Okonomiyaki - The Japanese Savory Pancake

This savory pancake is a favorite among many Japanese because it provides a satisfying and hearty meal. Generally, there are three basic types of Okonomiyaki depending: Kansai, Hiroshima, and Tokyo.

1. Kansai Style

This is the most popular type of Okonomiyaki found throughout Japan. It is often prepared with various ingredients, such as green onions, pork, octopus, squid, shrimp, and assorted vegetables.

In Osaka, which is considered the birthplace of this dish, the pancake batter and ingredients are fried together to a golden brown on a griddle or teppan. Once completed, it is typically topped with Okonomiyaki sauce, dried seaweed flakes, bonito flakes, Japanese mayonnaise, and pickled red ginger (beni shoga).

2. Hiroshima Style

The difference with Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki is that the ingredients are not mixed together but are instead layered. What makes this style unique is the addition of various noodles like yakisoba or udon placed on top, along with fried eggs and plenty of okonomiyaki sauce. This dish can be enjoyed in two ways: either by grilling it yourself at a restaurant or having it prepared for you. To fully experience this culinary tradition, you should try grilling it yourself to appreciate the fun of preparing this dish.

1. Tokyo Style

Tokyo’s take on the traditional Okonomiyaki is often associated with Monjayaki, a dish characterized by a higher proportion of water and batter. Prior to adding water, people incorporate dashi and soy sauce into the batter to enhance the flavor and make the pancake softer. If you ever get the chance to try it, GoEMON recommends you head to Tsukishima Monja Street to savor the taste of this dish.

Okonomiyaki has many regional variations, so if you want to taste its authentic flavors, seek out renowned eateries or ask locals for recommendations. GoEMON hopes you have an amazing journey savoring various delicious dishes in the land of the rising sun!

Image: takochi5248, ayac.418, nanjotomoko,