Dive into Deliciousness: Exploring Seafood Okonomiyaki

What is Okonomiyaki?

Okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, is often referred to as "Japanese pizza" due to its diverse toppings and flavors. Originating from the streets of Osaka and Hiroshima, this dish has captivated the hearts and stomachs of many food lovers worldwide. While both cities boast unique styles of preparation, the dish fundamentally revolves around a batter made of flour, cabbage, and various ingredients such as seafood, meat, and garnishes.

Osaka vs. Hiroshima: A Tale of Two Styles

When it comes to Okonomiyaki, the two predominant styles can be traced back to Osaka and Hiroshima. In **Osaka style**, the ingredients are mixed directly into the batter before cooking, resulting in a thicker, pancake-like texture. On the contrary, the **Hiroshima style** layers the ingredients instead of mixing them, leading to a pastry-like structure. This layering technique includes a base of batter topped with cabbage, seafood—like shrimp and squid—noodles, and more. Both styles have their charm, but today, we’ll focus on preparing a delectable seafood okonomiyaki, perfect for a family meal or a casual dinner with friends.

Ingredients You'll Need

To create a fantastic seafood okonomiyaki that pays homage to both styles, you’ll need some traditional ingredients. Here’s a quick list:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup dashi stock (or water with a bit of soy sauce)

• 3 cups finely chopped cabbage

• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup squid, cleaned and sliced

• 2 green onions, finely chopped

• Eggs (2 large)

• Okonomiyaki sauce

• Mayonnaise

• Bonito flakes and seaweed for garnish

• Optional: Aegoma (sesame oil) for frying

If you’re missing some traditional ingredients, don’t worry! You can substitute the dashi stock with chicken or vegetable broth, and the seafood can be swapped out with any protein you have on hand.

Cooking Your Seafood Okonomiyaki: Step-by-Step

Now that you have your ingredients, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and dashi stock until smooth.

2. Add in the chopped cabbage, green onions, shrimp, squid, and eggs. Mix well until everything is just combined.

3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a splash of sesame oil.

4. Pour in a portion of the batter (around 1 cup) and flatten it slightly.

5. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Repeat with the remaining batter.

7. Serve with okonomiyaki sauce, a drizzle of mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes and seaweed.

To make okonomiyaki sauce, start by combining equal parts ketchup and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Then, add a tablespoon of soy sauce, a tablespoon of mirin, and a teaspoon of sugar for a balance of flavors. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. For an extra kick, you may include a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Japanese mustard to enhance the flavor profile. Once mixed, let the sauce sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This homemade okonomiyaki sauce is perfect for drizzling over your savory pancakes, giving them a deliciously tangy and sweet finish. Enjoy your cooking!

Now you have a delicious seafood okonomiyaki that balances flavors and textures beautifully. Whether you fancy the Osaka or Hiroshima style, the versatility of this dish allows for plenty of delicious interpretations. Enjoy your culinary adventure!