
Savory Cabbage Pancakes (Okonomiyaki Style)
A twist on classic Okonomiyaki, these savory cabbage pancakes are packed with flavor and easy to make.
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Medium
Nutrition Facts
180
Calories
7g
Protein
24g
Carbs
6g
Fat
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (about half a head)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray for frying
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, flour, green onions, water, eggs, mayonnaise, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- 2
Heat olive oil or use cooking spray in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- 3
Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the heated pan for each pancake, spreading it out slightly to create a round shape.
- 4
Cook each pancake on one side until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes), then flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes or until done.
- 5
Repeat with remaining batter. Serve hot with additional mayonnaise and ketchup if desired.
So you’re in the mood for something a bit different, but still comfortingly familiar? Look no further than these Savory Cabbage Pancakes inspired by Okonomiyaki. Think of it as your kitchen’s version of Japanese street food, minus the long lines and language barriers.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First off, it's packed with flavor—the combination of cabbage, green onions, mayonnaise, and ketchup delivers a unique taste that’s hard to resist. But let's be real, it's not just about the taste; these pancakes are also super versatile. You can add your favorite fillings like diced bacon or cooked shrimp for an extra boost.
Another perk? These aren't just another boring side dish—they're perfect as a main course too. They’re hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites without breaking out the heavy pots and pans.
Oh, and let’s not forget about how quick they are to make. From prep to serving in under an hour? That's efficiency at its best.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thinking you can skip shredding the cabbage finely enough—it needs to be thin so it cooks evenly.
- Using too much or not enough batter per pancake—aim for about 1/4 cup for a nice-sized pancake that's easy to flip.
- Not preheating your pan properly—a hot pan means better browning and less sticking.
- Adding too many fillings—keep it simple so the flavors don’t overwhelm each other.

Alternatives & Substitutions
No mayonnaise? Use sour cream or plain yogurt for a tangy twist. It might not be classic, but it'll still work wonders.
Want more protein? Add in some cooked sausage or bacon bits. The fat from the meat will make these pancakes even tastier and more filling.
Feeling adventurous? Try using different types of cabbage like Savoy for a bit of crunch or Napa cabbage for something a little milder.
Can't find green onions? Use chives, scallions, or just skip them altogether. They're great, but not essential.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What if I don’t have ketchup? You can use tomato sauce instead; it’s not as sweet, so you might want to add a bit of sugar to balance the flavor. Or, go for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Can these be made gluten-free? Sure thing! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Just make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free too.
What’s the best way to serve them? Serve right away with additional mayonnaise and ketchup on the side for dipping. You can also add some slices of okonomiyaki sauce (a sweet, savory Japanese sauce) if you have it.
Can I freeze these pancakes? Yes! Let them cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Final Thoughts
So there you have it—quick, delicious cabbage pancakes that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you’re whipping up a weekend brunch or just craving something different for dinner, these Savory Cabbage Pancakes are an easy win. Enjoy the flavors of Japan right in your kitchen without all the fuss!
Now go impress someone—or yourself—with this tasty and versatile dish. Bon appétit!