Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese dish that is often referred to as a "Japanese pancake" or "Japanese pizza." It is a savory pancake made with a variety of ingredients, including cabbage, flour, eggs, and various toppings. The word "okonomiyaki" translates to "grilled as you like it," which reflects the customizable nature of the dish. If you are curious about how to make okonomiyaki, then this article is for you.
How to make okonomiyaki?
To make okonomiyaki, you will need the following ingredients:- 2 cups of cabbage, thinly sliced- 1 cup of all-purpose flour- 1/2 cup of dashi stock (or substitute with water or vegetable stock)- 2 eggs- 1/4 cup of green onions, chopped- 1/4 cup of tenkasu (tempura scraps) or substitute with panko breadcrumbs- 1/4 cup of pickled ginger, chopped- 1/4 cup of bonito flakes- 1/4 cup of okonomiyaki sauce (or substitute with Worcestershire sauce)- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise- Optional toppings: sliced pork belly, shrimp, squid, cheese, etc.First, prepare the cabbage by slicing it thinly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, flour, dashi stock, eggs, green onions, tenkasu, and pickled ginger. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.Next, heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. If you are using sliced pork belly or other meat, cook it in the pan first until it is slightly browned and cooked through. Remove the meat from the pan and set it aside.Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil and spread it evenly. Pour a ladleful of the okonomiyaki batter onto the pan and use a spatula to shape it into a round pancake. If you are using additional toppings like shrimp or squid, place them on top of the batter at this point. Cook the okonomiyaki for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy.Once the okonomiyaki is cooked through, transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise over the top, and sprinkle with bonito flakes. You can also add additional toppings like cheese or more green onions if desired.Serve the okonomiyaki hot and enjoy!In conclusion, making okonomiyaki is a delicious and fun way to explore Japanese cuisine. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can create a flavorful and customizable dish that everyone will love. So why not give it a try and enjoy the taste of Japan from the comfort of your own kitchen?
