“Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki”—just hearing the name brings to mind the savory aroma and flavors of layered ingredients sizzling on a hot griddle. This iconic dish from Hiroshima Prefecture is beloved for its unique cooking method and rich taste.

History

The history of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki dates back to the post-World War II reconstruction period. Following the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, there was a need for affordable, nutritious meals, leading to the creation of this dish. It evolved from a thin crepe-like dish known as “issen yoshoku,” with layers of cabbage, bean sprouts, and other ingredients​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Characteristics

The defining feature of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is its layered cooking method. Basic ingredients include a flour-water batter, a generous amount of cabbage, bean sprouts, pork, soba (or udon) noodles, and eggs. Each layer is cooked sequentially on a griddle, allowing the flavors to meld together. Common toppings include okonomiyaki sauce, aonori (seaweed flakes), katsuobushi (bonito flakes), and mayonnaise​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Preparation

The basic steps to make Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki are:

1. Prepare the Batter: Mix flour and water to create a thin batter.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop cabbage, ready bean sprouts, pork, and noodles.
3. Cook: Heat a griddle, spread the batter in a circle, and layer cabbage, bean sprouts, and pork on top. Cook the noodles separately and layer them onto the cooked ingredients. Finally, crack an egg onto the griddle, place the layered ingredients on top of the egg, and cook both sides thoroughly.
4. Finish: Top with okonomiyaki sauce, aonori, katsuobushi, and mayonnaise​ (AJINOMOTO PARK)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Nutritional Value

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is rich in vitamins and dietary fiber from the vegetables and provides protein from the pork and eggs. The addition of noodles offers a balanced source of carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded meal​ (AJINOMOTO PARK)​.

Cultural Significance

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is widely loved both within and outside Hiroshima Prefecture, with many specialized restaurants offering this dish. Hiroshima City boasts areas like Okonomimura and Okonomi Republic, where numerous okonomiyaki restaurants are clustered, attracting tourists. For locals, it is a special dish enjoyed at festivals and events​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Moreover, Hiroshima residents have a strong reaction against the term “Hiroshima-yaki” because they view “okonomiyaki” as an integral part of their local identity and believe it should be distinct from other regions’ versions​ (Wikipedia)​.

Conclusion

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, with its distinctive layered cooking method and rich flavors, is a standout in Japanese teppanyaki cuisine. Despite its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, the resulting dish is profoundly satisfying. Be sure to experience the delightful taste of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and enjoy a special moment with this iconic Japanese dish.