Japanese food 101 - What you need to know - Top ten foods

pork belly

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: bacon

Chicken breast is leaner and bacon is often more accessible.

okonomiyaki sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce + ketchup

💰Cheaper: homemade sauce

Homemade sauce can be made from pantry staples.

tempura scraps

🥗Healthier: toasted breadcrumbs

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Both alternatives add crunch without the need for frying.

bonito flakes

🥗Healthier: smoked salmon

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Both provide a seafood flavor without the cost of bonito.

Mix all-purpose flour and water in a bowl until smooth

Add shredded cabbage, chopped green onions, and tempura scraps to the batter

Crack eggs into the mixture and stir until combined

Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat

Pour a ladleful of batter onto the griddle, forming a pancake

Place slices of pork belly on top of the pancake

Cook until the bottom is golden brown, about 4-5 minutes

Flip the pancake carefully and cook the other side until golden, another 4-5 minutes

Transfer the pancake to a plate and drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise

Sprinkle with seaweed flakes and bonito flakes before serving

Repeat with remaining batter and toppings

Serve hot with additional sauce on the side

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens