Okonomi Yaki

Okonomi Yaki Recipe - Vegetarian Japanese Dish with Cabbage, Carrot, Onion, and Celery

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Okonomi Yaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake that is customizable with various ingredients. It is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

History

Okonomi Yaki originated in Osaka, Japan, and is a popular street food dish that can be found in many restaurants and food stalls throughout the country. The name "Okonomi Yaki" translates to "grilled as you like it," highlighting the customizable nature of the dish.

Ingredients

0.5 small green cabbage, shredded (approximately 3-4 cups, red, green or Chinese)
1 large carrot, shredded
0.5 onion, diced
3 stalks celery, minced
2 cups whole-wheat flour or white flour (you may need a bit more)
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp salt
1 (10 oz (283 g)) can evaporated milk
enough water, to make a batter
0.5 cup leftover meat (optional) or chicken (optional) or (optional)

How to prepare

Mix the vegetables together.
Combine the remaining ingredients to create a smooth, pourable batter.
Add the vegetables to the batter. The mixture should have a consistency that allows you to spoon it onto a skillet. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding either water or flour.
Heat a skillet sprayed with oil over medium heat.
Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the skillet, approximately 3 tbsp per patty.
Cook until browned on one side, then flip and brown the other side.
Serve hot or cold.

Variations

Add cooked shrimp or pork to the pancake for a protein boost.
Use different vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or bean sprouts for variety.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop or shred the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly in the pancake.

- Adjust the consistency of the batter as needed by adding more water or flour.

- Cook the pancake on medium heat to ensure it cooks through without burning.

Serving Suggestions

Okonomi Yaki can be served with a drizzle of okonomi sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Okonomi Yaki is cooked on a skillet or griddle, similar to a pancake. Make sure to cook it on medium heat to ensure it cooks through without burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can customize the ingredients in Okonomi Yaki based on your preferences. Feel free to add or omit any vegetables or proteins.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the batter and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time when cooking. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Okonomi Yaki on a plate garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Okonomi Yaki pairs well with a side of miso soup or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Okonomi Yaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Okonomi Yaki contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Okonomi Yaki contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Okonomi Yaki contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Okonomi Yaki contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Okonomi Yaki is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium from the vegetables used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (flour) and eggs.

Summary

Okonomi Yaki is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Okonomi Yaki is a delicious and customizable Japanese pancake that is easy to make at home. With a mix of vegetables, proteins, and a flavorful batter, it is a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of day.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in Japan. My mother had passed down her love for cooking to me, and I had always enjoyed experimenting with new recipes and flavors.

One day, I was walking through the bustling streets of Osaka when I stumbled upon a small, cozy restaurant that was bustling with patrons. The enticing aroma of sizzling meat and vegetables wafted out from the open door, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

As I sat down at a table near the grill, I watched in fascination as the chef expertly flipped and turned the ingredients with a pair of metal spatulas. He moved with a grace and precision that mesmerized me, and I knew that whatever he was cooking must be something special.

I struck up a conversation with the chef, a kind elderly man with a twinkle in his eye. He told me that he was making Okonomi Yaki, a traditional Japanese dish that was a favorite among locals. He explained that it was a savory pancake made with a batter of flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and various meats and vegetables, all cooked together on a hot griddle.

I was intrigued by the simplicity of the dish and the endless possibilities for customization. The chef told me that the name "Okonomi Yaki" loosely translated to "cook what you like," as each diner could choose their own ingredients to create a personalized version of the dish.

I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make Okonomi Yaki for myself. The chef kindly shared his recipe with me, and I eagerly wrote it down in my notebook, savoring each word as if it were a precious treasure.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients and setting to work in my own kitchen. I mixed together the batter, chopped up an assortment of vegetables and meats, and heated up my trusty griddle.

As the fragrant aroma of the cooking Okonomi Yaki filled my home, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction wash over me. The dish turned out beautifully, with crispy edges and a gooey, flavorful center. I topped it with a generous drizzle of tangy Okonomi sauce and a sprinkling of bonito flakes, just like the chef had shown me.

I sat down at the table and took my first bite of the homemade Okonomi Yaki. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a symphony of umami and sweetness that danced across my taste buds. It was a revelation, a culinary masterpiece that I had created with my own two hands.

From that day forward, Okonomi Yaki became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and quiet nights at home when I craved a taste of Japan. Each time I cooked it, I thought of the kind chef who had shared his recipe with me, and I thanked him silently for sparking my love of this delicious dish.

Now, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of home, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to discover Okonomi Yaki. It is a recipe that has brought me joy, comfort, and connection to my roots, and I will always cherish the memories of that fateful day in Osaka when I first fell in love with this delectable dish.