Hey #Steemit community! The @backpackingchef here!! Today I want to share with you an awesome dish some locals showed me, while in Hiroshima, Japan!

Okonomiyaki

The word Okonomiyaki, translates to 'how you like, grill' essentially, this dish is a savoury pancake, and can be cooked how you like, with different toppings.

Traditionally this dish is mixed together with all the ingredients (batter, cabbage, egg and green onion) but the Hiroshima style is layered and has a layer of crispy noodles at the bottom (much more satisfying, in my opinion!)

There are many Okonomiyaki bars around every city, and their menus generally run you through the process. But I'll help you out, just in case!

First things first! You must choose your noodles, Udon or Yakisoba!

Then, comes the pancake!

Afterwards, the cabbage!

Next! Which toppings would you like? Generally a choice between seafood, pork, squid, cheese or mushroom even all of them if you're feeling extravagent!

Lastly, a double serving or is one plenty for you?
And of course how spicy do you like it?

Okonomiyaki is always topped with fried egg, Okonomiyaki sauce (Kind of a spicy bbq sauce), seaweed flakes, dried bonito flakes and seasoning.

Watching the Okonomiyaki chef work his magic in front of you is always a treat, as a chef myself, I have a true respect for Japanese chefs. Everything has it's place and purpose, and the cooking of even a simple meal is almost like a refined dance to them.

As my Japanese hosts told me prior to our meal, it is preferred to drink beer with Okonomiyaki, and there's no need for moderation as it's a casual meal!

Now all that's left to do is eat, and as the Japanese say, before eating, 'itadakimasu!'

I'm the @backpackingchef, and I hope you enjoyed this article! I strongly recommend checking out an Okonomiyaki bar when in Japan! Especially the Hiroshima style!

Please feel free to comment and tell me what you think! And if you've tried this mouth-watering dish! I love hearing from you all.

Next time, I'll be writing about my home, Western Australia!

Lots of love, the @backpackingchef!