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Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き) is a fantastic Japanese savory pancake, and the “crispy noodle” version you’re referring to is a specific and delicious style, often called Modan-Yaki (モダン焼き) or Hiroshima-style when it includes noodles.
Let’s create a recipe that focuses on that delightful crispy noodle pancake base.
Sechiyaki? Let’s Call it Modan-Yaki: The Ultimate Japanese Crispy Noodle Pancake
This recipe creates a hearty, savory, umami-packed pancake layered with a crispy noodle base, a fluffy egg-and-cabbage batter, and your favorite proteins, all topped with a signature sweet & savory sauce.
Ingredients (Makes 2 large pancakes)
For the Batter:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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¾ cup dashi broth (or ice-cold water mixed with ½ tsp dashi powder)
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1 large egg
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½ tsp baking powder (optional, for a fluffier texture)
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¼ head of a medium cabbage (about ¼ lb or 200g), core removed and finely shredded
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2-3 green onions, finely chopped
For the Noodle Layer & Fillings:
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2 portions (about 200g) of fresh yakisoba noodles OR ramen noodles (loosened)
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2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
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4 slices of bacon or thin pork belly (optional)
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1 cup of your choice of additional fillings: shrimp, squid, corn, tenkasu (tempura bits), etc.
For the Signature Sauces & Toppings:
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Okonomiyaki Sauce: (or use store-bought Bull-Dog sauce or Otafuku sauce)
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp soy sauce
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1 tsp mirin or sugar
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Japanese Mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo is best)
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Aonori (dried green seaweed flakes)
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Katsuobushi (bonito flakes)
Instructions
1. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, dashi broth, and egg until just combined. A few lumps are okay; do not overmix. Stir in the shredded cabbage and green onions until everything is evenly coated. This creates a thick, chunky batter.
2. Prepare the Sauces:
If making your own okonomiyaki sauce, mix the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and mirin in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Cook the Noodle Base (This is the Key Step!):
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a medium non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
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Place one portion of noodles in the skillet, spreading them out into a flat, even circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
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Let the noodles cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the bottom becomes golden brown and crispy. This is the foundation for your crispy base.
4. Build the Pancake:
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Once the noodles are crispy on one side, carefully pour half of the cabbage batter directly on top of the noodle circle.
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Use a spatula to shape the batter into a round pancake, about ¾-inch thick, ensuring it covers the noodles.
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If using bacon/pork, lay 2 slices on top of the batter.
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Add any other fillings (shrimp, etc.) by pressing them gently into the batter.
5. Cook and Flip:
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Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 4-5 minutes. This steams the cabbage, helping it cook through.
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After 4-5 minutes, the edges should look set. Carefully slide a wide, flexible spatula underneath the entire pancake. With confidence, flip it over. It’s heavy, so use two hands if needed.
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Cook uncovered for another 4-5 minutes, pressing down gently with the spatula, until the second side is golden brown and the bacon is crispy.
6. The Final Flip and Serve:
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Flip the pancake one last time so the crispy noodle side is on the bottom. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
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Slide the finished pancake onto a plate.
7. Top and Enjoy!
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Immediately brush a generous amount of the okonomiyaki sauce over the top.
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Drizzle with Japanese mayonnaise in a zig-zag pattern.
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Sprinkle liberally with aonori (seaweed flakes) and a handful of katsuobushi (bonito flakes), which will dance and wave from the heat.
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Repeat the process for the second pancake. Serve hot and cut into wedges!
Pro-Tips for Success
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Crispy Noodle Secret: The key to a crispy base is to let the noodles cook alone in the oil for a few minutes before adding the batter. Don’t rush this step!
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Low and Slow: Cooking over medium heat ensures the inside cooks through without burning the outside. If it’s browning too fast, reduce the heat.
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The Flip: If you’re nervous about flipping, you can finish it under a broiler for 2-3 minutes instead of flipping. Just make sure your skillet is oven-safe.
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Customize It: The name “Okonomiyaki” means “grilled as you like it.” Feel free to experiment with different fillings like cheese, kimchi, or mochi!
Enjoy your homemade taste of Japanese street food
