okonomiyaki denver

Okonomiyaki in Denver: A Culinary Adventure

Okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, is gaining popularity in Denver’s diverse food scene. While not as ubiquitous as sushi or ramen, a growing number of restaurants are offering this delicious and customizable dish. Finding authentic and high-quality okonomiyaki in Denver requires a bit of exploration, but the reward is a flavorful and satisfying experience.

What is Okonomiyaki?

Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き) literally translates to “grilled as you like it”. It’s essentially a pancake containing a variety of ingredients. The batter is usually made from flour, eggs, and grated yam, to which shredded cabbage and other ingredients are added. Common additions include pork belly, seafood, vegetables, and cheese. The pancake is cooked on a griddle and topped with okonomiyaki sauce (a sweet and savory sauce similar to Worcestershire sauce), Japanese mayonnaise, dried seaweed flakes (aonori), and bonito flakes (katsuobushi). For a more detailed explanation, you can refer to Wikipedia’s Okonomiyaki entry.

Where to Find Okonomiyaki in Denver

While dedicated okonomiyaki restaurants are still relatively rare in Denver, several restaurants offer it as a featured item on their menus. Here are some types of places to look:

• Izakayas: Japanese pubs often serve okonomiyaki as a shareable dish.
• Ramen Restaurants: Some ramen establishments have expanded their menus to include other Japanese favorites, including okonomiyaki.
• Specialty Japanese Restaurants: Look for restaurants that specialize in a variety of Japanese dishes beyond just sushi or ramen.
• Food Halls: Sometimes food halls feature unique vendors, and you might be lucky enough to find one offering okonomiyaki.

It’s always a good idea to check online reviews and restaurant menus beforehand to confirm okonomiyaki availability and get an idea of the restaurant’s style and price range.

Types of Okonomiyaki

There are two main styles of okonomiyaki: Osaka-style and Hiroshima-style. Osaka-style involves mixing all the ingredients into the batter and grilling it as one pancake. Hiroshima-style is more layered, with the batter spread thinly, followed by cabbage, noodles (usually yakisoba), and other ingredients. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is often larger and can be quite filling.

Customizing Your Okonomiyaki

One of the best things about okonomiyaki is its customizability. Many restaurants allow you to choose your own fillings, allowing you to create a pancake that perfectly suits your tastes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does okonomiyaki taste like?

Okonomiyaki offers a savory, umami-rich flavor with a hint of sweetness from the sauce. The texture is a mix of crispy, tender, and slightly chewy, depending on the ingredients.

Is okonomiyaki healthy?

Okonomiyaki can be relatively healthy depending on the ingredients used. It contains vegetables and protein, but can also be high in sodium and carbohydrates. Moderation is key.

What is okonomiyaki sauce made of?

Okonomiyaki sauce is a thick, sweet, and savory sauce made with ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and various spices.

Can I make okonomiyaki at home?

Yes, you can definitely make okonomiyaki at home! There are many recipes available online. It takes some practice to get the technique right, but it’s a fun and rewarding cooking project.

Is okonomiyaki gluten-free?

Traditional okonomiyaki is not gluten-free because it contains wheat flour. However, some restaurants may offer gluten-free versions using rice flour or other alternatives. Be sure to inquire about ingredients if you have a gluten intolerance.

Summary

Okonomiyaki is a delicious and versatile Japanese dish that is slowly making its way into Denver’s culinary landscape. While not as readily available as other Japanese staples, finding a great okonomiyaki experience in Denver is possible with a little research and exploration. Enjoy the customizable nature of this savory pancake and discover your favorite flavor combinations.