German Cabbage Coleslaw With Ham (Printable Version)

Smoky, tangy coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and smoked ham in a classic German-style dressing. Ready in 20 minutes.

# List of 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 oil or neutral oil
10 - 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, optional
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrot, and thinly sliced red onion.
02 - Add the shredded smoked ham to the vegetable mixture and toss to distribute evenly throughout.
03 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, sunflower oil, caraway seeds if using, salt, and black pepper until well blended and emulsified.
04 - Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and ham mixture, then toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Allow the coleslaw to rest for at least 10 minutes at room temperature to permit flavors to meld and integrate.
06 - Top with chopped fresh parsley immediately before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It holds up beautifully for hours without going soggy, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.
  • The smoky ham adds serious depth, turning ordinary cabbage into something you actually crave.
  • It comes together in one bowl with no cooking, so cleanup is almost nonexistent.
02 -
  • Don't skip the resting time, the cabbage needs those minutes to absorb the dressing and lose its raw edge.
  • If you add the caraway seeds, crush them lightly in your palm first to release their oils and deepen the flavor.
03 -
  • Use a mandoline or the slicing blade on a food processor to shred the cabbage evenly and save your wrists.
  • Taste the dressing before you pour it, it should be punchy and strong because the cabbage will dilute it as it sits.
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