Okonomiyaki, a traditional Japanese dish, is a savory pancake made with a base of shredded cabbage and a variety of other ingredients. The word “okonomiyaki” translates to “grilled as you like it,” which perfectly encapsulates the essence of this dish. While there are various regional variations of okonomiyaki throughout Japan, one thing remains constant – its deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup bonito flakes
• 1/4 cup tenkasu (tempura scraps)
• 1/4 cup pickled ginger
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup okonomi sauce
• 1/4 cup aonori (seaweed flakes)
• Oil for frying

Instructions

To make savory rice pancakes, follow these steps:

1. In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice, flour, water, and eggs until well combined.
2. Add shredded cabbage, green onions, bonito flakes, tenkasu, and pickled ginger to the mixture and stir gently.
3. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the pan to form pancake shapes and cook until golden brown on both sides.
5. Serve the rice pancakes topped with mayonnaise, okonomi sauce, aonori, and any additional toppings of your choice.

Variations

The beauty of okonomiyaki lies in its versatility. You can customize your savory rice pancakes with a variety of ingredients such as sliced pork, shrimp, squid, cheese, and even noodles. Each variation adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, making it a truly customizable culinary experience.

Conclusion

Savory rice pancakes, or okonomiyaki, are more than just a delicious dish – they are a reflection of Japanese culinary culture. The blend of flavors, textures, and ingredients in this dish come together to create a harmonious and satisfying meal that is enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, savory rice pancakes are a must-try dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.