Bavarian Cole Slaw

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: German

Bavarian Cole Slaw offers a tangy, sweet, and crunchy side with fresh vegetables and a flavorful vinegar dressing, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 head white cabbage
  • 1 large red onion
  • 2 shredded carrots
  • 1 green pepper sliced
  • 1 cup cider vinegar
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

  1. Toss sliced and shredded vegetables in a large bowl.
  2. In a small saucepan, bring cider vinegar, sugar, salt, celery seed, and dry mustard to a boil.
  3. Pour the hot dressing over the vegetables.
  4. Toss thoroughly to combine.
  5. Cover and chill for 4 hours.
  6. Toss before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of Dijon mustard to the dressing. You can substitute the olive oil with avocado oil for a different taste profile. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cabbage and carrots can save prep time. Be sure to taste the dressing before pouring it over the vegetables to adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Bavarian Cole Slaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or pork, making it a great side for summer barbecues. It also complements richer dishes such as Butter Bran Bread or Mushroom Sauerkraut Soup. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside sandwiches or as a topping on tacos.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve, so it's often tastier the next day. Avoid reheating, as cole slaw is best served cold. Just give it a good toss before serving again to distribute the dressing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bavarian Cole Slaw contains roughly 339 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 992mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

339 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 30.3g 39% DV
Carbs 17.1g 6% DV
Fiber 4.5g 16% DV
Sugar 5.6g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 991.8mg 43% DV
Potassium 463.7mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 434.5mcg 48% DV
Vitamin C 13mg 14% DV
Calcium 45.1mg 3% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 other types of cabbage?

Yes, you can use green cabbage or even Napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor. Each type will give the cole slaw a unique taste, so feel free to experiment according to your preference.

How long can I keep this cole slaw in the fridge?

This cole slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, it's best enjoyed within the first 2-3 days for optimal crispness and flavor. The dressing may cause the vegetables to soften over time.

Can I make this cole slaw vegan?

Absolutely! To make this cole slaw vegan, simply replace the honey or sugar with maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly, so you can enjoy this dish guilt-free.

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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