German Style Sauerkraut Slaw
I still remember the first time I tasted a traditional German Style Sauerkraut Slaw at a local Oktoberfest celebration. The combination of the tangy sauerkraut, the crunch of the fresh cabbage, and the slight sweetness of the carrots was absolutely captivating. Since then, I've been on a mission to perfect my own version of this slaw, and I'm excited to share it with you today.
This recipe is all about balance and harmony - the balance between tangy and sweet, crunchy and soft, and the harmony of flavors and textures that come together to create a truly unforgettable side dish. Whether you're a fan of traditional German cuisine or just looking for a new and exciting way to add some crunch to your meals, this German Style Sauerkraut Slaw is sure to become a favorite.
One of the things that sets this slaw apart from others is the use of a combination of sauerkraut and fresh cabbage. The sauerkraut adds a depth of flavor and a tangy kick, while the fresh cabbage provides a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness. The carrots add a pop of color and a bit of sweetness, while the parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note.
This slaw is perfect for any time of year, but it's especially great during the fall and winter months when the weather is cooler and the flavors are heartier. It's also a great side dish to bring to potlucks and parties, as it's easy to make in large quantities and can be served at room temperature.
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of ingredients that are easily accessible at most grocery stores. We'll be starting with a base of sauerkraut, which we'll be mixing with some shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped parsley. We'll also be adding some onion and garlic for extra flavor, as well as a bit of caraway seed for a traditional German touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- It's a great side dish for any time of year, and can be served at room temperature
- The combination of sauerkraut and fresh cabbage provides a nice balance of flavors and textures
- The carrots and parsley add a pop of color and freshness to the dish
- The mayonnaise and oil add a rich and creamy texture to the slaw
- This recipe is perfect for potlucks and parties, as it can be made in large quantities and is easy to transport
Why This Recipe Works
The key to making a great German Style Sauerkraut Slaw is to balance the flavors and textures. The sauerkraut provides a tangy and slightly sour flavor, which is balanced by the sweetness of the carrots and the freshness of the parsley. The cabbage adds a nice crunch and a bit of bitterness, which is balanced by the richness of the mayonnaise and the savory flavor of the onion and garlic.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a combination of acidic and oily ingredients. The vinegar and lemon juice add a bright and tangy flavor, while the mayonnaise and oil add a rich and creamy texture. The caraway seed adds a nice depth of flavor and a bit of warmth, which helps to balance out the coolness of the slaw.
The resting time is also crucial in this recipe, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the slaw to chill and set. This helps to bring out the best flavors and textures in the ingredients, and ensures that the slaw is nice and refreshing.
Finally, the use of high-quality ingredients is essential in this recipe. Fresh and flavorful ingredients will make all the difference in the world, and will help to create a slaw that is truly unforgettable. So be sure to choose the best ingredients you can find, and don't be afraid to get creative and add your own twist to the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a combination of ingredients that are easily accessible at most grocery stores. The key players are the sauerkraut, cabbage, carrots, and parsley, which provide the bulk of the flavor and texture. The onion and garlic add a bit of depth and warmth, while the caraway seed provides a traditional German touch. The mayonnaise and oil add a rich and creamy texture, while the vinegar and lemon juice add a bright and tangy flavor.
When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose the freshest and highest-quality items you can find. This will make all the difference in the world, and will help to create a slaw that is truly unforgettable. Also, be sure to read the labels and choose a sauerkraut that is low in sodium and has no added preservatives.
- 1 cup (115g) sauerkraut, drained and rinsedChoose a sauerkraut that is low in sodium and has no added preservatives. Drain and rinse the sauerkraut to remove excess salt and tanginess.
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cabbageUse a combination of green and red cabbage for a nice color and flavor. Be sure to shred the cabbage finely, so it's easy to mix with the other ingredients.
- 1 cup (120g) grated carrotsUse a box grater or food processor to grate the carrots. This will help to release their natural sweetness and add a nice texture to the slaw.
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsleyChoose fresh and curly parsley for the best flavor and texture. Chop the parsley finely, so it's easy to mix with the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup (60g) mayonnaiseUse a high-quality mayonnaise that is low in sugar and has no added preservatives. This will help to add a rich and creamy texture to the slaw.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) apple cider vinegarChoose a high-quality apple cider vinegar that is made from real apples. This will help to add a bright and tangy flavor to the slaw.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) lemon juiceUse fresh and real lemon juice for the best flavor. This will help to add a nice acidity and brightness to the slaw.
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped onionUse a sweet and mild onion, such as a Vidalia or Maui onion. Chop the onion finely, so it's easy to mix with the other ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh and high-quality garlic for the best flavor. Mince the garlic finely, so it's easy to mix with the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon caraway seedChoose a high-quality caraway seed that is fresh and aromatic. This will help to add a traditional German touch to the slaw.
- 1/2 teaspoon saltUse a high-quality salt that is low in additives and preservatives. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients and add a nice texture to the slaw.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepperUse a high-quality black pepper that is fresh and aromatic. This will help to add a nice depth and warmth to the slaw.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make German Style Sauerkraut Slaw
- 1In a large bowl, combine the sauerkraut, shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine, until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 2In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This will help to create a smooth and creamy dressing for the slaw.
- 3Add the dressing to the slaw mixture and mix well to combine, until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
- 4Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slaw mixture and mix well to combine. This will help to add a bit of depth and warmth to the slaw.
- 5Add the caraway seed to the slaw mixture and mix well to combine. This will help to add a traditional German touch to the slaw.
- 6Taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- 7Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld together and the slaw to chill and set.
- 8After 30 minutes, remove the slaw from the refrigerator and give it a good stir. This will help to redistribute the ingredients and ensure that the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
- 9Taste the slaw again and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- 10Serve the slaw chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This will help to add a fresh and herbaceous note to the slaw.
- 11The slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will help to allow the flavors to meld together and the slaw to chill and set.
- 12When serving the slaw, be sure to give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- 13The slaw can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place the slaw in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve the slaw, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir.
Expert Tips
- Use a high-quality sauerkraut that is low in sodium and has no added preservatives.
- Choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix the slaw, as this can cause it to become soggy and unappetizing.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed, to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- Add the dressing to the slaw mixture just before serving, to help prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.
- Use a box grater or food processor to grate the carrots, to help release their natural sweetness and add a nice texture to the slaw.
- Choose a high-quality mayonnaise that is low in sugar and has no added preservatives.
- Add the caraway seed to the slaw mixture for a traditional German touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a low-quality sauerkraut that is high in sodium and has added preservatives.
- Overmixing the slaw, which can cause it to become soggy and unappetizing.
- Not adjusting the seasoning as needed, which can cause the slaw to be unbalanced and flavorless.
- Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can cause the slaw to be bland and unappetizing.
- Adding the dressing to the slaw mixture too far in advance, which can cause the slaw to become soggy.
- Not chilling the slaw for at least 30 minutes, which can cause the flavors to not meld together properly.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add some diced bell peppers or onions to the slaw for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a different type of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, for a different flavor profile.
- Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or basil, for a different flavor profile.
- Use a different type of cabbage, such as red cabbage or napa cabbage, for a different flavor and texture.
- Add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Use a different type of mayonnaise, such as Greek yogurt or sour cream, for a different flavor and texture.
- Add some chopped nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds, for extra crunch and flavor.
What to Serve With German Style Sauerkraut Slaw
This German Style Sauerkraut Slaw is perfect for serving as a side dish at any time of year. It's great with grilled meats, such as sausages or burgers, and it's also delicious with roasted vegetables or as a topping for salads.
Some other great ways to serve this slaw include as a topping for tacos or grilled cheese sandwiches, or as a side dish for soups or stews. It's also delicious as a snack on its own, or as a topping for crackers or chips.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
This German Style Sauerkraut Slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply place the slaw in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
The slaw can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place the slaw in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve the slaw, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir.
When reheating the slaw, be sure to do so gently, as high heat can cause the slaw to become soggy and unappetizing. Simply place the slaw in a bowl and microwave it for 30-60 seconds, or until it's warmed through. You can also reheat the slaw on the stovetop, simply place it in a pan over low heat and stir until it's warmed through.
It's also important to note that the slaw will become more flavorful and tangy as it sits, so be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sauerkraut should I use?
Use a high-quality sauerkraut that is low in sodium and has no added preservatives. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes, you can use a different type of cabbage, such as red cabbage or napa cabbage, for a different flavor and texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the slaw?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slaw, such as diced bell peppers or onions, for extra flavor and texture.
How long can I store the slaw?
The slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I reheat the slaw?
Yes, you can reheat the slaw, simply place it in a bowl and microwave it for 30-60 seconds, or until it's warmed through. You can also reheat the slaw on the stovetop, simply place it in a pan over low heat and stir until it's warmed through.
What's the best way to serve the slaw?
The slaw is perfect for serving as a side dish at any time of year. It's great with grilled meats, such as sausages or burgers, and it's also delicious with roasted vegetables or as a topping for salads.
Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the slaw ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply place the slaw in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the slaw?
Yes, you can freeze the slaw for up to 3 months. Simply place the slaw in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve the slaw, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir.

Ingredients
- 1 cup (115g) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cabbage
- 1 cup (120g) grated carrots
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup (60g) mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons (30g) apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15g) lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon caraway seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sauerkraut, shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine, until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This will help to create a smooth and creamy dressing for the slaw.
- Add the dressing to the slaw mixture and mix well to combine, until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slaw mixture and mix well to combine. This will help to add a bit of depth and warmth to the slaw.
- Add the caraway seed to the slaw mixture and mix well to combine. This will help to add a traditional German touch to the slaw.
- Taste the slaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld together and the slaw to chill and set.
- After 30 minutes, remove the slaw from the refrigerator and give it a good stir. This will help to redistribute the ingredients and ensure that the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste the slaw again and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- Serve the slaw chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This will help to add a fresh and herbaceous note to the slaw.
- The slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will help to allow the flavors to meld together and the slaw to chill and set.
- When serving the slaw, be sure to give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help to ensure that the slaw is balanced and flavorful.
- The slaw can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place the slaw in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to serve the slaw, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir.