Crunchy Cabbage Slaw with Sesame-Ginger Dressing
In short: Shredded cabbage and carrots in a rice vinegar, soy, sesame oil and ginger dressing, topped with toasted sesame seeds. Crunchy and mayo-free. It takes about 22 min in total and makes 6 servings.
- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 2 min
- Resting
- 15 min
- Total
- 22 min
- Servings
- 6
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 135 kcal
This slaw has no mayonnaise at all: finely shredded cabbage and carrot tossed in a bright dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil and fresh ginger. It stays crunchy for a day or two, which makes it good for lunch boxes, picnics and potlucks. Serve it with grilled chicken, pork or fish, tuck it into burgers and wraps, or pile it on rice bowls and noodle dishes.
Instructions
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring, until golden. Tip them out to cool.
- Put the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, spring onions and cilantro in a large bowl and mix.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk or shake the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, neutral oil, maple syrup, ginger, garlic and chili flakes until combined.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss well with tongs.
- Let it stand for 15 minutes at room temperature so the cabbage softens slightly.
- Toss again, taste and adjust with more vinegar or soy sauce. Scatter the sesame seeds on top and serve.
Tips
- Slice the cabbage as thin as you can with a sharp knife or mandoline. A fine shred absorbs the dressing and is easier to eat.
- Edamame, mandarin segments, toasted peanuts or crispy noodles add extra crunch. Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Questions and answers
How long does sesame slaw last?
It keeps well for 2 days in the fridge. If you are making it ahead, add the sesame seeds and cilantro just before serving.
Can I use a bagged slaw mix?
Yes. A bag of coleslaw mix, about 400 g (14 oz), saves time. Add the spring onions and cilantro for freshness.
What do you serve this slaw with?
It goes well with grilled meat and fish, burgers, fried chicken, rice bowls, noodles and sandwiches.
How long does it take to make Crunchy Cabbage Slaw with Sesame-Ginger Dressing?
About 22 min in total: 20 min of preparation and 2 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Crunchy Cabbage Slaw with Sesame-Ginger Dressing?
About 135 kcal per serving, with 3 g of protein, 13 g of carbohydrates and 8 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 135 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
