Norwegian Cole Slaw
Norwegian Cole Slaw is a tangy, sweet vegetable side dish with crisp cabbage, crunchy celery, and vibrant green pepper, all infused with a flavorful vinegar and mustard seed dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing accompaniment to hearty meals, it offers a delightful crunch and balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shred the cabbage and toss it with the salt.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- In a saucepan, heat the sugar, vinegar, mustard seed, and celery seed.
- Cook until the sugar dissolves, about 10 minutes. Cool completely.
- Add the cooled dressing to the shredded cabbage along with the chopped celery and green pepper; toss well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 week before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, add grated carrots or substitute some cabbage with kale. Adjust the sugar to your taste; a little less can enhance the tanginess. If you prefer a spicier note, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using a spicy mustard. Always taste the dressing before mixing it in to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Serving Suggestions
This slaw is a delightful side for barbecues, picnics, or even holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with Yummy Bean Soup or grilled meats, offering a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a hearty sandwich or as a topping for fish tacos. The slaw's tangy sweetness complements rich dishes perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Norwegian Cole Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to two weeks, as the flavors continue to meld and develop over time. If you find that it becomes too watery, simply drain some of the liquid before serving. There's no need to reheat; serve it cold for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Cole Slaw contains roughly 20 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 587mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
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 cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with red cabbage for a vibrant color, or use napa cabbage for a milder flavor. Both variations will alter the texture slightly but will still work well in the recipe.
Is it necessary to refrigerate for a week?
While it's best after a week for the flavors to fully develop, you can enjoy it after just a couple of days. However, the longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes as the dressing penetrates the cabbage.
Can I make this slaw vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure that any additional ingredients or dressings you might use are also plant-based. The combination of vinegar and sugar provides a sweet and tangy flavor without any animal products.
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).