Dish

Osaka-Style Okonomiyaki

Osaka-style okonomiyaki is made by mixing a thick batter with shredded cabbage, meat or seafood, and other ingredients. The batter is then cooked on a griddle or hot plate until golden brown. Osaka-style okonomiyaki is often served with a sweet and savory sauce, mayonnaise, and various toppings, such as sliced pork, shrimp, or squid. The dish is a popular street food in Japan, and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Asian cuisine› East Asian cuisine› Japanese cuisine

Pancake

Origins and history

Osaka-style okonomiyaki has been a part of Japanese cuisine for centuries. The dish is believed to have originated in the region of Osaka, in western Japan. Osaka-style okonomiyaki is a variation of the more traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which is made with a thinner batter and more toppings.

Dietary considerations

Suitable for vegetarians

Variations

There are many variations of Osaka-style okonomiyaki, depending on the region of Japan and the personal preferences of the cook. Some recipes call for the addition of different types of meat or seafood, while others use different types of vegetables, such as bean sprouts or carrots. Osaka-style okonomiyaki can also be made with different types of noodles, such as udon or soba.

Presentation and garnishing

When cooking the okonomiyaki, be sure to use a spatula to press down on the ingredients to ensure that they are cooked through. It is also important to cook the okonomiyaki over medium heat, to ensure that it is cooked through without burning on the outside. To make the dish more visually appealing, some cooks arrange the ingredients in a circular pattern on the griddle before adding the batter. The dish can also be garnished with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions.

Tips & Tricks

For a vegetarian version of Osaka-style okonomiyaki, omit the meat or seafood and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers. To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour or pancake mix for the batter.

Side-dishes

Osaka-style okonomiyaki is often served with a sweet and savory sauce, mayonnaise, and various toppings, such as sliced pork, shrimp, or squid. It pairs well with a cold glass of beer or a hot cup of green tea. Some popular side dishes include miso soup, edamame, and pickled vegetables.