Grilled Japanese Seafood Okonomiyaki

Introduction

Grilled Japanese Seafood Okonomiyaki is a savory, seafood-packed pancake cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. With a crispy outside and tender inside, this dish is layered with exquisite flavors that come together beautifully on the flat cooktop griddle. By using the Arteflame grill, you achieve an even sear without burning, as the solid steel cooktop ensures the fire never touches your food. Get ready for an authentic Japanese street food experience with a rich, umami-packed okonomiyaki straight from your grill.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dashi broth (or water)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup chopped shrimp
• 1/2 cup chopped squid
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup tempura flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for grilling)
• Okonomiyaki sauce, for serving
• Kewpie mayonnaise, for serving
• Bonito flakes, for garnish
• Nori strips, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the oil-soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop griddle is hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Okonomiyaki batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, dashi broth, and eggs until smooth.
2. Fold in the shredded cabbage, chopped shrimp, squid, green onions, tempura flakes, and salt.
3. Gently mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Grill the Okonomiyaki

1. Spread melted butter on the flat cooktop griddle, particularly in the area near the center for maximum heat control.
2. Spoon a portion of the batter onto the griddle, forming a round pancake shape about 6 inches in diameter.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the edges become slightly crispy and golden brown.
4. Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and garnish

1. Transfer the okonomiyaki to a plate.
2. Generously drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and Kewpie mayonnaise.
3. Top with bonito flakes and nori strips for an extra burst of umami.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Use fresh seafood for a more vibrant flavor.
• Keep the pancakes at an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don't press down on the pancake while grilling—this keeps it fluffy and light.
• Cook multiple okonomiyaki at the same time by utilizing the large Arteflame griddle space.

Variations

1. Spicy Okonomiyaki: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or top with spicy mayo for a fiery kick.
2. Pork Belly Okonomiyaki: Swap the seafood for thin pork belly slices for a richer, meatier version.
3. Cheese Okonomiyaki: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pancake before flipping for a gooey, cheesy touch.
4. Vegetarian Okonomiyaki: Replace seafood with mushrooms and grilled zucchini for a plant-based alternative.
5. Teriyaki Chicken Okonomiyaki: Add grilled teriyaki chicken pieces to infuse an extra layer of flavor.

Best pairings

• Miso soup for a traditional Japanese side
• Japanese pickles for a tangy contrast
• Sake or a cold Japanese beer to complement the dish
• Steamed rice for an extra filling meal

Conclusion

Grilled Japanese Seafood Okonomiyaki is a fantastic way to enjoy Japanese street food right from your backyard. With the Arteflame grill, you get the perfect sear and even heat distribution, ensuring every bite is cooked to perfection. Try different variations to find your favorite and bring the rich flavors of Japan to your outdoor cooking experience.