Easy Okonomiyaki Recipe

If you’re craving a deliciously savory, pancake-like treat that’s bursting with flavor and texture, look no further than this Easy Okonomiyaki recipe. This iconic Japanese street food combines a crispy, cabbage-packed batter with savory pork and a medley of vibrant toppings for a meal that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or a longtime fan, Easy Okonomiyaki is a fantastic dish to whip up any day of the week, bringing joy, warmth, and a little bit of crunch to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Okonomiyaki lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element, from the finely shredded cabbage to the luscious toppings, plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic taste you’ll love.

• All-purpose flour: The base of your batter, providing structure and a light, fluffy texture.
• Water or dashi stock: Liquid that brings moisture and a subtle umami kick when using dashi.
• Eggs: Bind the batter ingredients together and add richness.
• Finely shredded cabbage: Adds crunch, freshness, and volume to the pancake.
• Chopped green onions: Bring a bright, oniony lift that cuts through the richness.
• Tempura scraps (tenkasu) [optional]: Add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of texture.
• Thinly sliced pork belly or bacon: The savory topping that crisps beautifully while cooking.
• Seafood such as shrimp or squid [optional]: For a seaside twist that deepens the savory notes.
• Okonomiyaki sauce: A sweet-savory glaze that defines the dish.
• Japanese mayonnaise (preferably Kewpie): Creamy, tangy contrast to balance the sauce.
• Aonori (seaweed flakes): Sprinkle for an earthy, oceanic finish.
• Katsuobushi (bonito flakes): Thin, smoky flakes that dance on the hot pancake.
• Chopped green onions and pickled ginger: Final fresh and tangy accents to brighten every bite.

How to Make Easy Okonomiyaki

Step 1: Prepare the batter

Start by whisking together your all-purpose flour, water or dashi stock, and eggs in a large bowl until smooth and silky. This simple mixture serves as the canvas for your okonomiyaki, so getting a lump-free batter ensures a perfect texture in the end.

Step 2: Fold in the vegetables and tempura scraps

Next, gently fold in the finely shredded cabbage and chopped green onions. If you have tempura scraps on hand, sprinkle them in now for an added crunch surprise inside your pancake. The vegetables provide essential moisture and a fresh crunch that’s essential to the charm of Easy Okonomiyaki.

Step 3: Preheat and oil your pan

Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly coat it with oil. A hot pan is key to creating that golden crust on your pancake, so be patient as it heats up just right.

Step 4: Form and layer the pancake

Pour a generous portion of the batter into the pan, shaping it into a round pancake about half an inch thick. Then, artfully arrange 2-3 slices of your pork belly or bacon across the top. If you’re adding seafood, distribute it evenly to ensure every bite has a bit of ocean delight.

Step 5: Cook each side until golden and cooked through

Allow the pancake to cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes so the bottom crisps up beautifully. Flip carefully—not to lose any of those toppings—and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes until the meat is cooked and the pancake holds together with a firm, springy texture.

Step 6: Add your toppings and serve

Transfer your masterpiece to a plate and let the fun begin! Drizzle on a generous swirl of the luscious okonomiyaki sauce and creamy Japanese mayonnaise. Finish by sprinkling aonori, sticky katsuobushi flakes, chopped green onions, and bright pickled ginger. Serve immediately so the flavors and textures shine at their peak.

How to Serve Easy Okonomiyaki

Garnishes

Garnishes are what transform your Easy Okonomiyaki from simple to spectacular. The okonomiyaki sauce offers a sweet-savory punch, while Japanese mayonnaise adds a creamy tang that beautifully complements the crispy pork. A sprinkle of aonori and katsuobushi gives it that classic umami depth, while pickled ginger offers a refreshing, slightly spicy lift that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

Easy Okonomiyaki stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with light Japanese sides like miso soup, steamed rice, or a crunchy cucumber salad. Pickled vegetables or a refreshing seaweed salad also enhance the meal by adding contrasting textures and flavors, balancing the savory pancake.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to surprise your guests? Cut your okonomiyaki into bite-sized squares for a fun appetizer platter, or serve mini okonomiyaki as part of a Japanese street food spread. You can also customize toppings by adding cheese, spicy mayo, or even swapping pork for grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist. The possibilities with Easy Okonomiyaki are endless and deliciously satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which can be rare!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to two days, making for a convenient next-day snack or meal.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked okonomiyaki for longer storage, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze individual pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a sealed bag. This helps prevent sticking and preserves their shape and flavor well for up to a month.

Reheating

To bring leftover or frozen okonomiyaki back to life, gently reheat them in a hot skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the outside regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture just right, as it can make the pancake soggy.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Okonomiyaki vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the pork and seafood, and consider adding extra vegetables or tofu for protein. You can also use vegetarian okonomiyaki sauce alternatives or make your own to keep it fully plant-based.

What is the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour works perfectly for Easy Okonomiyaki because it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. You don’t need specialty flours to get the authentic texture.

Can I substitute the dashi stock with something else?

Yes, water works fine, but using dashi stock adds a an umami boost that elevates the flavor. If you don’t have dashi, you can also dissolve some instant dashi powder in water for convenience.

How do I keep the okonomiyaki from falling apart when flipping?

Make sure your batter is well mixed but not too runny, and let the pancake cook undisturbed until it’s firm enough to flip—about 4-5 minutes per side. Using a wide spatula helps support the pancake during flipping.

What can I use instead of okonomiyaki sauce?

If you don’t have okonomiyaki sauce, a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and soy sauce can mimic its sweet-savory flavor. Homemade sauces are easy to whip up and taste fantastic.

Final Thoughts

Easy Okonomiyaki is one of those dishes that invites you to get creative and enjoy every step of the cooking process, ending with a rewarding, savory meal that’s perfect any time you want something comforting and fun. I encourage you to try this recipe, personalize it to your liking, and maybe even share it with friends and family—because good food is always better together!

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