Crispy Rice

A fusion of Japanese flavors and crispy textures, this dish takes inspiration from Okonomiyaki, the beloved Japanese savory pancake, and combines it with crispy rice for a unique and delicious meal. It’s packed with umami and topped with classic okonomiyaki-style garnishes for irresistible crunch.

Origin of Okonomiyaki-Inspired Crispy Rice

Okonomiyaki originated in Japan, particularly in Osaka and Hiroshima, where it’s made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, then topped with rich sauces and bonito flakes. This recipe takes the flavors of okonomiyaki but swaps out the pancake for crispy rice, inspired by Japanese-style fried rice cakes.

What I Love About This Recipe

I love how this dish brings together the crispy, golden texture of fried rice with the savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of okonomiyaki. The toppings add an exciting finish, and it’s super versatile—you can add protein like shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a complete meal.

Also Read : Hotdog Roll-Ups

Okonomiyaki-Inspired Crispy Rice

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Random

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

Calories

446+

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked short-grain rice (preferably chilled)

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp soy sauce

• ½ cup shredded cabbage

• 2 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended)

• 1 tbsp okonomiyaki sauce (or a mix of Worcestershire sauce & ketchup)

• 1 tbsp chopped green onions

• 1 tbsp bonito flakes (optional but adds authentic flavor)

• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

• ½ tsp nori flakes (or finely chopped seaweed)

Directions

• Heat a large pan over medium heat and add vegetable oil.
• Spread the chilled rice evenly in the pan, pressing it down slightly.
• Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes, until the bottom turns golden and crispy.
• Flip the rice in sections and cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes, adding soy sauce for extra flavor.
• While the rice is crisping, shred the cabbage and slice the green onions.
• Transfer the crispy rice to a plate.
• Sprinkle the shredded cabbage on top.
• Drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayo in a zigzag pattern.
• Top with green onions, sesame seeds, nori flakes, and bonito flakes (if using).

Notes

• Extra Protein: Add shrimp, tofu, or a fried egg on top for more richness.
• Sauce Swap: If you don’t have okonomiyaki sauce, mix 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce + ½ tbsp ketchup + ½ tsp soy sauce for a similar taste.