German Cabbage Coleslaw Shredded Ham (Printable)

Smoky, tangy cabbage slaw with shredded ham and carrots, dressed in a classic German style. A hearty, easy side.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
02 - 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
03 - 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
04 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

→ Meats

05 - 1 cup smoked ham, shredded

→ Dressing

06 - 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
07 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
08 - 1 tablespoon honey
09 - 1/3 cup sunflower or neutral oil
10 - 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Place the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, and red onion in a large mixing bowl.
02 - Add the shredded smoked ham to the bowl and toss to distribute evenly throughout the vegetables.
03 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, sunflower oil, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
04 - Pour the dressing over the cabbage and ham mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Let the coleslaw rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped parsley immediately before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The smoky ham transforms ordinary coleslaw into something that feels substantial and satisfying
  • That German style dressing with caraway seeds adds an authentic depth you cannot find in store bought versions
02 -
  • The resting period is non negotiable I once skipped it and the vinegar was too sharp the vegetables were too crisp and it just tasted unfinished
  • Caraway seeds are what make this distinctly German without them it is just ham coleslaw not German ham coleslaw
03 -
  • Use a box grater or food processor to shred the cabbage if you want it extra thin and delicate
  • Taste the dressing before adding it sometimes you need a pinch more honey depending on how sharp your vinegar is
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