If you’re looking for a fast and tasty recipe to enhance your weeknight dinners, try this 5-minute Yamitsuki Cabbage. Bursting with umami and nutty sesame tastes, this dish is so irresistible that “yamitsuki” translates to “can’t stop eating” in Japanese.
With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is bound to become a regular on your table.
What You’ll Need (Serves 4)

- 8 ounces green cabbage, chopped into pieces no smaller than one inch
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons roasted sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- Salt and white or black pepper, to taste
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—this recipe is as flexible as it is tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Chop the green cabbage into roughly one-inch pieces. Don’t worry about precision; the rustic chunks are part of the charm.
- Make the Flavor Base: Using a Microplane grater, finely grate the garlic clove into a mixing bowl. Add the toasted sesame oil, roasted sesame seeds, and chicken bouillon powder to the bowl. Mix until you have a fragrant, flavorful paste.
- Combine It All: Toss the cabbage into the bowl with the paste. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece of cabbage is well-coated.
- Season and Serve: Taste your creation and add salt and pepper as desired. The chicken bouillon already packs a punch, so go easy on the salt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick: Ready in just five minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or grilled protein.
- Flavorful: The combination of toasted sesame oil, garlic, and bouillon powder creates an irresistible umami-rich coating for the cabbage.
Pro Tips

- Go Bold with Garlic: Love garlic? Add an extra clove for a stronger kick.
- Make It Vegan: Swap out the chicken bouillon for a vegetable-based alternative.
- Customize the Texture: If you prefer your cabbage warm, lightly sauté it in a pan for 2-3 minutes before tossing with the paste.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
This 5-minute Yamitsuki Cabbage is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute side dish or looking for a healthy snack to munch on, this recipe delivers every time. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s become a weekly staple in so many kitchens!
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