For those who cherish the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine and the simple joy of home cooking, the Okonomiyaki bake offers an irresistible blend of tradition and innovation. Imagine the savory delight of traditional okonomiyaki—an iconic Japanese pancake—transformed into a comforting casserole that's perfect for sharing. With its rich umami profile, tender texture, and adaptable nature, this dish is poised to become a staple at your table.
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Okonomiyaki Bake
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📖Printable Recipe:
Okonomiyaki Bake
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 200 g 7 oz all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 4 cups cabbage shredded finely
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 tablespoon soy sauce
- 150 g 5 oz fish stock
Instructions
- Preheat the oven 200C/400F.
- In a large bowl whisk flour with baking powder, add 4 eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil and fish stock. Mix until lumps-free.1 teaspoon baking powder, 200 g 7 oz all-purpose flour, 4 eggs, ½ tablespoon sesame oil, 4 tablespoon soy sauce, 150 g 5 oz fish stock
- Combine batter with shredded cabbage and mix well. Transfer into a 10x10 inches baking pan and bake for 40-45 minutes.4 cups cabbage
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 200 g (7 oz) all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 4 cups cabbage, shredded finely
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 tablespoon soy sauce
- 150 g (5 oz) fish stock
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven 200C/400F.
In a large bowl whisk flour with baking powder, add 4 eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil and fish stock. Mix until lumps-free.
Combine batter with shredded cabbage and mix well. Transfer into a 10x10 inches baking pan and bake for 40-45 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Steamed Rice
A simple bowl of steamed rice pairs effortlessly with your Okonomiyaki bake, balancing its rich flavors while providing a neutral backdrop that allows the casserole to shine.
Crisp Cucumber Salad
Add a refreshing contrast to your meal with a crisp cucumber salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This side dish cleanses the palate between bites.
Miso Soup
For a more authentic Japanese meal, serve miso soup alongside your bake. Its warm, savory notes complement the umami-rich casserole, creating a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience.
Edamame Beans
Consider adding edamame beans, lightly salted and steamed, to your meal. They offer a nutritious and textural complement to your Okonomiyaki bake.
Traditional Japanese Pickles
Include traditional Japanese pickles like takuan or oshinko for a vibrant contrast. Their tangy, slightly sweet flavors enhance each bite of your Okonomiyaki bake, making the overall dining experience even more enjoyable.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Proper Cabbage Preparation
Finely shred your cabbage to ensure it cooks evenly and blends harmoniously with the batter. This ensures a consistent texture throughout the dish.
Balanced Ingredients
Strive for the right balance in your ingredients. Excess flour can lead to a heavy bake, while too little might cause it to crumble. Aim for just the right amount to maintain structure and fluffiness.
Achieving Smooth Batter
Mix your batter until it's smooth and free of lumps. This promotes an even flavor distribution, enhancing every bite with the harmonious taste of your combined ingredients.
Oven Preheating Essentials
Make sure to preheat your oven adequately. This step guarantees a perfectly golden crust on the outside, while preserving a moist and flavorful interior.
Personalizing with Toppings
Get creative with your toppings to add a personalized touch to your Okonomiyaki bake. Incorporate traditional toppings like Kewpie mayonnaise and bonito flakes for added authenticity, or mix in your favorite ingredients to tailor the dish to your unique taste.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
What is Okonomiyaki?
Originating from Osaka, Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake made with flour, eggs, cabbage, and a variety of other ingredients. Typically cooked on a hot griddle, it is a versatile dish often customized with different toppings and fillings, reflecting its name meaning "grilled as you like it."
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version, substitute fish stock with a vegetable broth and ensure your soy sauce is vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan adaptation, replace eggs with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer, and choose plant-based mayonnaise for topping.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Okonomiyaki bake can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Simply reheat it in the oven or a microwave before serving. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions and reheating them as needed for a quick meal.
Can I freeze the Okonomiyaki bake before cooking?
Yes, you can prepare the Okonomiyaki bake ahead of time and freeze it before baking. To do this, assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. When ready to cook, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, making sure to check for doneness as it might require a bit more cooking time than usual.
What can I use instead of cabbage in the recipe?
If you prefer to use an alternative to cabbage or simply wish to experiment, there are several other vegetables that can work well in an Okonomiyaki bake. Some options include shredded carrots, zucchini, or napa cabbage for a different flavor profile. Make sure to adjust the amount of flour or batter to maintain a good balance of moisture and structure in the bake.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! The Okonomiyaki bake is an excellent choice for meal prepping, as it holds up well over a few days when refrigerated. You can prepare the dish in advance, portion it into individual servings, and store in airtight containers. This way, you have a convenient and delicious meal ready to be reheated and enjoyed throughout the week.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If the Okonomiyaki Bake has piqued your interest in casserole dishes, there are countless other recipes to explore. From classics to inventive fusions, these one-dish meals offer endless possibilities for both novice and experienced cooks.
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