Can I make Air Fryer Savory Japanese Okonomiyaki Pancakes ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.

How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Savory Japanese Okonomiyaki Pancakes

Name: Air Fryer Savory Japanese Okonomiyaki Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 cups finely shredded green cabbage; 1/2 cup grated carrot; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; 3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup dashi stock or water (for vegetarian, use water or kombu dashi); 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided; Japanese mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes (omit for vegetarian), aonori seaweed flakes

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 2, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Quick air fryer Japanese okonomiyaki pancakes with a crispy outside and tender inside. and perfect for family meals or weeknight dinners in 30 minutes or less.

Start cooking

Air fryerJapaneseEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Total Time25 mins

Servings4

Temperature375°F / 190°C

Ingredients

Servings4

2 cups finely shredded green cabbage
1/2 cup grated carrot
3 green onions, thinly sliced
3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 large eggs
1/4 cup dashi stock or water (for vegetarian, use water or kombu dashi)
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
Optional toppings
Japanese mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes (omit for vegetarian), aonori seaweed flakes

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced green onions.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the dry ingredients to the vegetables and mix gently to combine.
In another small bowl, beat the eggs with dashi stock (or water) and soy sauce.
Pour the egg mixture into the vegetable and flour mixture, folding carefully until a thick, sticky batter forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender.
Lightly brush the air fryer basket or tray with half the vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Divide the batter into four equal portions and shape each into a round, flat pancake about 1/2 inch thick. Place them carefully in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches.
Lightly brush the top of each pancake with the remaining vegetable oil to promote crispiness.
Cook for 7 minutes, then carefully flip each pancake using a spatula and cook for another 7-8 minutes until both sides are golden and crispy.
Remove from the air fryer and transfer to serving plates.
Top each pancake with a drizzle of Japanese mayonnaise and okonomiyaki sauce. Garnish with aonori seaweed flakes and, if not vegetarian, bonito flakes for authentic flavor.
Serve immediately as a delicious, crispy, and savory main course.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the s finely shredded green cabbage dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Savory Japanese Okonomiyaki Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Savory Japanese Okonomiyaki Pancakes ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.