Ingredients:

  • 1/2 head Green Cabbage (medium), finely shredded (approx. 600g)
  • 1/4 head Red Cabbage (optional), finely shredded (approx. 200g)
  • 3 large Carrots, peeled and coarsely grated (approx. 250g)
  • 1/4 small Red Onion (optional), very finely minced (approx. 30g)
  • 1 Tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 cup Full-fat Mayonnaise (240 ml)
  • 3 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (45 ml)
  • 1 Tbsp Granulated Sugar (15g)
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (5 ml)
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly ground Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Celery Seed (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Shred the Cabbage: Finely shred the green and red cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Aim for thin ribbons.
  2. Salt and Wait: Place all shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with 1 Tbsp of Kosher Salt and toss well to distribute. Allow the cabbage to sit for 15-20 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture.
  3. Rinse and Dry: Transfer the salted cabbage to a colander. Rinse briefly under cold water to remove excess salt, then shake vigorously. Transfer the slightly damp cabbage to a clean tea towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much residual water as possible. This step is essential for crunch.
  4. Add Remaining Veg: Return the dried cabbage to the bowl and mix in the grated carrots and finely minced red onion (if using).
  5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
  6. Season Dressing: Add the sugar, celery seed, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt (remembering the cabbage was salted). Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is creamy. The dressing should be tangy and slightly sweet.
  7. Dress the Slaw: Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the prepared vegetables. Toss gently and thoroughly until they are evenly coated. Add more dressing if needed, but ensure the slaw is coated, not swimming.
  8. Chill (The Waiting Game): Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, or ideally 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to develop and marry.
  9. Final Adjustment: Before serving, give the coleslaw a final stir. Check for seasoning and adjust with a tiny splash of vinegar or a grind of pepper if necessary.