The Best Homemade Okonomiyaki Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade okonomiyaki recipe is a fun, delicious way to bring Japanese flavors to your kitchen, and it’s easier than you think!
- Customizable – Pile on your favorite toppings, from shrimp to cheese, making it perfect for picky eaters.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Crispy & Fluffy – The golden edges and soft center create the perfect bite every time.
Recipe
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that combines a variety of ingredients in a flavorful batter, often topped with a tangy sauce and bonito flakes. This homemade version is simple to make and customizable to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup dashi stock (or water)
1 large egg
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups shredded cabbage
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup tempura scraps (optional)
4 strips of bacon (or thinly sliced pork belly)
Okonomiyaki sauce
Kewpie mayonnaise
Bonito flakes
Aonori (dried seaweed flakes)
Pickled ginger (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, dashi stock, egg, and salt until smooth.
- Add the shredded cabbage, green onions, and tempura scraps (if using) to the batter. Mix well.
- Heat a flat skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly oil it.
- Pour a portion of the batter onto the skillet, shaping it into a round pancake about 1/2-inch thick.
- Place 2 bacon strips (or pork belly slices) on top of the pancake. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the pancake is cooked through.
- Transfer the pancake to a plate. Drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and Kewpie mayonnaise.
- Sprinkle with bonito flakes, aonori, and pickled ginger (if using). Serve hot.
Notes:
- Customize the toppings and fillings by adding ingredients like shrimp, squid, or cheese.
- If dashi stock is unavailable, use water and add a pinch of MSG or a splash of soy sauce for flavor.
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Flat skillet or griddle
Spatula
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
Japanese
Serving:
Makes 2 medium-sized pancakes
Nutrition
Nutritional information may vary based on ingredients and serving size. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 50 mg |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my okonomiyaki with simple side dishes, like a crisp cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup, to balance out the savory flavors. When it comes to drinks, a cold glass of green tea or a light beer works perfectly to complement the meal. It’s all about finding combinations that make the whole experience feel complete.
Side Dish Ideas
Pairing the right side dishes with okonomiyaki can turn your meal into a full, satisfying experience. I love starting with a simple miso soup—it’s warm, comforting, and balances the savory pancake perfectly. A fresh cabbage salad with a tangy sesame dressing adds a nice crunch and lightness to the meal. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add some pickled vegetables, like daikon or cucumbers, for a zesty kick. Grilled yakitori skewers with chicken or veggies are another favorite; they bring a smoky flavor that complements the okonomiyaki. These sides create a well-rounded meal that feels complete and special every time.
Beverage Pairings
A cold glass of barley tea is my go-to when I’m digging into a plate of okonomiyaki—it’s revitalizing, light, and cuts through the richness of the pancake just right. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll pair it with a crisp, dry sake or a cold beer, which complements the savory flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a tangy yuzu soda or even plain sparkling water with a lemon wedge works wonders. Sometimes, I’ll switch it up with green tea, especially if I’ve added extra bonito flakes. Whatever you choose, keep it bracing—it balances the hearty, umami-packed dish perfectly.
