Okonomiyaki is a traditional Japanese dish that combines various ingredients in a kind of savory pancake or pizza. Its name literally means "cooked to your liking," reflecting the great versatility in its preparations. Originating from the Kansai region, especially from Osaka, this dish has become popular throughout Japan and has transcended borders, adapting to different cultures and flavors.
In Latin America, although the name Okonomiyaki is maintained in most countries, in some places it is simply known as "Japanese pizza" due to its shape and the way it is consumed, similar to a traditional pizza but with ingredients native to Japan. This dish has gained popularity thanks to the boom of Asian cuisine and culinary fusion in the region.
Okonomiyaki presents itself as a perfect option for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, as it can be prepared with a wide variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meats, seafood, and different types of sauces, making each recipe a unique and personal experience.
How to prepare Okonomiyaki Japanese pizza
Ingredients: Nori, Ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Sake, Soy sauce, Eggs, Flour, Water, Salt, Cabbage, Carrot, Scallions, Vegetable oil, Shrimp, Mayonnaise.
Toast the nori by passing it over a flame until it hardens a bit, but be careful—it burns easily.
Crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Beat the eggs in a large bowl.
Add the flour and water and continue beating until you get a mixture with the consistency of pancake batter.
Add the sake and salt.
Incorporate the cabbage, carrots, and scallions.
Make sure to mix the batter with the vegetables well.
Each okonomiyaki will use 1/4 of this mixture.
Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a standard 10-inch skillet.
Place 1/4 of the mixture in the hot skillet, making sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.
Then sprinkle 1/4 of the shrimp or meat of your choice on top.
Cook each side over medium heat for 2 minutes, until lightly golden brown.
Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for another 5 minutes, occasionally flipping and gently pressing the okonomiyaki with a spatula.
Prepare three more okonomiyakis as indicated.
Keep the finished pancakes warm in a low oven while you make the rest, or use two skillets and prepare two okonomiyakis at a time.
Serve hot with the sauce to taste—I recommend 1 tablespoon per okonomiyaki—and top with about 1 teaspoon of mayonnaise and some toasted nori.
