German Style Cabbage Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

German Style Cabbage Salad is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. The finely shredded cabbage provides a satisfying crunch, while the vinegar sauce adds a sharp, tangy contrast that brightens up the dish. The addition of sweet onion and celery seed gives the salad depth, while the sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar. This salad is ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish to rich, hearty meals.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cabbage (finely shredded)
• 1 cup sweet onion (minced)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Vinegar Sauce:

• 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the cabbage and onion:
   Finely shred the cabbage and place it in a large bowl. Mince the sweet onion and add it to the cabbage. Set aside.
2. Make the vinegar sauce:
   In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, yellow mustard, celery seed, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are dissolved and the mixture is heated through.
3. Combine the cabbage and sauce:
   Pour the hot vinegar sauce over the shredded cabbage and onions. Stir well to combine and ensure the cabbage is evenly coated in the dressing.
4. Let it sit:
   Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The salad can also be refrigerated for up to 2-3 hours before serving, which helps the cabbage soften and absorb more of the dressing.
5. Serve:
   Give the salad one final stir before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or extra onions, if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people and takes approximately 40 minutes to prepare, including resting time for the salad to soak in the dressing.

Variations

• Add fresh herbs: You can add finely chopped parsley, dill, or caraway seeds for extra flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili peppers for a little heat.
• Add vegetables: Grated carrots or diced bell peppers can add color and sweetness to the salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. If desired, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, it’s even better when allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together.

2. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor, though apple cider vinegar is preferred for its tangy sweetness.

3. How do I know when the cabbage is finely shredded?

You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to shred the cabbage into thin strips. It should be thin enough to absorb the dressing but still have enough texture to maintain its crunch.

4. Can I add meat to this salad?

While this is traditionally a vegetarian side dish, you can add or sausage crumbles for extra protein and flavor.

5. Can I make this salad spicy?

Yes, you can easily adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes, chili powder, or finely diced hot peppers to the salad.

6. Can I use another type of oil for the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil or sunflower oil, though vegetable oil is typically used for a neutral flavor.

7. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the mustard label to ensure it’s gluten-free if you’re concerned about cross-contamination.

8. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes, feel free to add grated carrots, bell peppers, or even cucumbers for added texture and flavor.

9. How long will this salad last in the fridge?

The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may soften a bit, but the flavors will continue to develop.

10. Can I use yellow onion instead of sweet onion?

Yes, yellow onion can be used in place of sweet onion, but keep in mind that yellow onions are a bit more pungent, so you may want to adjust the amount to taste.

Conclusion

German Style Cabbage Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of meals. The combination of crunchy cabbage, tangy vinegar dressing, and sweet onions makes this salad a delicious side dish that complements grilled meats, sausages, or even a light summer meal. With its simple ingredients and versatile flavor, this salad will become a go-to in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it as a light and zesty addition to any meal!

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