Forget your maple syrup and blueberries; we’re heading to Japan for a pancake experience unlike any other: Okonomiyaki. Often described as a savory pancake or Japanese pizza, Okonomiyaki is a customizable and incredibly satisfying dish that’s particularly popular in the Kansai region, especially Osaka and Hiroshima.

The name itself gives you a hint of its nature: “okonomi” means “what you like” or “what you prefer,” and “yaki” means “grilled” or “cooked.” This perfectly encapsulates the essence of Okonomiyaki – it’s a dish where you have a lot of say in what goes in!

The base batter typically consists of flour, grated nagaimo (Japanese mountain yam, which gives it a light and fluffy texture), water or dashi (Japanese soup stock), and eggs. Shredded cabbage is almost always a key ingredient, providing a lovely sweetness and crunch. From there, the possibilities are endless! Popular additions include:

• Pork belly: Thinly sliced and crispy.
• Shrimp or squid: Adding a briny seafood flavor.
• Green onions: For a fresh, mild oniony bite.
• Tenkasu: Crispy bits of tempura batter, adding extra crunch.
• Cheese: For a melty, gooey indulgence.
• Mochi: Chewy rice cakes for a unique texture.

The way Okonomiyaki is cooked also adds to its appeal. The batter and ingredients are mixed together (or layered, in the Hiroshima style) and then grilled on a large flat griddle. Once cooked through, it’s generously topped with a variety of flavorful sauces:

• Okonomiyaki sauce: A sweet and savory sauce similar to Worcestershire sauce but thicker and sweeter.
• Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie): Richer and tangier than Western mayo.
• Aonori: Dried green seaweed flakes, adding a subtle ocean flavor.
• Katsuobushi: Thin shavings of dried bonito (fish), which dance and sway from the heat.
• Pickled ginger (beni shoga): For a refreshing and slightly spicy bite.

Eating Okonomiyaki is a social and interactive experience. Often, you’ll find restaurants where you can cook it yourself at a griddle built into your table, making it a fun and engaging meal with friends or family. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors – the slight crispness of the grilled surface, the soft and fluffy interior, the sweetness of the cabbage, the savory additions, and the umami-rich sauces. It’s a true comfort food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. So, next time you’re craving something unique and satisfying, give Okonomiyaki a try – your taste buds are in for a treat!