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Okonomiyaki, The Original Japanese Pancake Recipe

Dive into Japanese tradition by savoring a dish that has made history through anime and manga: okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with vegetables, meat, seafood, and special sauces.
Recipe Okonomiyaki, The Original Japanese Pancake Recipe
  • Difficulty Medium
  • Preparation 15 minutes
  • Cooking 15 minutes
  • Servings for Serves 2

Ranma 1/2, Kiss Me Licia, and Nana are just some of the Japanese anime that brought Okonomiyaki into the spotlight. This type of Japanese Pancake, enriched with fish, meat, vegetables, and sauces, has managed to conquer the whole world with its complex flavor. Two cities claim to be the birthplace of this dish: Osaka and Hiroshima. The result is two preparations that share some aspects but differ in others.

We will show you how to prepare Homemade Okonomiyaki following the Original Japanese Recipe from Osaka, which is the most widespread version. This preparation differs from its “rival” city because the vegetables (Carrots, Cabbage) are all mixed into the batter made with Eggs and Flour. You can then add meat and fish according to your taste. The sliced Bacon, Shrimp, and the two signature sauces that give the dish its characteristic flavor are essential: Japanese Mayonnaise (available in Asian markets or can be substituted with regular mayonnaise mixed with rice vinegar and sugar) and Okonomiyaki Sauce, called Otafuku (can be found in Asian markets or substituted with a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, oyster sauce, and ketchup).

You can bring Japanese Cuisine into your homes with simple and tasty recipes. Try for example Sashimi, or the equivalent served with rice. The little ones will go crazy for the delicious rice balls stuffed with cooked fish.

Ingredients for Serves 2

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Method

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  1. To prepare Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake), start by cutting the cabbage into thin strips and julienne the carrot.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with flour, then add the freshly cut vegetables and finely sliced spring onion.
  3. Dissolve the stock cube in water and add this broth to the batter, giving it a quick final stir.
  4. Pour the batter into a well-oiled pan (maximum 8 inches/20 cm wide), cover and let it cook over medium heat for 5 minutes.
  5. Using a spatula, flip the Japanese pancake and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve garnished with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, bacon slices, and Katsuobushi flakes (dried bonito flakes that ‘dance’ from the heat). Finally, remember to download our App with exclusive content and fewer ads!

Variations and Alternatives

Okonomiyaki is considered a true street food in Japan, and there are countless versions depending not only on the region but also on the chef’s creativity. Feel free to customize the basic recipe according to your taste preferences – you’ll get something different every time!

Tips

Okonomiyaki sauce can be difficult to find outside of Japan. You can make a homemade version by mixing 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of honey.

Storage

Homemade Okonomiyaki is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat them in the oven or in a pan.

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