Okonomiyaki Recipe

Okonomiyaki 101: The Ultimate Japanese Pancake Recipe You Need to Try Today

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Japan or simply want to bring a taste of its vibrant food culture to your kitchen, okonomiyaki is the perfect dish to start with. Often referred to as the "Japanese pancake," this savory delight is a staple in Japanese cuisine and an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this easy okonomiyaki recipe will become a favorite in your household.

As someone who’s always been fascinated by traditional Japanese food, learning to make okonomiyaki was a revelation. The first time I tried it, I was in a tiny Osaka street-side eatery, watching the chef expertly flip these golden pancakes on a sizzling griddle. The experience was unforgettable, and ever since, I’ve been recreating this magic at home. Let me guide you through this culinary journey with my tried-and-true recipe.

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What is Okonomiyaki?

The word "okonomiyaki" translates to "grill as you like it," which perfectly captures the essence of this dish. Unlike the sweet pancakes we’re used to in the West, okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and a variety of toppings. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—a true reflection of Japanese comfort food.

There are two main styles of okonomiyaki: Osaka-style and Hiroshima-style. Osaka’s version mixes all the ingredients into the batter, while Hiroshima’s layers them and often includes noodles. Both styles are equally delicious, but today we’ll focus on the simpler Osaka-style, which is perfect for beginners.

Ingredients for the Best Okonomiyaki Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make 4 servings of Osaka-style okonomiyaki:

For the Batter:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup dashi stock (or water with a dash of soy sauce)

2 large eggs

For the Filling:

4 cups finely shredded cabbage

1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced

8 slices of thinly sliced chicken breast or beef

Optional: shrimp, squid, or cheese

For the Toppings:

Okonomiyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Japanese mayonnaise

Bonito flakes (katsuobushi)

Aonori (seaweed flakes)

Pickled ginger (beni shoga)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter:

In a large bowl, mix the flour, dashi stock, and eggs until smooth. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.

2. Mix the Filling:

Fold the shredded cabbage and green onions into the batter. If using seafood or cheese, add them now.

3. Cook the Pancake:

Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and lightly oil it. Pour a quarter of the batter mixture into the pan, shaping it into a round pancake about 1 inch thick.

Lay two slices of chicken breast or beef on top. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes.

4. Add Toppings:

Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate. Drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise in a crisscross pattern. Sprinkle with bonito flakes, aonori, and pickled ginger.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve hot and watch as the bonito flakes dance from the heat of the pancake!

Must-Have Tools and Ingredients

To make the process even easier, here are three highly recommended products available on Amazon that I personally use in my kitchen:

1. Japanese Mandoline Slicer

A mandoline slicer is a game-changer for shredding cabbage quickly and evenly. The Benriner Japanese Mandoline Slicer is my go-to for its precision and durability.

Why You’ll Love It: Adjustable blades for different thicknesses and razor-sharp cutting.

Get yours here and save time in the kitchen!

2. Non-Stick Griddle Pan

A quality griddle pan ensures even cooking and makes flipping your okonomiyaki a breeze. The Cuisinart Double Burner Griddle is spacious and versatile.

Why You’ll Love It: Durable non-stick surface and large cooking area.

Upgrade your cookware with this versatile griddle!

Tips for Success

Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter isn’t too thick or too runny. Adjust with a little more dashi stock or flour if needed.

Cabbage Prep: Finely shred the cabbage for a tender texture that blends well with the batter.

Cooking Temperature: Medium heat is key to achieving a golden crust without burning the pancake.

Flipping Technique: Use two spatulas to flip the pancake gently to avoid breaking it.

Why Okonomiyaki is the Best Japanese Pancake

Okonomiyaki stands out not just for its flavor but for its versatility. It’s a simple, healthy dish packed with fresh cabbage and protein, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cooking project. Plus, the toppings allow for endless creativity.

Whether you stick to traditional ingredients or experiment with your own style, this Japanese pancake is a dish that truly lets your personality shine.

Pairing Okonomiyaki with Other Japanese Foods

To complete your meal, consider serving okonomiyaki with a bowl of miso soup, some pickled vegetables, or even a side of edamame. For drinks, green tea or a light Japanese beer pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.

Making okonomiyaki at home is not just about cooking; it’s about experiencing a slice of Japanese culture. This simple yet satisfying dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So why not gather your ingredients, fire up your griddle, and give this okonomiyaki recipe a try?

I’d love to hear about your okonomiyaki adventures! Share your creations and favorite toppings in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out the recommended products to make your cooking experience even better. Happy cooking!