Vietnamese Cabbage Slaw

Vietnamese Cabbage Slaw is a vibrant and flavorful salad that brings together the fresh and crisp elements of cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and scallions, all dressed in a tangy and spicy sauce. This slaw is a perfect accompaniment to any Vietnamese-inspired meal or as a refreshing side dish on its own. The combination of rice wine vinegar, hot sauce, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil creates a harmonious balance of flavors, while the addition of cilantro, ginger, and roasted peanuts adds a delightful depth to the dish. The best part about this recipe is that you have full control over the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili-garlic sauce you add. Prepare this Vietnamese Cabbage Slaw for a burst of freshness and bold flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 6 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon peeled and minced fresh ginger
• ⅓ cup roasted peanuts, chopped

PREPARATIONS:

1. Whisk the rice wine vinegar, hot sauce, and soy sauce in a large bowl, then whisk in the toasted sesame oil.
2. Add the shredded green cabbage, julienned carrots, bean sprouts, thinly sliced scallions, chopped fresh cilantro, and minced ginger to the bowl, and mix well.
3. Let the slaw sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Before serving, top the slaw with the chopped roasted peanuts.

SERVES:

• 6

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your preference for spiciness. Increase or decrease the quantity to suit your taste.
• Feel free to add more fresh herbs like mint or basil for additional aromatic flavors.
• If you prefer a sweeter slaw, you can add a teaspoon or two of honey to the dressing.

TIPS:

• To save time, you can purchase pre-shredded cabbage from the store.
• For a nut-free option, you can omit the roasted peanuts or replace them with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.
• The longer the slaw sits, the more the flavors will develop. Consider making it a few hours ahead of time or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
• This Vietnamese Cabbage Slaw pairs well with grilled meats, spring rolls, or as a refreshing topping for banh mi sandwiches.

In conclusion, Vietnamese Cabbage Slaw is a fantastic salad that combines the freshness of cabbage, the crunch of carrots and bean sprouts, and the aromatic flavors of scallions, cilantro, and ginger. The tangy and spicy dressing, made with rice wine vinegar, hot sauce, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil, elevates the slaw to a whole new level of deliciousness. The ability to adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili-garlic sauce allows you to customize the slaw according to your preferred spiciness.

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish to a Vietnamese meal or as a refreshing salad on its own, it never fails to impress. The vibrant colors and contrasting textures make it visually appealing, while the combination of flavors keeps your taste buds excited.

To save time, you can use pre-shredded cabbage from the store, making the preparation process even easier. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as mint or basil for a unique twist. If you have a sweet tooth, a teaspoon or two of honey can be added to the dressing to balance out the tanginess.

It’s important to allow the slaw to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and develop, resulting in a more pronounced and harmonious taste. However, if you have more time, consider letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator for an even better flavor infusion.

Vietnamese Cabbage Slaw is a versatile and refreshing dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a zesty and crunchy salad, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the burst of flavors, the delightful textures, and the customizable heat level that this slaw brings to your table.