Monjayaki facts for kids
Monjayaki is a yummy and unique Japanese dish. It's a type of savory pancake that you cook right at your table! It's made from a thin batter of flour and water, often mixed with Worcestershire sauce. Many other tasty ingredients are added, like chopped cabbage.
Monjayaki is grilled on a hot plate. It's a popular food in different parts of Japan, especially in Tokyo. The exact ingredients can change depending on where you are.
Contents
What is Monjayaki?
Monjayaki is a special kind of Japanese pancake. It's different from other pancakes because it's very runny. You cook it on a hot griddle in front of you. This makes it a fun and interactive meal!
Main Ingredients
The basic batter for Monjayaki is simple. It uses flour mixed with water or a savory sauce. The most important vegetable added is finely chopped cabbage.
But that's just the start! People add all sorts of delicious things. Some popular additions include:
- Meat like pork or beef
- Seafood such as shrimp, squid, or octopus
- Cheese
- Corn
- Mochi (a chewy rice cake)
- Noodles
How to Cook Monjayaki
Cooking Monjayaki is part of the fun! First, you stir-fry the solid ingredients on the hot griddle. You use two small spatulas to chop them into tiny pieces.
Next, you make a ring with the chopped ingredients. This creates a "dam" on the griddle. Then, you pour the runny batter into the middle of this ring. The batter will bubble and thicken.
Finally, you mix everything together. You spread the mixture thinly on the griddle. It cooks quickly and gets a crispy bottom. You eat it directly from the griddle using a small spatula.
History of Monjayaki
Monjayaki has a long and interesting history. It is believed to have started in the Tsukishima area of Tokyo. Long ago, it was a simple snack.
Early Days
In the beginning, Monjayaki was very basic. It was often made with just soy sauce, flour, and water. It was a cheap and filling treat for children. They would cook it themselves after school.
Monjayaki Today
Over time, people started adding more ingredients. Cabbage became a common addition. Later, things like cuttlefish and other seafood were included. Today, Monjayaki is a beloved dish. It's enjoyed by families and friends. It's a great way to share a meal and have fun cooking together.
Images for kids
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Monjayaki before cooking, showing the ingredients and runny batter.
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Monjayaki after cooking, ready to be enjoyed from the griddle.
See also
In Spanish: Monjayaki para niños
