Name: Izakaya-Style Yamitsuki Cabbage Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 head green cabbage, chopped into cubes; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon dashi powder; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons roasted sesame seeds, ground; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2–3 tablespoons hemp seeds, optional topping

Why You’ll Love Izakaya-Style Yamitsuki Cabbage Salad Recipe

This cabbage salad is fast, flavorful, and requires no cooking at all. The combination of sesame oil, garlic, and toasted sesame seeds creates a rich and savory dressing that coats every crunchy bite of cabbage.

It is also ideal for meal prep because the cabbage softens slightly as it sits while absorbing even more flavor. With only a handful of ingredients and a preparation time of about 15 minutes, this salad is a reliable go-to side dish for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 head green cabbage, chopped into cubes
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dashi powder
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons roasted sesame seeds, ground
3 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 tablespoons hemp seeds (optional topping)

Directions

Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage and cut out the stem.

Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, rinse well, and dry thoroughly using paper towels or a salad spinner.

Place the cabbage into a large mixing bowl.

Add the salt, dashi powder, sesame oil, ground roasted sesame seeds, and minced garlic.

Using clean hands or tongs, toss everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated with the seasoning.

Let the cabbage sit for 10–15 minutes so it softens slightly and absorbs the flavors.

Toss again before serving and top with hemp seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 5 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

For a spicy version, add chili flakes or a spoonful of chili crisp.

For extra crunch, mix in sliced cucumbers or shredded carrots.

For a vegan version, replace dashi powder with mushroom seasoning or vegetable bouillon powder.

For a nuttier flavor, add extra toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

For a citrusy twist, squeeze fresh lemon or yuzu juice over the salad just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cabbage salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

The cabbage will continue to soften over time while absorbing more seasoning, making it even more flavorful the next day.

This dish is served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

What does Yamitsuki mean?

“Yamitsuki” roughly translates to “addictive” in Japanese, which describes how irresistible this flavorful cabbage salad can be.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. This salad is excellent for meal prep because the flavors deepen as it sits in the refrigerator.

What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is the traditional choice because it stays crisp while soaking up the dressing.

Is this salad spicy?

No, the traditional version is savory and garlicky rather than spicy. You can add chili flakes if you want heat.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. Replace the dashi powder with a vegan seasoning such as mushroom powder or vegetable bouillon.

Why does the cabbage need to rest?

Resting helps soften the cabbage slightly while allowing the salt and seasonings to fully absorb.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, although freshly chopped cabbage usually has the best crunch and texture.

What can I serve with Yamitsuki cabbage?

It pairs well with grilled meats, rice bowls, noodles, dumplings, tofu dishes, and Japanese-inspired meals.

Do I have to grind the sesame seeds?

Grinding the sesame seeds releases more aroma and flavor, but whole toasted sesame seeds can also work.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes. Tofu, shredded chicken, edamame, or boiled eggs can make it more filling as a light meal.

Conclusion

This Izakaya-Style Yamitsuki Cabbage Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create bold flavor. Crunchy cabbage, fragrant sesame oil, garlic, and savory seasonings come together in a quick and refreshing side dish that works with almost any meal. Whether served fresh or meal-prepped for later, this easy Japanese cabbage salad is sure to become a favorite.