Japanese omelet (tamagoyaki) is a staple side dish in Japanese food culture. It is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it is also a popular appetizer. In fact, tamagoyaki is one of the items often served at sushi restaurants, and it’s also usually included in bento boxes, that’s how much Japanese people love their omelets! In this easy recipe, we are going to show you everything you need to know to make tamagoyaki at home. It’s a bit different than the western style omelet, but we are sure it’s going to be one of your new favorite dishes.
What is Tamagoyaki?
Tamagoyaki literally means “baked or grilled eggs”. Each household in Japan has a different recipe, but a seasoned egg is usually cooked and rolled in multiple layers. Our method is a basic one that gives you both sweet and savory flavors in your omelet. If you’re in a hurry, simply mixing a bit of dashi stock will make tamagoyaki taste great by adding lots of authentic Japanese flavor. It might take a while to master the rolling skill, but its a good skill to have
The result is a lighter, fluffier, and creamier omelet than many people are familiar with when thinking about the omelet. Tamagoyaki is also usually cut into bite-sized servings, which is perfect for adding to the top of sushi rice or stacking in a bento box. Keep in mind that look and presentation are critical when it comes to Japanese food, check out our basic guide to plating for helpful tips and tricks that will make your tamagoyaki based dishes as beautiful as they are delicious.
Tamagoyaki at Sushi Restaurant
Tamagoyaki is surprisingly one of the most ordered items at sushi restaurants in Japan. Some people say that when eating tamagoyaki, you can examine the true skill of a sushi chef! Tasting different kinds of tamagoyaki at various sushi restaurants can be a fun way to find your favorite sushi restaurant. You should order tamagoyaki as a palate cleanser between bolder sushi items, or finish your meal with it as a “dessert.”
Cooking Tip
- Many people in Japan own a small rectangular pan that’s specifically for making tamagoyaki. It’s still possible to make tamagoyaki in a round pan. However, if you want to do it the Japanese way, get the rectangular pan!
- Try different kinds of tamagoyaki recipes or make it your own by adding your favorite Japanese seasonings. Start with sake, mirin, soy sauce, nori seaweed, dashi stock, and more.
Japanese Omelet (Tamagoyaki)
Instructions
- Beat eggs well in a small bowl.
- Add sugar, sake, soy sauce and salt and mix more.
- Heat frying pan over low heat and add oil to the pan.
Once the pan is hot, pour half of the egg mixture to the pan.
Once egg starts to set, gently roll the egg 3 times using spatula. Place the rolled egg on the upper side of the pan.
- Spread oil again using paper towel and pour in the rest of the egg mixture.
Once egg is half cooked, roll the egg again with spatula.
Using spatula, angle the rolled egg and cook top, bottom, and both sides until lightly brown.
- Let it cool, and cut into bitable size. Enjoy!
