Sung Si Kyung's Japanese-style cabbage salad recipe is a super simple diet dish that comes together in just 5 minutes, offering a satisfying crunch and savory flavor perfect for a light meal or snack in 2026. This recipe is ideal for those looking for quick, healthy options that provide fullness without a lot of calories.
Why is Sung Si Kyung's Cabbage Salad Great for Dieting?
This cabbage salad, shared by Sung Si Kyung after his successful diet, features cabbage as its low-calorie star ingredient. Cabbage is often called a 'negative calorie' food because your body burns more calories digesting it than it contains. When I tried this salad, the natural sweetness of the cabbage combined with the nutty sesame oil and seeds created a surprisingly satisfying flavor that kept me full. It's important to note that the recipe includes minced garlic, which might cause mild stomach discomfort if eaten on an empty stomach in the morning, so adjusting the garlic amount is key. However, omitting it entirely can make the salad taste bland, so finding that balance is crucial.
The Secret to a 5-Minute Japanese-Style Cabbage Salad?
The biggest advantage of this recipe is its incredibly short preparation time. Start with about one-third of a medium cabbage (around 12 oz or 340g), remove the outer leaves, wash, and pat it dry. Place the shredded cabbage in a food container, add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of chicken stock powder, and 3 tablespoons of sesame oil. Be careful not to add too much chicken stock, as it can make the salad greasy; stick to the recommended amount. Once the ingredients are in, close the lid tightly and shake vigorously, much like a bartender mixing a cocktail. This shaking process can even be a fun way to relieve stress! Finally, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and give it one last shake. This salad is delicious immediately, but an extra shake helps prevent sesame seeds from sticking to the lid.
What Makes the Cabbage Salad's Flavor and Texture So Addictive?
Using raw cabbage instead of cooked gives this salad its signature crisp texture. The combination of the cabbage's natural sweetness, the rich flavor of sesame oil, and the aromatic punch of sesame seeds creates a taste reminiscent of the complimentary salads served at Japanese izakayas. The minced garlic adds a subtle, zesty kick that cuts through the richness, preventing the salad from feeling too heavy. While you can adjust the garlic to your preference or omit it, I found that a small amount significantly enhances the overall flavor balance. It's perfect as a light meal, a healthy addition to your diet plan, or even a stress-relieving snack.
Are There Any Precautions for Making Cabbage Salad?
While Sung Si Kyung's cabbage salad recipe is simple and delicious, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the amount of minced garlic: it's best to start with a small amount and add more to taste, especially if you're sensitive to garlic flavor or have a delicate stomach, as it can be potent on an empty stomach. Second, be mindful of the sesame oil. While it adds a wonderful nutty aroma, it's also high in calories, so use it moderately if you're focused on weight loss. Third, regarding washing the cabbage: although Sung Si Kyung mentioned only removing the outer leaves and not washing further, it's generally recommended to rinse the cabbage thoroughly under running water for hygiene, especially since it's consumed raw. Adjusting the ingredient quantities based on your personal health needs and dietary goals is always a wise approach.
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