Okonomiyaki, often hailed as Japan’s answer to the savoury pancake, is a dish that captures the essence of comfort food with a unique twist. Hailing from Osaka and Hiroshima, this delightful dish is a staple in Japanese households and street food markets alike. But what exactly makes this Japanese savoury pancake so special? Mastering the delicious Okonomiyaki recipe lies in its harmonious blend of textures and flavours, all combined to create a truly satisfying meal.
The term “Okonomiyaki” translates to “grill as you like,” and this flexibility is what sets it apart. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a meat enthusiast, or a vegetarian, this dish can be tailored to suit your palate. Imagine a hearty pancake filled with finely chopped cabbage, eggs, and grated yam, all brought together with a smooth, flavourful batter. It’s then cooked to golden perfection and topped with a rich, freshly made Okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes.
This Delicious Okonomiyaki Recipe will guide you through the process of creating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. With easy-to-follow steps and a focus on fresh, quality ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this iconic dish. From the foundational batter to the final touches, every aspect of this recipe is designed to bring out the best in each ingredient, resulting in a pancake that’s both light and flavourful.
So, if you’re looking to explore the rich world of Japanese cuisine, starting with Okonomiyaki is an excellent choice. Dive into this Delicious Okonomiyaki Recipe and experience the joy of crafting a dish that is both traditional and adaptable, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Here is the recipe and step by step instruction:
Delicious Okonomiyaki Recipe with Freshly made Okonomiyaki Sauce
Ingredients
- 200 g plain flour
- 200 ml water
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 head of cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 80 g thinly sliced pork belly or bacon
- Okonomiyaki sauce
- mayonnaise
- Oil for frying
For Okonomiyaki Sauce
- 4 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
Making the Okonomiyaki Sauce
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well until they are fully blended.
- Add the honey or sugar to the mixture, stirring until it dissolves completely. If you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, you can adjust the amount to taste.
- Pour in the oyster sauce and mix thoroughly. This will give the sauce a richer depth of flavour.
- If you're using Dijon mustard, add it now and stir until it's evenly distributed. This step is optional but adds a hint of tanginess to the sauce.
- Taste the sauce and adjust any of the ingredients to your liking. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness, more ketchup for sweetness, or more Worcestershire sauce for tang.
- Once you're satisfied with the taste, transfer the sauce toa small serving bowl or jar.
Making the Okonomiyaki
- Start by sifting plain flour into a large mixing bowl, ensuring a smooth and lump-free base. Gradually add water, whisking continuously to blend it seamlessly with the flour. Once you achieve a smooth mixture, crack in the eggs and beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs and mix well.
- Fold in the cabbage, one of the sliced spring onions, and the carrots until well combined.
Cook the Okonomiyaki
- Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Pour a quarter of the batter onto the pan, shaping it into a round pancake about 2cm thick.
- Place a few slices of pork belly or bacon on top of the pancake.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
Add the Toppings
- Once cooked, transfer the okonomiyaki to a serving plate.
- Brush the top with okonomiyaki sauce and drizzle with mayonnaise.
- Garnish with the remaining spring onion and pickled ginger if using.
Serve
- Serve hot and enjoy this delightful Japanese pancake with friends or family.
Notes
TipsÂ
Batter – The key to an ideal batter consistency lies in its thickness. It should be thick enough to hold its shape on a spoon but still fluid enough to pour easily. If it’s too thick, add a bit more dashi; if it’s too runny, incorporate a little more flour. A helpful tip is to let the batter rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, creating a cohesive mixture that enhances the pancake’s texture. During this time, the flavours meld together, making each bite incredibly delicious. Follow these steps meticulously, and you’ll have a batter that’s ready to transform into a mouth-watering Japanese savoury pancake. Pancake – To avoid common pitfalls, ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded, which can make flipping difficult and lead to uneven cooking. Maintain a medium heat to prevent burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. If you find the edges are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly and extend the cooking time. As the pancake cooks, you’ll notice the delightful aroma of the cabbage and dashi mingling, creating an irresistible scent that will have everyone eagerly waiting to tuck in.Nutrition
Serving suggestions
Presentation is key when serving Okonomiyaki. A drizzle of mayonnaise and a generous helping of freshly made Okonomiyaki sauce atop your pancake not only adds flavour but also visual appeal. For an authentic touch, sprinkle bonito flakes and a handful of chopped spring onions. Pair your creation with traditional Japanese side dishes such as edamame or miso soup. As for drinks, a chilled glass of green tea complements the dish wonderfully, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours.
To further enhance your dining experience, serve your Okonomiyaki on a hot plate to keep it warm throughout the meal. The heat intensifies the flavours, making each bite more enjoyable. Garnishing with pickled ginger or a squeeze of lemon can add a refreshing zing, balancing the savoury notes of the dish.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice blend) can add a delightful kick. Additionally, serving with a side of steamed rice can help to round out the meal, providing a satisfying and filling experience. Embrace the artistry of plating and let your creativity shine as you present this delicious Japanese savoury pancake to your delighted guests.
Customising Your Okonomiyaki
One of the best things about the Delicious Okonomiyaki Recipe is how easily it can be customised to fit your preferences. Whether you lean towards seafood, meat, or vegetarian options, there’s room for everyone at the Okonomiyaki table. Popular additions include succulent prawns, tender slices of pork belly, or even gooey cheese for an extra burst of indulgence.
If you have dietary restrictions, the recipe can be adapted without losing its charm. Swap regular flour for a gluten-free alternative or omit the eggs to make it vegan-friendly. The key is to experiment and find combinations that excite your taste buds.
Seasonal vegetables can also be a great addition. Think of thinly sliced mushrooms, sweet corn, or bell peppers to add a vibrant touch to your Japanese savoury pancake. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating finely chopped chillies or a dash of chilli powder into the batter.
The joy of this Delicious Okonomiyaki Recipe lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking a weeknight meal, customising your Okonomiyaki ensures that it will always be a delightful and personalised culinary experience.