100 Year Old German Slaw Dressing

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: German

A tangy, sweet German slaw dressing made with vinegar, sugar, and aromatic spices, perfect for complementing shredded cabbage and adding a nostalgic flavor to salads.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon onion juice or grated onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons celery seed

Instructions

  1. Cook water and sugar together until the mixture spins thread.
  2. Remove from heat and add vinegar, onion juice or grated onion, salt, and celery seed.
  3. Allow the dressing to cool and store in the refrigerator for a month or more.
  4. Toss with shredded cabbage before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter dressing, you can increase the sugar slightly or use a combination of honey and sugar. If you don't have onion juice, finely grated onion works well; just be sure to strain it for a smoother consistency. Celery seed adds a distinct flavor, but you can substitute with caraway seeds if desired. This dressing can also be used to enhance a variety of salads or dishes, including a refreshing Gingered Melon And Grape Salad.

Serving Suggestions

Toss this slaw dressing with freshly shredded cabbage for a classic German-style slaw. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and is a perfect side for picnics or barbecues. Consider serving alongside Bavarian Potatoes(Non-Dairy) for a hearty meal or use it as a zesty drizzle on sandwiches for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a month or more, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. If it thickens, simply stir it before using. For best results, use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 100 Year Old German Slaw Dressing contains roughly 166 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 998mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

166 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 0.4g
Carbs 38.6g 14% DV
Fiber 5.3g 19% DV
Sugar 9g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 997.7mg 43% DV
Potassium 367.4mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 43.6mg 48% DV
Calcium 46.3mg 4% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of vinegar for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile. Each type of vinegar will give a unique taste to the dressing, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.

How long does the dressing last in the refrigerator?

The dressing can last in the refrigerator for a month or more. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor. Just give it a good stir before using, especially if it has settled.

What can I use this dressing on besides cabbage?

This dressing is versatile and can enhance many dishes. Try it on coleslaw, mixed greens, or even as a marinade for grilled vegetables. It also works well as a tangy sauce for sandwiches or wraps, adding a delicious kick.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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