Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head Napa Cabbage (Chinese Cabbage), finely shredded
  • 1/4 small head Red Cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 large Carrots, julienne or shredded
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
  • 4 stalks Spring Onions (Scallions), thinly sliced diagonally
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Coriander (Cilantro), packed, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds, toasted
  • 1 tablespoon White Sesame Seeds, toasted
  • 1 cup Crispy Fried Noodles (Optional)
  • 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar (Unseasoned)
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (or Tamari)
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Oil
  • 1/4 cup Neutral Oil (e.g., Rapeseed/Canola)
  • 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger, finely minced or grated
  • 1 clove Garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Fresh)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Chilli Flakes)
  • Salt and Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Toast the Garnish: Heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Add sliced almonds and sesame seeds. Toast for 3-4 minutes, shaking frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden brown. Transfer immediately to a separate bowl to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. Shred the Slaw: Finely shred both types of cabbage. Place the shredded cabbage into the large mixing bowl.
  3. Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the julienned carrots, sliced red pepper, spring onions, and coriander to the bowl. Toss the vegetables gently to combine.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, neutral oil, toasted sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), and lime juice until emulsified.
  5. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure the honey is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness/acidity as needed.
  6. Dress the Slaw: Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly using tongs until the vegetables are lightly coated.
  7. Chill (Crucial Step): Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften.
  8. Serve: Just before serving, give the slaw one last toss. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and crispy noodles (if using) over the top.