Okonomiyaki: A Delicious Japanese Savory Pancake

Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake often referred to as "Japanese pizza" due to its wide array of toppings. The name "okonomiyaki" is derived from the words "**okonomi**" meaning "how you like" or "what you like," and "**yaki**" meaning "cooked" or "grilled." This versatile dish serves as a wonderful main course or a delightful snack, perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup all-purpose flour- 2/3 cup dashi or water- 2 large eggs- 4 cups finely chopped cabbage- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions- 1/2 cup grated yam or potato (optional)- 2-3 slices of thinly sliced pork belly or bacon- 1/4 cup tempura scraps (tenkasu) or crushed rice crackers- 1/4 cup pickled ginger (beni shoga)- Vegetable oil for frying

For Topping:

- Okonomiyaki sauce (or a mixture of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce)- Japanese mayonnaise- Aonori (dried seaweed flakes)- Bonito flakes (katsuobushi)- Additional green onions or pickled ginger

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Batter:** 1. In a large mixing bowl, blend the all-purpose flour and dashi or water until smooth. 2. Beat in the eggs, ensuring the mixture is well-combined. 3. If using, grate the yam or potato and add it to the batter for extra stickiness and flavor.

2. **Incorporate the Vegetables:** 1. Add in the chopped cabbage, green onions, tempura scraps, and pickled ginger. 2. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the batter.

3. **Cook the Okonomiyaki:** 1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of vegetable oil. 2. Pour a ladleful of the batter and vegetable mixture into the skillet forming a thick pancake. 3. Place 2-3 slices of pork belly or bacon on top of the pancake. 4. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then carefully flip the pancake.

4. **Finish and Serve:** 1. Continue cooking the other side for another 4-5 minutes until both sides are crispy and the pork is fully cooked. 2. Transfer the okonomiyaki to a serving plate. 3. Generously drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise. 4. Garnish with aonori, bonito flakes, additional green onions, or pickled ginger to your liking.

5. **Enjoy:** 1. Serve the okonomiyaki hot, sliced into quarters for easy eating. 2. Enjoy this hearty, customizable dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Make your okonomiyaki extra special by experimenting with various fillings and toppings, like adding shrimp, cheese, or even kimchi. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a Japanese meal, okonomiyaki is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire.