Turnip Zoni
A simple yet meaningful bowl, embodying the traditions of Yamaguchi

About Turnip Zoni

Turnip Zoni (かぶ雑煮, Kabu Zoni) is a heartwarming traditional dish widely enjoyed in Hagi City and surrounding areas in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Especially beloved as a New Year’s staple, it features round mochi (rice cakes), turnips, and mitsuba (Japanese parsley) served in a light soy sauce-based clear soup. The round mochi, cooked without grilling, pairs beautifully with the slightly thickened broth, while the gentle sweetness of the turnip adds a comforting depth to the flavor. A distinctive touch lies in adding thinly sliced dried squid, knotted to enhance both the aroma and presentation.

This dish carries a symbolic meaning, as the inclusion of turnips (kabu) is associated with the phrase "raising one’s status" (a wordplay on "kabu" in Japanese). For generations, it has been cherished as a celebratory meal. As part of local traditions, families gather at the year’s end, where men prepare rice cakes while women cook New Year’s dishes. Turnip Zoni is simple yet deeply rooted in the culture and heritage of the region, making it a truly special dish.

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