Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that originated in the Kansai region of Japan, though it is popular across the country. The dish's name is derived from the words "okonomi," meaning "how you like," and "yaki," meaning "cooked" or "grilled." This versatile meal allows for a wide range of ingredients, making it accessible and adaptable for various tastes and preferences. Traditionally, it includes a basic batter combined with cabbage, and can be adorned with a variety of toppings such as meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Ingredients

• Flour
• Dashi
• Eggs
• Cabbage
• Green onions
• Tempura scraps (tenkasu)
• Bacon
• Pickled ginger
• Okonomiyaki sauce
• Mayonnaise
• Seaweed flakes (aonori)
• Bonito flakes (katsuobushi)
• Shrimp (optional)
• Pork belly (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by finely shredding the cabbage. Slice the green onions and chop the pickled ginger. If you choose to include additional proteins like shrimp or pork belly, ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with 2/3 cup of dashi to create a smooth batter. Beat in 2 eggs until the mixture is homogenous. Gently fold in the shredded cabbage, sliced green onions, a handful of tempura scraps, and a tablespoon of chopped pickled ginger.

Cooking Process

3. Cook the Okonomiyaki

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the skillet, spreading it out to form a circular pancake about 1/2 inch thick. Arrange slices of bacon across the top of the pancake. Cover the skillet and allow it to cook for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until the bottom is golden brown and the pancake is cooked through. You can measure the cooking time to ensure precise timing.

Optional Additions

If adding shrimp or pork belly, place these on the uncooked side before flipping the okonomiyaki.

4. Add Toppings

Once cooked, transfer the okonomiyaki to a plate and evenly spread a generous amount of okonomiyaki sauce over the surface. Drizzle with mayonnaise, and sprinkle with seaweed flakes and bonito flakes.

Enjoying Okonomiyaki

Traditionally, Okonomiyaki is served hot off the grill. For an authentic experience, consider cooking it directly on a teppan, a flat iron grill. When eating, it is best enjoyed sliced into wedges and served with chopsticks or a small spatula. Pairing it with a side of miso soup or a refreshing salad finishes the meal beautifully. Enjoy your homemade okonomiyaki, celebrating the art of cooking and eating as you like it!