Crispy Onion Yakitori: Easy Okonomiyaki-Style Grilled Onions

Forget everything you thought you knew about onion rings. This isn't your grandma's soggy side dish; this is crispy onion yakitori, a Japanese-inspired delight that elevates the humble onion to new heights. Imagine perfectly caramelized, intensely flavorful onion slices, grilled to a satisfying crispness, and imbued with the umami depth of a savory glaze. The secret? A simple okonomiyaki-style approach that delivers unbelievably tender insides and a shatteringly crunchy exterior. These aren't just onions; they're intensely flavorful bites that stand alone or complement any meal.

This recipe transforms ordinary onions into an extraordinary culinary experience. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the onions to achieving that perfect balance of sweet and savory. Ready to elevate your grilling game and create a truly unforgettable appetizer or side dish? Let's get started with our easy-to-follow instructions.

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Onions (new onions preferred): 200g
  • Potatoes: 120g
  • Melted cheese
  • Potato starch
  • Potato powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Olive oil (or butter)
  • Ketchup
  • Mayonnaise
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Grated garlic
  • Black pepper
  • Curry consommé (or chicken spice sauce)
  • Dried parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Batter

  • Mix ketchup, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic, and black pepper in a bowl.
  • Cut the onions in half, remove the core, and slice into 3-5mm widths.
  • Peel and julienne the potatoes.
  • Combine the onions, potatoes, melted cheese, curry consommé, salt, pepper, potato starch, and potato powder in a plastic bag or bowl. Shake to mix well.
Prepare the sauce: Mix ketchup, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic, and black pepper in a bowl.Cut the onions in half, remove the core, and slice into 3-5mm widths.Peel and julienne the potatoes.Combine the onions, potatoes, melted cheese, curry consommé, salt, pepper, potato starch, and potato powder in a plastic bag or bowl. Shake to mix well.
Prepare Ingredients and Batter

Step 2. Cook the Onion Yakitori

  • Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Spread the onion and potato mixture evenly in the pan.
  • Cook over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and cover. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
  • Carefully flip the onion yakitori. Continue cooking over low heat, pressing down firmly with a spatula, until both sides are browned and crispy.
Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Spread the onion and potato mixture evenly in the pan.Cook over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and cover. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until lightly browned.Carefully flip the onion yakitori. Continue cooking over low heat, pressing down firmly with a spatula, until both sides are browned and crispy.
Cook the Onion Yakitori

Step 3. Serve

  • Cut the onion yakitori into bite-sized pieces.
  • Garnish with dried parsley and serve with the prepared tomato sauce.
Cut the onion yakitori into bite-sized pieces.Garnish with dried parsley and serve with the prepared tomato sauce.
Serve

Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe

Tips

  • Any type of onion and potato can be used.
  • A 24cm frying pan is recommended for even cooking.
  • Press the mixture down firmly with a spatula while cooking to achieve a crispy exterior.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of onion for this recipe?

While yellow onions work best for their sweetness and texture, you can experiment with white or red onions. Just keep in mind that red onions will have a sharper flavor.

2. What if I don't have a grill? Can I cook these on a stovetop?

Absolutely! A grill pan or even a well-seasoned cast iron skillet works perfectly. Just ensure you get a good sear on each side.

3. How long can I store leftover crispy onion yakitori?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're best enjoyed fresh, but reheating gently in a pan or oven works well.


With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you've mastered the art of crispy onion yakitori. This recipe is a testament to how simple techniques can transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this surprisingly addictive and flavorful dish!