Tamagoyaki is a beautifully layered Japanese rolled omelette that’s sweet, savory, and a little bit magical. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that looks elegant, tastes incredible, and is endlessly versatile—perfect for breakfast, bento boxes, or sushi night.
Why You’ll Love It
- Soft, sweet, and savory layers
- A traditional bento-box favorite
- Ready in under 15 minutes
- Just 3 main ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- Neutral oil (for the pan)
- 1 tablespoon Japanese Soy Sauce
Optional but traditional: Add a splash of dashi for extra umami flavor.
Instructions
Step 1:
In a bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Add sugar and salt, soy sauce and whisk until well combined.
Step 2:
Lightly oil a nonstick skillet (preferably a rectangular tamagoyaki pan, but any small round pan will do). Heat over medium-low.
Step 3:
Pour a thin layer of the egg mixture into the pan. Tilt to spread it evenly. Let it cook until just set but still soft on top.
Step 4:
Starting from one side, gently roll the egg layer toward the other side using a spatula or chopsticks.
Step 5:
Push the rolled egg to one side of the pan. Add more oil if needed. Pour in a new layer of egg mixture, lifting the roll so the new layer can flow underneath.
Step 6:
Once the new layer sets, roll again, this time incorporating the first roll. Repeat until all the egg is used.
Step 7:
Remove the rolled omelette, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into even pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
- Make it savory – Add a splash of dashi broth or a few drops of soy sauce
- Mix-ins – Try chopped scallions, shredded nori, or finely grated carrot
- Use it in sushi – Tamagoyaki is a classic topping for nigiri or sushi rolls
- Shape it – While still warm, wrap the omelette in a sushi mat to mold it into a perfect rectangle
Serving Ideas
- Over warm rice with miso soup
- Sliced in lunch boxes (bento-style)
- As a protein-rich snack
- In sushi rolls or nigiri
Final Thoughts
Tamagoyaki is simple to make but full of character—soft, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Once you master the rolling technique, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep on rotation.