Go Back
Okonomiyaki Recipe

Okonomiyaki Recipe - Simple Easy Meals

Let me take you on a culinary adventure to Japan. Imagine the sun shining, streets bustling, and the sweet aroma of grilled dishes wafting through the air. That’s where I stumbled upon okonomiyaki. 
At first glance, it may look like a simple savory pancake. Yet, as you dig in, you find layers of rich taste and texture, a dish that welcomes a variety of ingredients. And the best part? You can easily recreate this dish right in your kitchen.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large eggs, lightly whisked
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger for a zesty kick
  • 11/4 cups thinly sliced green onions around 1 whole bunch
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil for nutty depth
  • 3 packed cups of finely shredded green cabbage approximately 1/2 of a medium head
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for light brushing or pan greasing
  • 1 cup panko-style breadcrumbs for crispy texture

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
  1. Start by shredding your cabbage finely. This is a crucial step because you want the cabbage to cook down and integrate into the batter. Use a sharp knife or a box grater. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl, and sprinkle it with salt. This draws out excess moisture, preventing your pancake from getting soggy.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
  1. Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together three eggs. Once they’re fluffy and well-combined, add the grated ginger and sesame oil. 
    Then, gradually incorporate the flour until you have a smooth batter. It shouldn’t be too thick; think of it as a pancake batter with character.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
  1. Now, fold the cabbage into your batter. Don’t forget to add the green onions at this stage. The mixture should be colorful and vibrant. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in any other ingredients you desire—cooked bacon, seasoned seafood, or even sweet corn.
Step 4: Cooking Time
  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a light drizzle of olive oil, ensuring that the entire surface is coated.
     Pour half of the batter into the skillet, forming a round pancake. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until it’s golden, then, flip it over using a large spatula. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until both sides are crispy. You can press it down gently to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Put on Toppings
  1. When it’s done, transfer the okonomiyaki to a plate. Drizzle some okonomiyaki sauce over the top, followed by a swirl of mayonnaise. You can finish with bonito flakes and a sprinkle of nori (seaweed) for that authentic touch.
Step 6: Enjoy!
  1. Slice it up, serve hot, and watch your friends and family dig in. That’s it—your homemade okonomiyaki experience is complete!

Notes

  • Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow each side to cook long enough to develop a crispy edge. Patience pays off here.
  • Experiment with Fillings: Try using different proteins or veggies to find your favorite combination.
  • Use a Cast Iron Skillet: This helps achieve even heat distribution, which is key for cooking the pancake thoroughly.
  • Adjust the Thickness: Depending on your preference, add more or less cabbage. If you prefer a thicker pancake, pack the cabbage in tighter.
  • Make it Ahead: You can prepare the batter in advance. Just avoid adding green onions until you’re ready to cook.