Okonomiyaki (Savory Cabbage Pancake)

Mar 19, 2025
Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki, a Japanese-style savory pancake, translates to "whatever you like," meaning you can mix in your favorite vegetables and toppings to make it your own. This version is packed with crisp cabbage, sweet onions, and fragrant ginger, bound together with a light and crispy batter. Perfect for a quick meal or snack, these pancakes cook up golden brown on a griddle and pair beautifully with classic toppings like okonomiyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes.


Ingredients

Pancake

11 ounces (about 3 cups) shredded cabbage
3 ounces (about ½ cup) thinly sliced onion
0.5 ounces (about 1 tablespoon) chopped fresh ginger
¼ cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (30 grams) cornstarch
1 large egg
½ cup (120 ml) water or stock
2 tablespoons salt

Okonomi Sauce

¼ cup (60 ml) ketchup
1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
1 tablespoon (15 grams) honey (or substitute brown sugar)

Instructions

Shred the cabbage, thinly slice the onion, and finely chop the ginger. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, egg, salt, and water or stock until smooth and well combined.

Pour the batter over the vegetables and mix until evenly coated. The mixture should be thick but not too runny.

Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over high heat and lightly oil the surface.

Scoop portions of the batter onto the griddle, using a spatula to flatten each pancake slightly. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Remove from the griddle and serve immediately.

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, soy sauce, and honey until fully combined.

Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference. Drizzle over top of the pancake.


Serving Suggestions

  • Drizzle with okonomi sauce and Japanese mayo for a classic finish.
  • Top with bonito flakes, sesame seeds, or chopped scallions for extra flavor.
  • Add shredded carrots, corn, zucchini, or other vegetables to make it your own.
  • Top with a fried egg, chopped bacon, or shredded pork, to get some extra protein in!

Tip: These pancakes reheat well—just crisp them up in a pan over medium heat before serving!

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