Dish

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a popular dish in Japan that is often made at home or enjoyed at street food stalls. The batter is made with flour, eggs, and dashi (a type of fish stock), and then mixed with shredded cabbage and other ingredients. The mixture is then cooked on a griddle and topped with a variety of toppings such as mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, and bonito flakes. Okonomiyaki is a filling and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Asian cuisine› East Asian cuisine› Japanese cuisine

Pancake

Origins and history

Okonomiyaki originated in Osaka, Japan, in the 1930s, and it quickly became a popular street food throughout Japan. Today, it is enjoyed all over the world and is often served in Japanese restaurants. The dish is often associated with the Kansai region of Japan, but it is also popular in the Hiroshima region, where it is made with layers of ingredients instead of mixed together.

Dietary considerations

Okonomiyaki can be made with a variety of ingredients, so it can be adapted to suit different dietary needs. Vegetarians can omit the meat and seafood and add more vegetables, while those with gluten sensitivities can use gluten-free flour. However, the sauce used to top the dish often contains soy sauce, so those with soy allergies should avoid it.

Variations

There are many variations of okonomiyaki, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which is made with layers of ingredients instead of mixed together. Other variations include seafood okonomiyaki, which is made with shrimp, squid, and other seafood, and modan-yaki, which is made with noodles and other ingredients.

Presentation and garnishing

Okonomiyaki is often served on a hot plate or griddle, and it is topped with a variety of toppings such as mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, and bonito flakes. The dish is often garnished with green onions and pickled ginger.

Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect okonomiyaki, be sure to mix the batter well and cook it on a hot griddle. Use a spatula to press down on the pancake to ensure that it cooks evenly. When adding the toppings, be sure to spread them evenly over the pancake to ensure that each bite has a variety of flavors.

Side-dishes

Okonomiyaki is often served with a side of pickled ginger and a bowl of miso soup. It can also be served with a side of rice or noodles.

Drink pairings

Okonomiyaki pairs well with a variety of drinks, including beer, sake, and shochu. The savory flavors of the dish are complemented by the crispness of beer and the smoothness of sake and shochu.