How to Make the Perfect Savory Okonomiyaki
Japanese · Easy · 35 min · 2 servings
Okonomiyaki is a hearty Japanese savory pancake loaded with shredded cabbage and your choice of protein cooked on a griddle until golden and fluffy. It is finished with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce, Japanese mayonnaise, and bonito flakes for an unforgettable umami experience.
Why this recipe works
This Savory Okonomiyaki recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 35 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 22g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups green cabbage shredded
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 2 whole eggs
- 100 g bacon strips
- 3 tbsp okonomiyaki sauce
- 2 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Whisk together flour, eggs, and three quarters of a cup of cold water in a large bowl until a smooth batter forms. Fold in the shredded cabbage until every piece is well coated with batter. Do not overmix or the pancake will become tough.
Step 2: Cook the Pancake
Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour half the cabbage batter into the pan and shape it into a round pancake about two centimeters thick. Lay bacon strips across the top of the pancake and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
Step 3: Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully flip the okonomiyaki using a wide spatula so the bacon is now on the bottom. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until the pancake is cooked all the way through and the bacon is sizzling and caramelized on the bottom.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve
Slide the okonomiyaki onto a plate bacon side up. Drizzle generously with okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise in a zigzag pattern. Serve immediately while hot and add bonito flakes if available as a garnish.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- bacon strips → shrimp or squid for a seafood version popular in Osaka
- okonomiyaki sauce → a mix of worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and honey as a simple homemade version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Making the pancake too thick which results in an undercooked center
- Pressing down on the pancake with the spatula which squeezes out moisture and makes it dense
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 22g protein, 38g carbs, 18g fat, 4g fiber.
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