Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake filled with cabbage, cheese, and a fluffy batter, then topped with a rich okonomiyaki sauce and bonito flakes. This simple cheese and cabbage version is quick to make and perfect for a delicious homemade meal. Follow this step-by-step recipe for an easy and authentic okonomiyaki!
Okonomiyaki (Kansai-Style)
Difficulty: ★★★★☆1
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
- For the Batter:
1/8 head cabbage, finely chopped (about 1 cup, adjust to taste)
1 slice cheese, torn into small pieces (Substitute: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar for extra cheesiness)
1 egg
1/2 cup (120ml) water
3.5 oz (100g) okonomiyaki flour (Substitute: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour + 1/2 tsp baking powder + 1 tsp dashi powder (or vegetable broth powder) for umami flavor)
- For Cooking & Toppings:
Vegetable oil, for frying
Okonomiyaki sauce, to taste
(Substitute: Mix 2 tbsp ketchup + 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce + 1 tsp soy sauce + 1/2 tsp sugar for a homemade version)1 packet bonito flakes (katsuobushi) (Omit for a vegetarian version)
Directions
- Prepare the Cabbage & Cheese
Wash the cabbage and chop it into small pieces.
Tear the cheese slice into small chunks and set aside. - Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together egg, water, and okonomiyaki flour until smooth.
Add the chopped cabbage and cheese pieces to the batter and gently mix until combined. - Cook the Okonomiyaki
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a little oil.
Pour the batter into the pan, shaping it into a round pancake.
Cover with a lid and cook for 5 minutes on one side.
Flip the pancake, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it's ready! - Add the Toppings & Serve
Transfer the okonomiyaki to a plate.
Drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and sprinkle with bonito flakes (katsuobushi).
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- ✔ For a fluffier texture: Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking.
✔ For extra umami: Add 1/4 tsp dashi powder or use dashi instead of water in the batter.
✔ For a crispier pancake: Cook over medium-low heat for a longer time to ensure a crispy crust.
✔ For more toppings: Try mayonnaise, shredded nori, or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
✔ For a vegetarian version: Skip the bonito flakes and add shredded nori (seaweed flakes) or sesame seeds.