Tamagoyaki

Tamagoyaki is a Japanese rolled omelet made with eggs and a touch of sweetness from sugar, sake, and soy sauce. This dish features a delicate, fluffy texture and is often enjoyed in bento boxes or as a breakfast item.

29 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

4 eggs
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp sake
1 tsp soy sauce
1/4 tsp salt
1 short spray cooking spray oil
Tamagoyaki

Tamagoyaki, a Japanese rolled omelet, is a delightful dish often enjoyed in bento boxes or as part of a traditional Japanese breakfast. Its slightly sweet and savory flavor, combined with a delicate, fluffy texture, makes it a favorite for many. This recipe will guide you through the process of making this simple yet exquisite dish at home.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, crack the 4 eggs.
- Add 2 tsp of sugar, 1 tsp of sake, 1 tsp of soy sauce, and 1/4 tsp of salt.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well combined and the sugar and salt are dissolved.
2. Heat the Pan:
- Place your tamagoyaki pan or small non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat.
- Once the pan is warm, lightly spray it with cooking spray oil to coat the surface.
3. Cook the First Layer:
- Pour a small amount of the egg mixture into the pan, just enough to cover the bottom.
- Tilt and rotate the pan to spread the egg mixture evenly.
- Allow the egg to cook until it is mostly set but still slightly runny on top.
4. Roll the Omelette:
- Using a spatula and chopsticks, gently lift one edge of the omelette and begin rolling it towards the opposite end of the pan.
- Once the first layer is rolled, push it to one side of the pan.
5. Add More Egg Mixture:
- Lightly re-grease the empty part of the pan with another short spray of oil if needed.
- Pour another thin layer of the egg mixture into the pan, lifting the rolled omelette to allow the new layer to flow underneath it.
- Cook until it is mostly set but still slightly runny on top.
6. Continue Rolling:
- Roll the new layer of egg around the previous roll, starting from the edge where the previous roll ended, pushing it back to the opposite side of the pan once rolled.
7. Repeat:
- Repeat steps 5 and 6 until all the egg mixture is used up, continuing to form layers and rolling them into one cohesive roll.
8. Finish Cooking:
- Once the final layer is rolled and cooked, gently press on the roll with a spatula to ensure it is cohesive and cooks through without overbrowning.
9. Slice and Serve:
- Remove the rolled omelette from the pan and place it on a cutting board.
- Let it cool slightly, then slice it into 1-inch pieces.
- Serve tamagoyaki warm or at room temperature. Enjoy on its own or as part of a bento box!

Tamagoyaki may require a bit of practice, but the effort is well worth it. This versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own, atop sushi rice, or as a flavorful addition to your meals. With these tips and a bit of patience, you'll be able to create a delicious and beautifully rolled tamagoyaki that will impress family and friends alike.

Tamagoyaki FAQ:

What is the ideal cooking time for tamagoyaki?

Cooking each layer of tamagoyaki typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes on medium-low heat. Ensure the eggs are mostly set but still slightly runny before rolling.

How do I know when tamagoyaki is done?

Tamagoyaki is done when the final roll is cohesive and firm without being overbrowned. A gentle press with a spatula can help ensure it cooks through evenly.

Can I store leftover tamagoyaki, and how?

Yes, you can store leftover tamagoyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a non-stick pan or microwave before serving.

What can I use as a substitute for sake in this recipe?

You can substitute sake with rice vinegar or dry white wine if necessary. However, note that the flavor might differ slightly from the original recipe.

What kind of pan is best for making tamagoyaki?

A rectangular tamagoyaki pan is traditional for this dish, but a small non-stick frying pan works well too. Ensure it's heated on medium-low to prevent burning.

Tips:

- Use a square or rectangular tamagoyaki pan for the best results.

- Cook over medium-low heat to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.

- Use a rubber spatula to roll the omelet tightly and evenly.

- Strain the egg mixture through a sieve for a smoother texture.

- Practice patience; it may take a few tries to perfect the rolling technique.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 370kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 0.05g
Sugar 9g
Fat 22g

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