Okonomiyaki sauce is trending on social media because it’s easy to make, packs a punch of umami and brings home Japanese street food. The sauce tastes similar to Worcestershire or Tonkatsu sauce and is popular because of its sweet, smoky flavor and versatility.

Used on fried foods like pork, chicken katsu and tofu nuggets, okonomiyaki sauce also pairs well with burgers and steaks; as a dip for veggies and meats; in soups and as a marinade or stir-fry. On Instagram, @ablondetraveller recounted their travels in Osaka, Japan, including listing okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that often features cabbage, meat and seafood, topped with okonomiyaki sauce and anori.

Where we’re seeing it: TikTok and Pinterest

Savory Trends

Okonomiyaki sauce offers a punch of umami, which is one of Synergy Flavors 5 Savory Trends to Watch in 2024. This year, we expected to see umami-rich ingredients used to elevate dishes. One of the five basic tastes, umami is described as savory and is characteristic of broths and cooked meats.

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