Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes: A Simple Recipe for Delicious Japanese Comfort Food

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Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that bring a taste of Japan right to your kitchen. This savory dish, often referred to as a “Japanese pancake,” is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Originating from the streets of Osaka, okonomiyaki has a rich history as a comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. Its name translates to “grilled as you like it,” which perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this dish.

People love Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes for their satisfying combination of crispy edges and a soft, flavorful center. The convenience of whipping up these pancakes makes them a popular choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend brunches. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that is not only quick to prepare but also packed with umami goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these pancakes are sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes this Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup dashi stock (or water if unavailable)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
  • 1/2 cup cooked and chopped bacon or pork belly (optional)
  • 1/4 cup tenkasu (tempura scraps, optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Okonomiyaki sauce (for drizzling)
  • Japanese mayonnaise (for drizzling)
  • Bonito flakes (katsuobushi, for garnish)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • Nori (seaweed flakes, for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
  2. Gradually add 1 cup of dashi stock to the flour while whisking continuously. This will help prevent lumps from forming. If you don’t have dashi stock, you can use water, but dashi will give a more authentic flavor.
  3. Once the mixture is smooth, crack in 1 large egg and whisk until fully incorporated. The batter should be thick but pourable.
  4. Set the batter aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate, which will improve the texture of the pancakes.

Preparing the Vegetables and Add-ins

  1. While the batter is resting, prepare the vegetables. Finely shred 2 cups of cabbage and place it in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Chop 1/2 cup of green onions (scallions) and add them to the bowl with the cabbage.
  3. If you are using bacon or pork belly, chop it into small pieces. You can also use other proteins like shrimp or chicken if preferred. Add the chopped meat to the vegetable mixture.
  4. If you have tenkasu (tempura scraps), add 1/4 cup to the mixture for added texture and flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip this step.
  5. Season the vegetable mixture with a little salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.

Combining the Batter and Vegetables

  1. After the batter has rested, gently fold the vegetable mixture into the batter. Use a spatula to combine everything without overmixing; you want to keep the batter light and airy.
  2. The final mixture should be thick and chunky, with the vegetables evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Cooking Process

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers.
  2. Once the oil is hot, pour a ladleful of the batter mixture onto the skillet. Use the back of the ladle to spread it into a round pancake shape, about 6 inches in diameter. You can make them smaller or larger depending on your preference.
  3. Cook the pancake for about 4-5 minutes on one side, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. You can check by gently lifting the edge with a spatula.
  4. Once the bottom is cooked, carefully flip the pancake over using a spatula. Cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side until it is also golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the skillet as needed. You can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Assembling and Serving

  1. Once all the pancakes are cooked, it’s time to assemble and serve. Place each pancake on a serving plate.
  2. Drizzle okonomiyaki sauce generously over the top of each pancake. You can find this sauce in Asian grocery stores or online; it’s a sweet and savory sauce that’s Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes

    Conclusion:

    In summary, these Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that make them a must-try for anyone looking to explore Japanese cuisine. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, they offer a unique culinary experience that is both satisfying and versatile. You can serve them as a main dish, a side, or even as a fun appetizer for gatherings. For a twist, consider adding different proteins like shrimp or chicken, or even experimenting with various vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Don’t forget to top your pancakes with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce, a sprinkle of bonito flakes, and a dollop of mayonnaise for that authentic touch. Whether you enjoy them plain or loaded with toppings, these pancakes are sure to impress your family and friends. We encourage you to try this Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes recipe and share your experience with us! Your feedback and variations can inspire others to dive into this delicious dish. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and let the flavors of Japan come alive in your kitchen! Print
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    Easy Okonomiyaki Pancakes: A Simple Recipe for Delicious Japanese Comfort Food

    • Author: Maria
    • Total Time: 35 minutes
    • Yield: 4 servings
    Print Recipe

    Description

    Enjoy a taste of Japan with this savory Okonomiyaki, a delicious pancake filled with cabbage, green onions, and your choice of protein, all topped with a sweet and tangy sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. Perfect for a hearty meal or a fun snack!

    Ingredients

    • Okonomiyaki sauce
    • Japanese mayonnaise
    • Bonito flakes
    • Chopped green onions
    • Nori flakes
    • Cabbage
    • Green onions
    • Protein of choice (e.g., shrimp, cheese, kimchi)
    • All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)

    Instructions

    1. Drizzle Japanese mayonnaise over the pancakes in a crisscross pattern for added flavor and presentation.
    2. Garnish with bonito flakes, chopped green onions, and nori flakes if desired.
    3. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious homemade Okonomiyaki!

    Notes

    • Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences. Other popular additions include shrimp, cheese, or even kimchi.
    • Okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise can be found in most Asian grocery stores or online.
    • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes

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