Pork · Japanese cuisine

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

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11 ingredients Cuisine: Japanese Page updated October 2026
Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

Photo: Nesnad, CC BY-SA 3.0

Okonomiyaki is a Japanese cabbage pancake whose name means "as you like it," and the recipe takes that literally. A simple flour and egg batter holds shredded cabbage and green onion together, while the filling is yours to choose: chicken, bacon or beef, with mozzarella if you want it stretchy. The finish matters most. Sweet-savory okonomiyaki sauce, powdered nori and bonito flakes that curl in the heat of the pancake turn a plain griddle cake into something memorable.

Instructions

Whisk the flour, water and eggs together until the batter is smooth. About 25 to 30 strokes with a spoon or whisk is enough, and you should stop there so the pancakes stay tender.

Gently fold in the sliced cabbage, green onions and cheese, keeping the cabbage in distinct strands rather than crushing it into the batter.

Heat a griddle or non-stick frying pan over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of oil.

Pour in ⅓ cup of batter and flatten it slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, until the underside is golden brown.

Scatter your chosen chicken, bacon or beef over the top and press the pieces lightly into the batter. Turn the pancake and fry for five minutes, or until the second side is golden brown.

Flip once more and cook for another minute with the topping side up.

Slide the pancake onto a plate and brush or spoon on okonomiyaki sauce. Finish with powdered nori and bonito flakes, using either or both.

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