Craving something unique and delicious? Look no further than okonomiyaki Singapore! This delightful Japanese dish, often referred to as “Japanese pancakes” or ” savoury pancakes,” has taken Singapore by storm with its scrumptious flavours and versatile ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore what okonomiyaki is, where to find the best spots in Singapore, and tips for making your own at home!
Key Takeaways
- Okonomiyaki is a savoury Japanese pancake made with flour, eggs, grated yam, and a variety of ingredients.
- This dish is highly customizable, allowing you to choose your favourite ingredients and toppings.
- Singapore boasts several fantastic restaurants and stalls serving authentic okonomiyaki.
- Making okonomiyaki at home can be a fun and rewarding experience for families and friends.
What is Okonomiyaki?
Originating from Osaka, okonomiyaki is a popular street food that has won hearts around the globe. Its name translates to “grilled as you like it,” reflecting the dish’s versatility. The basic batter consists of flour, eggs, and grated yam, combined with shredded cabbage. However, what sets okonomiyaki apart is the wide array of fillings and toppings you can add, such as seafood, pork, cheese, and even vegetables.
Once cooked, these pancakes are typically topped with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce (similar to Worcestershire sauce), mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed. The result is a flavour-packed dish that is both satisfying and delightful to eat.
Best Places to Enjoy Okonomiyaki in Singapore
Lucky for you, Singapore is home to numerous eateries serving mouth-watering okonomiyaki. Here are some of the top spots to satisfy your cravings:
- Kushikatsu Tanaka: Located in the bustling Orchard Road area, Kushikatsu Tanaka is famed for its delicious okonomiyaki. With a variety of options available, including seafood and pork, you’re sure to find something that tantalises your taste buds.
- Chibo: This restaurant, which originated from Osaka, brings authentic okonomiyaki to Singapore. With multiple locations, including one in the iconic Tanjong Pagar area, Chibo offers a range of traditional options made to perfection, right in front of you.
- Hokkaido Izakaya: For a slightly different take, Hokkaido Izakaya offers okonomiyaki alongside a full menu of Japanese dishes. Their unique flavour combinations, like the seafood okonomiyaki with fresh prawns and squid, are sure to leave you wanting more.
- Okonomiyaki House: Located in the heart of the city, Okonomiyaki House serves up delicious pancakes in a casual and vibrant setting. You can even try your hand at cooking your own – a fun activity for families and friends!
- Izakaya Shinjuku: This lively izakaya features a variety of Japanese dishes, including their famous okonomiyaki. The ingredients are fresh and plentiful, making it a great place to indulge in this savoury delight.
Making Okonomiyaki at Home
Feeling inspired to whip up your very own okonomiyaki? Making this Japanese pancake at home is easy and can be a fun activity for families or gatherings with friends. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of dashi (Japanese soup stock) or water
- 2 cups of finely shredded cabbage
- Your choice of fillings (pork, shrimp, squid, or vegetables)
- Okonomiyaki sauce (for drizzling)
- Japanese mayonnaise (for drizzling)
- Aonori (seaweed flakes) and bonito flakes (for topping)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and dashi (or water) until smooth.
- Add the shredded cabbage and your choice of fillings to the batter, stirring gently to combine.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and grease lightly.
- Pour half of the batter mixture into the skillet, forming a round pancake.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
- Once cooked, drizzle okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise on top, then sprinkle aonori and bonito flakes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
Okonomiyaki is a delightful Japanese dish that has found its place in Singapore’s diverse food scene. With its unique flavours, endless customisation options, and availability in various eateries, you’re never far from a great okonomiyaki experience. Whether you choose to indulge at a local restaurant or create your own masterpiece at home, okonomiyaki promises to satisfy your cravings. So gather your friends or family and embark on a delicious journey today!
FAQs
1. What is the best type of okonomiyaki to try?
The best type of okonomiyaki depends on your personal preference! Classic pork okonomiyaki and seafood okonomiyaki are popular choices, but many restaurants offer unique variations, so don’t hesitate to explore.
2. Is okonomiyaki suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, many places offer vegetarian options with plenty of vegetables and no meat or seafood. Always check the menu for specific vegetarian offerings.
3. Can I find gluten-free okonomiyaki in Singapore?
While traditional okonomiyaki contains flour, you can inquire at specific restaurants if they offer gluten-free alternatives, such as rice flour or special gluten-free batter.
4. How much does okonomiyaki typically cost in Singapore?
Prices vary depending on the restaurant but generally range from SGD 10 to SGD 20 for individual servings.
5. Is it common to cook your own okonomiyaki at the restaurant?
Yes! Some restaurants, especially those with a teppanyaki style, allow you to cook your own okonomiyaki at your table, making the experience even more interactive and fun.
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