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In addition to takoyaki, Osaka is known as a very popular gourmet spot for okonomiyaki. There are many variations in how to eat okonomiyaki, but this article will focus on three particularly popular ways to eat it. Each way of eating may seem similar at first glance, but they are actually subtly different, and these differences bring out even more flavor and will be useful information for those who want to enjoy Osaka’s okonomiyaki even more.

General ways of eating okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki continues to be loved by tourists visiting Osaka and locals. Its appeal lies in its unique style and flavor. A typical okonomiyaki is made by adding ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and squid to a dough made mainly from wheat flour, and then grilling it on a hot plate. However, it is not just about grilling and eating it; there is a deep commitment to how it is eaten, and knowing this will expand your appreciation for the taste.

Enjoy the moment when it’s done

First of all, the time it takes for the okonomiyaki to cook on the hot plate is an important process that builds up anticipation. The fragrant aroma as it browns and the faint crackling sound are what stimulate your appetite, and the food is a pleasure to eat with both your eyes and your sense of smell. Then, by checking the doneness with a spatula, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked piece.

Add individuality with toppings

Once the okonomiyaki is done, you can enjoy adjusting the sauce and toppings to your liking. The most common sauce is a sweet and spicy one made specifically for okonomiyaki, but adding mayonnaise to it adds richness and a deeper flavor. The dancing bonito flakes and the vibrant color of the green laver are also part of the fun of eating it. These finishing touches make each piece unique and original.

Cut into easy-to-eat pieces

The key to eating okonomiyaki is how you cut it. By cutting it into moderate sizes using a spatula, not only will it look easier to eat, but you can also balance the flavors that fill your mouth. The crispy surface cooked by the heat of the iron plate and the soft texture of the inside come together in one bite, and once you’ve tasted it, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

How to eat modanyaki

Modanyaki is a type of okonomiyaki that is full of volume and contains noodles, and is especially popular with men and people who want a filling meal. The flavor of the noodles, dough, and ingredients all coming together creates the unique appeal of modanyaki. By knowing how to eat it, you can enjoy this dish even more.

Maximize the flavor by using a spatula

One of the unique ways to eat modanyaki is the skill of combining the noodles and dough. In particular, if you use a spaghetti spatula, the noodles will not get tangled and you can scoop up the ingredients beautifully without spilling them. When cutting into bite-sized pieces, you can use a spaghetti spatula to cut smoothly, allowing you to fully enjoy the unique flavor of modern-yaki.

Enjoy the perfect balance of noodles and dough

The appeal of modern-yaki lies in the balance between dough and noodles. By considering the ratio for each bite, you can feel the harmony of the chewy noodles and the fluffy texture of the dough. In particular, the yakisoba sauce unique to Osaka mixes with the noodles to bring out the umami even more. Enjoying this balance is the best part of modern-yaki.

How to eat negi-yaki

Negi-yaki is an okonomiyaki made with plenty of green onions as a topping, and is characterized by its refreshing flavor. It is an irresistible dish for those who love green onions, and depending on how you eat it, you can bring out the flavor to the fullest.

Bring out the fragrant flavor of green onions

The fragrant aroma of grilled green onions will whet your appetite when you finish cooking negi-yaki. The process of the green onions softening with heat and their sweetness soaking into the batter is also part of the flavor. With one bite, the crispness and aroma of the green onions spread in your mouth in an exquisite balance.

Expand the flavor with condiments and seasonings

Soy sauce-based sauces and ponzu sauce go well with green onion yaki. By adding a little of these sauces and enjoying the change in flavor, you can enjoy it until the last bite without getting bored. You can also add shichimi pepper or yuzu pepper to your liking to further enrich the flavor.

Summary

We have introduced three types of okonomiyaki and how to eat it, which are representative of Osaka. Each way of eating has its own charm, and the taste differs depending on the ingredients, seasonings, and cooking method. The next time you visit Osaka, be sure to try these ways of eating and enjoy the charm of Osaka cuisine even more deeply. You will surely discover something new in the fragrant aroma of the grilled okonomiyaki, the fun of toppings, and the depth of flavor created by the difference in texture.

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