingredients to make a filling, hearty meal. Over time, it became a staple in Japanese homes and restaurants, with regional variations emerging.

In Osaka, the pancake is traditionally made with a thinner batter and cooked on a griddle, while in Hiroshima, the pancakes are typically layered with noodles. Despite these regional differences, Okonomiyaki remains a favorite because of its simplicity and the opportunity it provides to experiment with various toppings and fillings.

How to Make Okonomiyaki: Step-by-Step Guide

Making Okonomiyaki is an easy process that comes together quickly. First, you’ll prepare the batter, which combines plain flour, cornstarch, eggs, dashi powder, and warm water to create a smooth, savory base. Dashi powder, a key ingredient in Japanese cuisine, adds an umami flavor to the pancake, making it even more delicious. After mixing the batter, you’ll add in shredded cabbage, spring onions, bacon, and corn. This mix creates a colorful, hearty filling that brings great texture and flavor to each pancake.

Once the batter is ready, heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil. Scoop the batter into the pan, forming small pancakes, and cook them for a few minutes on each side. The pancakes should be golden brown on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside. Cooking them for a few minutes on each side allows them to develop that crispy texture, which contrasts perfectly with the light, fluffy interior.

Customizing Your Okonomiyaki: Endless Possibilities

The beauty of Okonomiyaki lies in its customization options. You can tailor the ingredients to your preferences, whether you want to add more vegetables, meat, or seafood. Some popular variations include:

• Bacon and Shrimp Okonomiyaki: Add cooked shrimp alongside crispy bacon to create a seafood twist.

• Cheese Okonomiyaki: For cheese lovers, adding shredded cheese to the batter or melting some on top creates a gooey, savory pancake.

• Vegetarian Okonomiyaki: Skip the meat and opt for a mixture of mushrooms, tofu, or other veggies for a plant-based version.

• Pork Belly Okonomiyaki: Substitute bacon for tender slices of pork belly for a rich, indulgent variation.

This flexibility makes Okonomiyaki a fantastic dish for family meals or gatherings, as everyone can add their favorite toppings and fillings. It’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen and tailor the dish to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences.

Essential Toppings for Okonomiyaki

Toppings are what truly elevate Okonomiyaki, transforming it from a simple savory pancake into a flavorful experience. Traditionally, the pancake is topped with okonomiyaki sauce, a thick, tangy sauce that is similar to Worcestershire sauce but with a sweeter, more complex flavor. This sauce adds a rich, umami kick that ties together all the ingredients. If you can’t find okonomiyaki sauce, you can substitute with a mix of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, though the authentic flavor is unmatched.

Another signature topping is kewpie mayonnaise, a Japanese mayonnaise that is creamier and sweeter than its Western counterpart. It complements the savory pancake perfectly, adding a creamy richness that balances the tangy sauce. Seaweed flakes (aonori) are sprinkled over the top, adding a slightly salty and umami flavor, while bonito flakes (katsuobushi) provide a delicate, smoky flavor that makes the dish even more savory.

If you’re looking to add a bit of extra flavor and texture, try including pickled red ginger (beni shoga) for a tangy contrast, or Japanese 7-spice (shichimi togarashi) for a spicy kick. These toppings enhance the flavors and textures of the dish, providing layers of complexity in every bite.

The Nutritional Benefits of Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a relatively balanced dish, offering a combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The main ingredients—cabbage, eggs, and bacon—provide essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and protein. Cabbage, in particular, is rich in antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestive health.

The batter also contains flour and cornstarch, which provide carbohydrates, offering energy to fuel the body. If you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can use whole-wheat flour or reduce the amount of bacon. The addition of vegetables like corn, spring onions, and mushrooms boosts the fiber content and adds even more vitamins and minerals to the dish.

By choosing your toppings wisely, you can customize Okonomiyaki to fit various dietary needs. For example, if you’re aiming for a low-fat version, you can skip the mayo and reduce the amount of bacon used. Similarly, making a vegetarian version with tofu or extra vegetables can make the dish lower in fat and calories.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Okonomiyaki is a complete meal in itself, but it can also be served alongside other dishes for a more varied meal. It pairs wonderfully with a simple miso soup or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. The richness of the pancakes works well with a light and refreshing side dish to balance out the meal.

For an authentic Japanese experience, serve Okonomiyaki with steamed rice or alongside some pickled vegetables, such as pickled daikon radish or cucumber. These sides add texture and flavor to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal.

Conclusion: Why Okonomiyaki Should Be Your Go-To Dish

Okonomiyaki is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for anyone who loves savory, flavorful pancakes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, it’s easy to customize Okonomiyaki with your favorite fillings and toppings. The dish is quick to prepare and can be made with ingredients you likely already have at home, making it a perfect choice for any meal of the day.

Its flexibility, rich flavor, and simplicity make Okonomiyaki a go-to option in the kitchen. With endless variations and toppings, you’ll never get bored of this dish, and it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Try Okonomiyaki today and enjoy the ultimate savory pancake experience!