Tsukemono
Japanese Pickled Napa Cabbage
A simple and quick method for making Japanese pickles (tsukemono) using Napa cabbage. These pickles are a staple accompaniment to many Japanese meals, offering a refreshing, salty, and slightly tangy counterpoint to richer dishes. This recipe focuses on a fast pickling technique.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Napa cabbage
- 2 tbsp Salt
- 1 piece Kombu (dried kelp)
- 1/2 - 1 tsp Ichimi Togarashi (Japanese chili flakes)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cabbage: Place the chopped Napa cabbage in a large bowl. Sprinkle the salt evenly over the cabbage. Gently massage the salt into the cabbage leaves with your hands for about 2-3 minutes, until the cabbage begins to soften slightly and release some moisture. This process helps to draw out water and tenderize the cabbage.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Add flavorings and weight: Tear the kombu into smaller pieces or cut it into strips. Add the kombu and optional chili flakes to the bowl with the salted cabbage. If using, gently mix them in. Place a plate or a smaller bowl on top of the cabbage mixture. Put a weight on top of the plate to press down. A good weight can be a jar filled with water, a bag of rice, or a clean brick. The weight helps to press out more liquid and ensure even pickling.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Pickle: Let the mixture sit at room temperature for a minimum of 2 hours. During this time, the cabbage will continue to release liquid, and the flavors will meld. You can check after 2 hours to see if the cabbage has reached your desired tenderness and flavor. For a more developed flavor, you can let it pickle for up to 4-6 hours at room temperature, or refrigerate it for longer pickling periods (up to a few days).
⏱️ 2 hours (minimum) - 4
Drain and serve: Once the tsukemono has reached your desired level of pickling, remove the weight and the plate. Discard the kombu (it has imparted its flavor). Gently squeeze out any excess liquid from the cabbage. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (though it should be well-seasoned). Serve the tsukemono immediately as a side dish, or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for later use. It will continue to develop flavor in the refrigerator.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓This is a quick pickle method (asazuke) that relies on salt to draw out moisture and create a briny environment for flavor infusion.
- ✓While Napa cabbage is used here, this method can be adapted for many other vegetables. Ensure vegetables are cut to a similar size for even pickling.
- ✓Tsukemono is an essential part of a traditional Japanese meal, providing balance and freshness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Daikon radish: Slice thinly and salt as directed.
- Cucumber: Slice thinly (or into rounds) and salt.
- Eggplant: Cut into bite-sized pieces and salt.
- Additions: Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of sugar for a different flavor profile, though traditional quick pickles often rely solely on salt and umami from kombu.