Go Back

Asian Coleslaw

Bright and crisp Asian coleslaw perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or stir-fries, ready in just 15 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 68 side servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Slaw
  • 1 small head napa cabbage thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
  • 2 cups red cabbage thinly sliced
  • 3 medium carrots cut into thin matchsticks
  • 4 green onions sliced into thin rounds
  • 3 tablespoons sesame seeds toasted
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts or almonds optional
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt for initial salting
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Serving utensils or salad servers

Method
 

  1. Slice the napa cabbage in half lengthwise, then cut into thin ribbons about 1/4 inch wide.
  2. Slice the red cabbage as thinly as possible using a sharp knife or mandoline.
  3. Cut carrots into thin matchsticks about 2 inches long.
  4. Place sliced napa and red cabbage into a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, tossing well to distribute.
  5. Allow the salted cabbage to rest for 5 minutes.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, honey, red pepper flakes, and lime juice until fully combined.
  7. Add carrots, green onions, cilantro, and crushed nuts to the cabbage in the large bowl.
  8. Pour the finished dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss vigorously for about 1 minute.
  9. Scatter toasted sesame seeds over the top of the finished slaw just before serving.

Notes

This slaw can be made ahead of time; keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.