Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw

A light, crisp cabbage slaw tossed with carrot, red onion and green onions, finished with sesame seeds and a savoury sesame dressing. Fresh, crunchy and full of flavour, this slaw is perfect for dumpling tacos, rice bowls, lettuce wraps and grilled meats.

Simple crunchy slaws appear in many Asian-inspired dishes because they bring balance to rich or crispy foods.

This version is one I often make when cooking dumplings, tacos or rice bowls. It’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients that are usually already in the fridge.

The dressing is light and savoury with soy, sesame oil, a touch of honey and garlic. Tossed through crisp cabbage and finished with sesame seeds, it creates the perfect fresh contrast to warm, crispy dishes.

Prep: 10 min · Serves: 4 · Cuisine: Asian · Category: Salad

Ingredients

Slaw

• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 carrot, julienned or grated
• 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Dressing

• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp oyster sauce
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• ½ garlic clove, finely crushed

Method

1. Place the shredded cabbage into a large bowl. Add the carrot, sliced red onion and green onion. Toss lightly to combine.
2. In a small bowl whisk together: Soy sauce, lemon juice, sesame oil, honey, oyster sauce, white pepper, crushed garlic Whisk until the honey has fully dissolved.
3. Just before serving, pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top and gently toss once more. Serve immediately for maximum crunch.

Notes

• Dressing the slaw just before serving keeps the cabbage crisp

• The sesame seeds add a gentle nutty flavour and texture

• This slaw pairs beautifully with dumplings, tacos, grilled meats and rice bowls