Description
Soft, fluffy, and elegantly layered, this Japanese-style rolled omelet (tamagoyaki) brings a touch of artistry to your breakfast or bento box. Its sweet-savory flavor, enhanced by soy sauce, mirin, and a hint of sugar, makes it a versatile dish that’s both satisfying and beautiful. Whether served warm or cold, this delicate omelet is a must-try for fans of Japanese cuisine.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Large eggs: 4
- Water: 4 teaspoons
- Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Mirin: 1 teaspoon
- Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon
- White sugar: ¼ teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper (optional): 1 pinch
For Cooking
- Sesame oil: ½ teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: 1½ teaspoons
Optional Garnish
- Furikake (Japanese rice seasoning): 1 teaspoon
Instructions
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a medium bowl, crack 4 large eggs.
- Add 4 teaspoons water, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon mirin, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon white sugar, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional).
- Whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined. For easy pouring, transfer the mixture to a measuring cup.
2. Set Up Your Cooking Station
- Heat a 10-inch non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Combine ½ teaspoon sesame oil and 1½ teaspoons vegetable oil in a small bowl.
- Use a brush or folded paper towel to lightly coat the pan with the oil mixture.
3. Cook the First Layer
- Pour ⅓ of the egg mixture into the pan, tilting it to create an even layer.
- Cook until the egg is about halfway set but still slightly wet on top.
- Fold in about 1 inch of the edges on three sides to form a square.
- Using a spatula, roll the omelet toward one side of the pan to form a 2-inch-wide roll.
4. Add the Second Layer
- Slide the rolled omelet to one side of the pan, leaving about 3 inches of space.
- Brush the exposed area with oil.
- Pour the next ⅓ of the egg mixture, lifting the rolled omelet slightly so the new layer flows underneath.
- Cook until halfway set, then roll the omelet toward the opposite side.
5. Finish the Final Layer
- Repeat the process with the remaining egg mixture.
- By the end, you’ll have a thick, rectangular omelet.
6. Shape and Rest
- Transfer the omelet to a piece of plastic wrap.
- Wrap the omelet tightly and shape it into a neat rectangle.
- Cover with a clean towel and let it rest for 5 minutes to set the shape.
7. Slice and Serve
- Unwrap the omelet and slice it into 6–8 equal pieces.
- Arrange on a plate and garnish with furikake if desired. Serve warm or cold.
Notes
- Whisk thoroughly: A smooth mixture ensures even cooking and no lumps.
- Control heat: Keep the heat at medium or medium-low to prevent overcooking.
- Use a non-stick pan: This makes rolling the layers easier, especially for beginners.
- Work quickly: Roll the omelet while it’s still slightly wet to ensure the layers stick together.
- Shape while warm: Wrapping it in plastic while warm helps achieve a clean, rectangular shape.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Appetizer
- Method: Rolling, Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Japanese