Easy Asian Slaw

Ingredients You’ll Need

Slaw Base:

1/2 medium head green cabbage, thinly shredded (about 4 cups / 280g)

1/4 medium head red cabbage, thinly shredded (about 2 cups / 140g)

2 large carrots, shredded (about 1.5 cups / 180g)

4-5 scallions, thinly sliced (green and white parts)

1/2 cup (30g) fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

1/4 cup (35g) toasted sliced almonds or cashews

2 tablespoons (20g) toasted sesame seeds

Optional: 1/2 cup (30g) crunchy chow mein noodles for extra texture

Sesame Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar

2 tablespoons (30ml) toasted sesame oil

1 tablespoon (15ml) light vegetable oil

2 tablespoons (30ml) tamari or soy sauce

1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 clove garlic, minced

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl

Small bowl or jar for dressing

Whisk or fork

Chef’s knife or mandoline

Cutting board

Grater or food processor for shredding carrots

Optional but helpful:

Salad spinner (to dry cabbage if washing)

Mason jar with lid (for shaking vinaigrette)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sesame Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, vegetable oil, tamari (or soy sauce), maple syrup (or honey), ginger, and garlic. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Assemble the Slaw

In a large salad bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro. Toss everything gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Dress the Slaw

Just before serving, pour the sesame vinaigrette over the slaw and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. This ensures maximum crunch and flavor without sogginess.

4. Add the Crunch

Top the slaw with toasted almonds or cashews, toasted sesame seeds, and chow mein noodles(if using). Give it one last gentle toss and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Results

Shred Cabbage Thinly: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to get the cabbage extra thin. This helps the vinaigrette soak in and gives a better mouthfeel.

Toast Your Nuts and Seeds: Toasting adds deeper flavor and more crunch. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden and fragrant.

Serve Fresh: Add the dressing and toppings right before serving to keep everything crisp.

Customize the Sweetness: Adjust maple syrup or honey to taste depending on how sweet or savory you like your slaw.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Nut-Free Version: Omit the almonds or cashews and add extra sesame seeds or sunflower seeds instead.

Add Protein: Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, baked tofu, or edamame to make it a meal.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the vinaigrette.

Low-Carb: Skip the chow mein noodles and replace the carrots with thinly sliced bell peppers.