'Yamitsuki', the Japanese cabbage salad you'll want to make over and over again
'Yamitsuki' is a Japanese cabbage salad that's easy to prepare and is expected to trend in 2026.
The salad known as 'Yamitsuki' translates to 'addictive' and indeed lives up to its name by being an easy and delicious way to enjoy cabbage. Predicted to be a trending dish in 2026, it consists of cabbage, often referred to as 'shio kyabetsu', and is typically served in izakayas to cleanse the palate between rich dishes. The unique factor of Yamitsuki is the texture of the cabbage, which is both crunchy and slightly tender due to a massaging technique used during preparation. The dressing, a significant part of the salad's appeal, mixes sesame seeds and oil, garlic, black pepper, and salt, creating a robust flavor profile. Some variations also include additional ingredients that enhance the umami taste, contributing to the salad's addictiveness. This simple yet flavorful dish not only showcases the versatility of cabbage but also highlights the Japanese culinary technique of creating balance and texture, making it a compelling dish for both its taste and its potential role in future food trends.