Camilla Jessen
And it’s surprisingly good for you too.
Craving something crunchy, flavorful, and actually good for you?
Then you should give this Japanese cabbage snack a try — it’s surprisingly addictive.
It’s not an official name, but once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why fans keep coming back for more.
This garlicky, sesame-rich cabbage salad is simple to make, loaded with nutrients, and hits that sweet spot between savory satisfaction and health-conscious eating.
Whether you’re trying to replace junk food or just want a fresh new side dish, this recipe from Freundin checks all the boxes.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 250 g pointed cabbage (also called sweetheart or conehead cabbage)
- ¼ tsp salt
- Pepper to taste
- 1 large garlic clove, finely grated
- 1.5 tbsp roasted white sesame seeds
- 1.5 tbsp sesame oil
- ¼ tsp broth or dashi powder (for authentic Japanese flavor)
- Optional: chili threads for garnish
Quick & Easy Preparation
- Prep the cabbage: Cut it into bite-sized pieces, rinse, and pat dry.
- Mix it up: In a bowl, combine the cabbage with salt, pepper, garlic, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and broth/dashi powder. Toss everything until the cabbage is well coated.
- Taste & tweak: Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve & enjoy: Top with chili threads if using, and dig in immediately — or let it chill for a bit to deepen the flavors.
Why It’s Good For You
- Pointed cabbage: High in fiber and vitamin C, plus powerful antioxidants like glucosinolates.
- Garlic: Supports heart health and immunity, with proven antibacterial effects.
- White sesame seeds: Loaded with healthy fats, magnesium, calcium, and plant-based iron.
- Sesame oil: Rich in vitamin E and anti-inflammatory fatty acids.
- Dashi/broth: Adds savory umami and, if seaweed-based, gives you a boost of iodine and omega-3s.
- Chili (optional): Contains metabolism-boosting capsaicin and adds a flavorful kick.
Whether served as a light lunch, side dish, or healthy late-night snack, this Japanese cabbage salad could be the habit you actually want to keep.