Amish Cole Slaw is a timeless side dish that brings a refreshing crunch to any meal. Rooted in simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe reflects the Amish tradition of fresh, homemade cooking. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors that complement everything from barbecue to sandwiches.
We love how easy it is to whip up this classic cole slaw with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand. Its vibrant texture and subtle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and potlucks. Let’s dive into this delicious Amish Cole Slaw recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Amish Cole Slaw, we start with fresh, crisp vegetables and prepare a creamy, tangy dressing that balances every bite. Below are the essential ingredients organized for easy preparation.
Vegetables
For the slaw’s signature crunch and vibrant color, we use these fresh vegetables:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage (about a quarter head for color contrast)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (optional for a mild pungency)
Dressing Ingredients
The dressing gives our Amish Cole Slaw its creamy texture and bright flavor. We combine these ingredients precisely:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | Base for creaminess |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Tangy acidity |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons | Subtle sweetness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Mild heat and depth |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds mild spice |
Each component works together to create a balanced dressing that complements the crunchy vegetables perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Amish Cole Slaw, having the right equipment is essential for achieving the ideal texture and flavor balance. Here’s what we need:
- Large Mixing Bowl: Choose a wide, deep bowl that allows ample space for tossing the shredded vegetables with the dressing without spilling.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife is crucial to finely chop the cabbage, carrots, and optional onions uniformly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Vegetable Peeler: Use this for peeling the carrots before shredding.
- Box Grater or Food Processor: To shred the cabbage and carrots quickly and consistently, a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment works best.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements of dressing ingredients such as mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard ensure the perfect tangy-sweet balance.
- Whisk or Fork: We use a whisk or a sturdy fork to blend the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Mixing Spoon: A large spoon helps evenly combine the dressing with the shredded vegetables.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Tossing ingredients without overflow |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Finely chopping vegetables |
| Vegetable Peeler | Peeling carrots cleanly |
| Box Grater/Food Processor | Shredding cabbage and carrots uniformly |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measurement of dressing ingredients |
| Whisk or Fork | Mixing the dressing to a smooth consistency |
| Mixing Spoon | Combining dressing with vegetables evenly |
Instructions
Follow these clear and precise steps to make our Amish Cole Slaw a crunchy, creamy delight. Each phase is essential to building the authentic flavors and texture that define this classic side dish.
Preparing the Vegetables
- Shred the cabbage: Use a sharp knife, box grater, or food processor to finely shred green and purple cabbage into thin, even strips.
- Peel and grate carrots: Peel the carrots with a vegetable peeler, then grate them finely to add vibrant color and sweetness.
- Chop the onion (optional): If desired, finely chop a small onion to bring extra flavor depth.
- Combine vegetables: Place shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped onion in a large mixing bowl. Toss together gently to mix evenly.
Tip: Shredding the vegetables uniformly ensures every bite has the perfect crunch and balanced flavor.
Making the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, measure and add the following using precise measuring spoons and cups:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Use a whisk or fork to blend the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely and the flavors combine perfectly.
“The dressing is the soul of our Amish Cole Slaw — tangy, sweet, and creamy all at once.”
Combining Ingredients
- Pour the well-mixed dressing over the bowl of shredded vegetables.
- Use a large mixing spoon or spatula to toss the slaw gently but thoroughly, coating every shred of vegetable with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time allows flavors to meld and the slaw to chill to the perfect refreshing temperature.
Pro tip: Toss the cole slaw once more before serving to redistribute the dressing and maintain that vibrant, creamy texture.
Directions for Serving
To serve our Amish Cole Slaw perfectly, follow these steps to ensure every bite is crisp and flavorful.
- Chill Thoroughly
Once mixed, refrigerate the cole slaw for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the dressing to meld with the shredded vegetables, creating a harmonious balance of creamy tang and fresh crunch.
- Final Toss
Before serving, give the slaw a gentle toss. This refreshes the texture and ensures the dressing is evenly distributed, maintaining that signature vibrant appearance and flavor.
- Portioning
Use a large serving spoon or tongs to transfer the cole slaw to individual plates or serving dishes. For gatherings, present it in a wide shallow bowl to showcase the colorful mix of green and purple cabbage with bright orange carrots.
- Ideal Pairings
Our Amish Cole Slaw pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled barbecue meats like pulled pork or brisket
- Classic deli sandwiches or burgers
- Crispy fried chicken or fish
- Presentation Tips
Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a few extra carrot shreds on top for a polished look. Serving chilled in a crisp white bowl highlights the dish’s vibrant colors.
| Serving Temperature | Serving Size | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Well chilled (cold) | 1/2 to 1 cup per person | Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days |
“Serving Amish Cole Slaw cold enhances its refreshing qualities, making it the perfect complement to hearty main dishes on a warm day.”
By following these directions for serving, we ensure our Amish Cole Slaw remains a standout on any table, delivering its traditional crispness and creamy, tangy flavor in every bite.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Amish Cole Slaw ahead of time ensures the flavors deepen and the texture stays refreshingly crisp. Here are key steps to make ahead successfully:
- Shred and Grate First: Begin by shredding the cabbage and grating the carrots as directed. Store these prepared vegetables in an airtight container or a zip-top bag with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Keep refrigerated up to 24 hours before assembling.
- Mix the Dressing Separately: Whisk together the dressing ingredients — mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Keep the dressing refrigerated in a sealed jar or container for up to 3 days. Stir well before use.
- Combine Just Before Serving: For best texture, toss the vegetables with the dressing shortly before serving. If you combine slaw and dressing too early, the cabbage can become soggy.
- Advance Assembly Option: If time is limited, you can mix the slaw and dressing up to 4 hours ahead. After mixing, cover tightly and refrigerate. Before serving, toss gently to re-fluff the slaw.
| Make-Ahead Step | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded cabbage & carrots | Airtight container, refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Prepared dressing | Sealed jar/container, refrigerated | 3 days |
| Combined slaw & dressing | Covered bowl, refrigerated | Up to 4 hours prior to serving |
“Chilling the slaw allows the creamy dressing to meld beautifully with the crisp vegetables, creating a balanced and delicious side dish every time.”
Additional Tip: Always give the slaw a gentle toss just before serving to brighten the flavors and restore the optimal crunch we love in Amish Cole Slaw.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Amish Cole Slaw fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps to maintain its crisp texture and creamy taste:
- Refrigerate Immediately: After preparation or serving, place any leftover slaw in an airtight container. This prevents moisture loss and absorbs unwanted odors from the fridge.
- Use Within Three Days: For optimal taste and texture, consume the slaw within 3 days of refrigeration. Beyond this period, the vegetables may become soggy, and the dressing can lose its zest.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended since it alters the texture of the cabbage and dressing, resulting in a watery and mushy slaw.
- Keep Dressing Separate When Possible: If prepping ahead, store the dressing and shredded vegetables separately. Combine them just before serving or within 4 hours prior to serving to preserve the crunch.
Here is a quick guide to our storage timeline for easy reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (Combined) | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container, toss before serving |
| Refrigerated (Separate) | Dressing: 3 days, Vegetables: 2 days | Combine shortly before serving |
| Freezing | Not recommended | Texture and flavor degrade |
“Tip: For the freshest slaw experience, always give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and revive the vibrant crunch.”
Proper storage ensures our Amish Cole Slaw Recipe delights us with the same fresh flavors day after day.
Conclusion
Amish Cole Slaw is more than just a side dish—it’s a simple, flavorful addition that elevates any meal. With its crisp texture and perfectly balanced dressing, it’s a recipe that’s easy to master and sure to impress.
By following the tips for preparation, serving, and storage, we can enjoy this classic slaw fresh and delicious every time. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of wholesome goodness to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential ingredients for Amish Cole Slaw?
The key ingredients include shredded green and purple cabbage, grated carrots, optional finely chopped onion, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
How do I prepare Amish Cole Slaw?
Shred cabbage and grate carrots evenly. Mix the vegetables in a large bowl. Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth, then combine with the veggies. Refrigerate at least one hour before serving for best flavor.
What equipment do I need for making Amish Cole Slaw?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, sharp knife, cutting board, vegetable peeler, box grater or food processor, measuring cups and spoons, whisk or fork, and a mixing spoon.
How long should I chill Amish Cole Slaw before serving?
Chill the slaw for at least one hour to allow flavors to blend and improve the texture. Give it a good toss before serving.
Can Amish Cole Slaw be made ahead of time?
Yes, shred the vegetables and store them in an airtight container with a paper towel. Keep the dressing separate and refrigerated for up to three days. Combine both just before serving or up to four hours ahead.
What dishes pair well with Amish Cole Slaw?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, barbecues, and fried foods due to its creamy, tangy, and crunchy profile.
How should I store leftover Amish Cole Slaw?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days. Keep the dressing separate if possible. Avoid freezing, as it ruins the texture.
Why is uniform shredding important in Amish Cole Slaw?
Uniform shredding ensures consistent texture and allows the dressing to coat all vegetable pieces evenly, enhancing flavor and crunch.
Can I add other vegetables to Amish Cole Slaw?
Traditional recipes focus on cabbage and carrots, but you may add finely chopped onions or other fresh veggies that complement the dish’s creamy and tangy flavors.
Is Amish Cole Slaw a healthy side dish?
Yes, it is made with fresh vegetables and a balanced creamy dressing, offering a refreshing, low-calorie side dish rich in fiber and vitamins.