Dive into Deliciousness: Mastering the Art of Okonomiyaki – A Savory Japanese Pancake Adventure

Ingredients for Okonomiyaki

For the Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dashi stock (or water if you prefer)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For the Filling:

• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped cooked shrimp
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional for added sweetness)
• 1/4 cup tenkasu (tempura bits; optional for crunch)

For Cooking and Topping:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Okonomiyaki sauce (available in Asian markets or homemade; see recipe below)
• Kewpie mayonnaise (Japanese mayonnaise; regular mayonnaise can be used as an alternative)
• Aonori (dried seaweed flakes; optional)
• Bonito flakes (optional)

Homemade Okonomiyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Preparation Steps

Making the Batter:

1. Combine the flour and dashi stock in a large bowl, whisking until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps.
2. Add the egg, soy sauce, and sugar to the mixture. Continue to whisk until everything is well combined and the batter has a slightly thick consistency.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Add the shredded cabbage to the batter and mix well. The cabbage should be evenly coated.
2. Fold in the chopped shrimp, green onions, grated carrot (if using), and tenkasu. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients throughout the batter.

Cooking the Okonomiyaki:

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Ensure the oil is evenly spread across the surface.
2. Spoon a generous amount of batter onto the skillet, using a spatula to form a round pancake about 1/2 inch thick. You can make multiple smaller pancakes if preferred.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.

Preparing the Okonomiyaki Sauce:

1. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Transfer the cooked Okonomiyaki to a serving plate.
2. Drizzle with Okonomiyaki sauce and Kewpie mayonnaise in a crisscross pattern.
3. Sprinkle with aonori and bonito flakes, if using.
4. Serve immediately, and enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides or toppings!

Okonomiyaki is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings a taste of Japanese street food culture right into your kitchen. This savory pancake is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to customize with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The crispy edges, soft interior, and flavorful toppings make every bite a delightful surprise. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, Okonomiyaki is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy this culinary adventure and don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations. From changing up the fillings to playing with different sauces, Okonomiyaki is your canvas—create and savor every delicious masterpiece!

Disclaimer: The recipes shared on this blog are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. We do our best to ensure accuracy, but ingredient and preparation variations can alter results. Please use caution and consult a medical professional if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns. The blog and its authors are not liable for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the recipes provided. Always prioritize your health and safety when cooking.