| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 273 | 17g | 2g | 29g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 7g | 4g | 0.15g |
There are many dishes close to my heart, but not all are from the purely Italian heritage that my grandparents shared with me. One such recipe is the Sour Cabbage Coleslaw, a vibrant and tangy delight that offers a refreshing twist to the conventional coleslaw.
Family Heritage Met New Inspirations
I was raised in an Italian-American family, where dishes were hearty mixtures of my two homelands. Among numerous delicacies, Sour Cabbage Coleslaw pleases my palate the most. Why so? Simple – it’s because this recipe reminds me of my heritage, an amalgamation of Italian flavors and the fresh American produce.
Although it may not have originated from the classic Italian kitchen, the Sour Cabbage Coleslaw has an unique place in my cuisine, as it beautifully bridges my culinary past and the present. My Italian grandparents would have loved it. In fact, it bears some resemblance to my Nonna’s traditional Italian coleslaw that replaced mayonnaise with vinegar for an additional zing.
A Symphony of Health Benefits
What makes Sour Cabbage Coleslaw dear to me extends beyond flavor and memories. This coleslaw is a powerhouse of nutrition – a fantastic harmony of health benefits. The vibrant mix of green and red cabbage, amplified by the sweetness of apples and carrots, is an excellent source of antioxidants and dietary fiber.
Cabbage, being rich in Vitamin C and K, contributes significantly towards a healthy immune system and bone health. Apples, on the other hand, have been associated with a multitude of benefits, ranging from heart health to improved digestion. Its complement, the ever crunchy carrots, add a healthy dose of Vitamin A to the mix. Layer it all with a homemade mustard dressing, and you have a flavour-packed coleslaw that also contributes to your health. A win-win!
Navigating Culinary Pairings
This Sour Cabbage Coleslaw can stand on its own due to its unique balance of flavours, but it can also be an excellent accompaniment to various dishes. A serving of this coleslaw alongside a traditionally cooked Italian stuffed chicken breast or a simple grilled sausage would make for a well-rounded meal, appeasing all your taste buds.
But, truth be told, there’s no fixed rule when it comes to enjoying this coleslaw. Want a hearty lunch? Pair the coleslaw with some whole grain bread. Planning a weekend barbecue? Let this coleslaw be your go-to side. Whatever you pair it with, rest assured, the Sour Cabbage Coleslaw will only enhance your culinary experience.
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 medium red cabbage, shredded
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1 red apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of celery seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Start by preparing all the vegetables and fruits. Shred the medium head of green cabbage and 1/2 of the red cabbage. Then, grate two medium carrots. Slice both a green apple and a red apple thinly. Set all of these ingredients aside.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved in the liquid.
Step Three
Slowly pour 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil into the mixing bowl as you continue to stir the vinegar, sugar, and mustard mixture. This will help to emulsify the dressing.
Step Four
Add 1 tablespoon of celery seeds to the dressing mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then whisk the dressing until all the ingredients are fully combined.
Step Five
Add the shredded cabbages, grated carrots, and thinly sliced apples to the bowl with the dressing. Toss all the ingredients together until they’re evenly coated with the dressing.
Step Six
Allow the coleslaw to sit for at least one hour in the refrigerator before serving to let the flavors meld together. The sour cabbage coleslaw is now ready to enjoy!
