Konnichiwa!
Hi, I’m Lisa! I’m the voice, photographer, and recipe developer behind Okonomi Kitchen. Welcome to my little space on the internet where I share my personal food stories and offer inspiration for everyday home cooks.
The story behind Okonomi Kitchen
I’m a 26-year-old food enthusiast, born and raised in Markham, Ontario. With a Japanese-Chinese heritage, my culinary journey is deeply influenced by the flavours and traditions of my background. I studied kinesiology at Western University, but my true passion has always been in the kitchen. I also share my home with Subie, my adorable Shiba Inu.
My background is Japanese and Chinese, and I grew up with a lot of Japanese influences thanks to my mom. Okonomi (お好み) is a Japanese word that literally translates to “how you like” or “what you like.” When I cook, I cook while tasting. Everyone has different taste buds, taste preferences, and dietary needs, and I truly believe that to make any dish taste good, you have to adjust the balance of flavors to your own liking. Cooking, especially healthy food and vegetables, doesn’t need to be hard or stressful. Here, I hope to inspire and show you how to easily cook up healthy, delicious plant-based meals with everyday ingredients… just how you like it.
My Culinary Philosophy
Here at Okonomi Kitchen, I strive to share recipes that are approachable, bring comfort and excitement. My culinary creations stem from a place of nostalgia, using ingredients that bring back memories or resonate with me on a personal level. This approach allows me to produce my most genuine work, blending traditional techniques with new, inspiring ideas.
Growing up in Toronto, I was also exposed to so many other cultures and their food. Tasting, experimentation and testing have helped me develop recipes that feel authentic and heartfelt to me. My work draws heavily from my food memories and cultural experiences growing up. This Japanese-Chinese influence, combined with my upbringing in the diverse communities of Ontario, drives me to explore unique flavors, combinations, textures, and presentations that may be new to many.
Creating from this perspective feels the most natural to me, and I aim to translate these emotions into the recipes I share and the food I make. Nostalgia plays a significant role in my culinary approach, allowing me to craft dishes with a different perspective. Food’s power to bond and connect people has always fascinated me. The best feeling is when I receive feedback where someone tells me that one of my creations reminded them of a cherished food memory from their own life. Connecting with others through these shared experiences is incredibly fulfilling.
What Will You Find on This Blog?
Japanese recipes
Most of my recipes are directly or adapted from my grandma and mother who I learned how to season and cook authentic Japanese food. Cooking Japanese recipes gives me so much nostalgia about growing up and being in Japan, and being able to write about it through this blog is my way of preserving this memories and recipes. Here are some of my favourites:
Chinese Recipes
My dad is second generation Chinese and grew up in Toronto. I didn’t grow up learning a lot about this side of my culture but have started dabbling into Chinese culture and food as I got older and would love to share more recipes from this side of my family moving forward! Here are some of my favourites that are already on the blog:
Modernized Quick & Easy Asian Inspired Recipes
With the world constantly getting busier and technology becoming more advanced, I love sharing quick and easy recipes that are still reminiscent of classic dishes! Here are some of the most popular on the blog:
Japanese Style Bagels
Since 2022 I’ve been really pulled into Japanese style bagels and have finally gotten around to sharing some recipes and hosting popups in Toronto! They’re unique and one of a kind especially with the versatility beyond sandwiching.
Asian-inspired desserts
I love making and eating traditional Japanese desserts but also love experimenting with fusion flavours and adding flavours of nostalgia to classic American desserts!
- Hanami Dango
- Mitarashi Dango
- Sesame Oil Lemon Cake
- Soy Caramel Sauce
- Burnt Miso Brown Butter Banana Bread