Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a type of crepe that is exclusive to Japan, and comes with a generous filling of meat, seafood, and vegetables. While the recipe sounds pretty ordinary, it is a lot richer and more wholesome than the other pancakes available globally. Although Okonomiyaki is relished all over the country, it was invented in the city of Hiroshima, and consistently perfected by its locals. In fact, an entire theme park in the city by the name of ‘Okonomimura’ is dedicated to this savoury dish. With the addition of eggs, tempura bits, bacon, cheese, noodles, shrimps, and a whole lot of vegetables like cabbages and onions, this pancake is healthy and sinful at the same time.

While it has its beginnings in the form of a snack popularly consumed during the World War period, Okonomiyaki is now served as a proper meal in Japanese restaurants, and is being adapted and interpreted by chefs all over the world. However, one of the best places to sample this fare is at food stalls and cheap eateries that are usually run by women in places like Hiroshima and Kyoto. With the freshest of ingredients, their home-style version is packed with an array of flavours, and a whole lot of love. The icing on the cake is that it is rather inexpensive.
Where to buy: Okonomimura in Hiroshima.