Cabbage Pancakes, also known as Okonomiyaki, are a popular Japanese street food that blends savory flavors with a crispy texture. These pancakes are made primarily with shredded cabbage, mixed with a simple batter of flour, eggs, and water, and are often customized with additional toppings like bacon, shrimp, or green onions. Once cooked to golden perfection, they’re drizzled with tangy okonomiyaki sauce, creamy mayo, and sprinkled with bonito flakes and seaweed. The combination of flavors and textures makes these pancakes an irresistible, satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a fun snack.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp dashi powder (optional for authentic flavor)
- 4-6 slices of bacon or pork belly (optional for topping)
- Vegetable oil, for cooking
For Toppings:
- Okonomiyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Japanese mayonnaise
- Bonito flakes (optional)
- Dried seaweed (nori), finely chopped
- Pickled ginger (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, water, salt, and dashi powder (if using) to form a smooth batter. Gently fold in the shredded cabbage and green onions, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a little vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour a portion of the cabbage mixture into the skillet, spreading it into a round pancake shape (about 1/2 inch thick). If using bacon or pork belly, place a few slices on top of the pancake while it cooks.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side, then carefully flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until both sides are golden brown and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve with Toppings:
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and drizzle generously with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise. Sprinkle with bonito flakes, chopped seaweed, and pickled ginger for added flavor.
These Cabbage Pancakes (Okonomiyaki) are a savory, customizable dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they bring the delicious taste of Japanese street food to your kitchen!
