Easy Okonomiyaki

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Introduction

Easy Okonomiyaki is a savory, satisfying dish that captures the essence of Japanese comfort food in the most deliciously simple way. This pancake-like creation is loaded with a perfect balance of shredded cabbage, tender pork, and a savory batter, all topped off with a tangy Okonomiyaki sauce and a sprinkle of bonito flakes. It’s a fun, customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a lively weekend gathering.

This dish holds a special place in my kitchen. I first made it when I was craving something hearty yet easy, and it quickly became a go-to. The beauty of Okonomiyaki is in its versatility; you can add almost any protein or vegetable you like, and it will still come out delicious. The rich sauce and the crispy edges of the pancake make each bite a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Easy Okonomiyaki is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a dish that’s filling, flavorful, and relatively quick to prepare. Whether you’re serving it with a side of miso soup or just enjoying it on its own, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with a full belly and a happy heart. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious, Easy Okonomiyaki is the one to try!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Casual get-togethers
  • A fun, customizable meal
  • Japanese cuisine lovers
  • Quick, hearty meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Customizable – You can choose your favorite fillings and toppings.
  • Quick & Easy – This version skips the complicated steps and uses simple ingredients.
  • Flavorful – The combination of savory okonomiyaki sauce, tangy mayonnaise, and crispy pancakes is irresistible.
  • One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly – Can easily be made vegetarian by skipping the meat and seafood.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 2-3 servings
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 calories

Ingredients

For the Okonomiyaki Batter

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage

Fillings & Toppings

  • ¼ cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional for protein)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon pickled ginger, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons okonomiyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (Japanese or regular)
  • 1 tablespoon bonito flakes (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon seaweed flakes (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Okonomiyaki Sauce – This savory, tangy sauce is key to the dish’s flavor. It’s similar to Worcestershire sauce but with a slightly sweeter taste.
  • Shredded Cabbage – Provides crunch and freshness to balance the pancake.
  • Bonito Flakes – Adds umami and a traditional topping, although it’s optional.
  • Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil – These ingredients provide a base flavor and aromatic depth to the batter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Batter

  1. Make the Batter – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, eggs, rice vinegar, baking powder, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth.
  2. Add the Cabbage – Stir in the shredded cabbage, making sure it’s evenly coated with the batter.

Cook the Okonomiyaki

  1. Heat the Pan – Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with cooking oil.
  2. Pour the Batter – Scoop about a quarter of the batter into the skillet, spreading it into a round pancake shape (about 6-8 inches in diameter).
  3. Add Fillings – If using, add small pieces of chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the top of the pancake. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and pickled ginger.
  4. Cook the First Side – Let it cook for 4-5 minutes or until the edges begin to brown and the center starts to firm up.
  5. Flip the Okonomiyaki – Use a spatula to carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.

Serve & Garnish

  1. Top with Sauces – Drizzle okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise over the top of the pancake.
  2. Garnish – Optionally, sprinkle with bonito flakes, seaweed flakes, and more green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

How to Serve

  • Serve as a Main Dish – Pair with a light salad or miso soup for a complete meal.
  • With Steamed Rice – Serve alongside steamed white rice for a heartier meal.
  • Japanese-Inspired Dinner – Serve with other Japanese dishes like tempura, edamame, or gyoza.
  • Casual Meal – Slice into wedges for a casual and easy-to-share meal.

Additional Tips

  • Use a Non-Stick Skillet – This helps prevent the okonomiyaki from sticking and makes flipping easier.
  • Customize the Fillings – Feel free to experiment with other fillings, like mushrooms, zucchini, or even cheese.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook one pancake at a time for the best texture and even cooking.
  • Make it Spicy – Add some sriracha to the mayo for a spicy kick.
  • Be Careful When Flipping – Okonomiyaki can be fragile, so use a large spatula or two to flip it carefully.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegetarian Okonomiyaki – Skip the meat or seafood and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or bell peppers.
  2. Cheese Okonomiyaki – Add shredded cheese to the batter for a gooey, cheesy version.
  3. Spicy Okonomiyaki – Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the batter or sauce for some heat.
  4. Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki – Replace some of the cabbage with shredded sweet potato for added sweetness and texture.
  5. Vegan Okonomiyaki – Use a plant-based egg substitute and tofu for protein.
  6. Seafood Okonomiyaki – Add shrimp, squid, or fish fillets to the batter for a seafood twist.
  7. Mushroom Okonomiyaki – Use a mix of sautéed mushrooms like shiitake, cremini, or oyster mushrooms.
  8. Kimchi Okonomiyaki – Add chopped kimchi to the batter for a tangy, spicy version.
  9. Okonomiyaki Pizza – Flatten the pancake more to make a large pizza-sized okonomiyaki and cut into slices.
  10. Okonomiyaki Skewers – For a fun twist, thread mini okonomiyaki bites onto skewers and grill.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing Okonomiyaki – Once cooked, allow the pancakes to cool completely. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat by pan-frying or microwaving.
  • Storing Leftovers – Store leftover okonomiyaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
  • Prepping Ahead – You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Special Equipment

  1. Non-Stick Skillet – Ideal for cooking the pancakes without sticking.
  2. Spatula – Use a large, sturdy spatula for flipping the okonomiyaki.
  3. Whisk – For mixing the batter smoothly.
  4. Griddle (Optional) – If you have a large griddle, you can cook multiple okonomiyaki at once.
  5. Cutting Board & Knife – For chopping vegetables and fillings.
  6. Grater – To shred cabbage or other vegetables if you don’t have pre-shredded.
  7. Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure accurate measurements for the batter.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make Okonomiyaki without okonomiyaki sauce?
    Yes, you can substitute with a combination of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and soy sauce for a similar flavor.
  2. Can I use other vegetables in the batter?
    Absolutely! Try adding corn, mushrooms, or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
  3. How do I get the pancakes crispy?
    Make sure the pan is hot before adding the batter, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Let it cook undisturbed to achieve a crispy crust.
  4. Can I make Okonomiyaki ahead of time?
    It’s best to cook Okonomiyaki fresh, but you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to a day.
  5. Can I use a gluten-free flour substitute?
    Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Easy Okonomiyaki is a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish that brings the heart and soul of Japanese street food straight to your kitchen. With its savory pancake base, packed with crunchy vegetables and your choice of protein, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.

The beauty of Okonomiyaki lies in its versatility; just like a custom-made pizza, you can personalize the ingredients to suit your preferences, adding anything from bacon and shrimp to tofu and cheese. Whether you’re craving something hearty for dinner or a fun twist on lunch, Okonomiyaki has you covered.

This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s about bringing people together around the table, making it perfect for a shared meal with friends or family. With its quick prep and cook time, it’s ideal for those busy nights when you want something satisfying without the fuss. Try this Easy Okonomiyaki recipe today and discover why this iconic dish has such a special place in hearts and bellies across Japan..

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