Description
This Pennsylvania Dutch Pepper Slaw is a Dutch country classic! This vinegar-based slaw features a sweet pickle brine and fresh bell peppers, making it a perfect no-mayo alternative.
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
- 1 medium head green cabbage (or 1/2 of a large head), core removed
- 1–2 carrots, peeled (any color works, but classic orange is my favorite)
- 2 green bell peppers, finely diced (or swap for red, yellow, or orange if you prefer a milder flavor)
- 2 teaspoons salt (helps draw out moisture and season the veggies)
For the Sweet & Tangy Vinegar Dressing:
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar (white vinegar works too, but apple cider gives the best flavor)
- 3/4 to 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste, or swap for honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon celery seed (adds a warm, old-fashioned flavor; optional but recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard (for a little zip—don’t skip it!)
Instructions
Start by grating or finely chopping the cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper nice and fine. A sharp knife, box grater, or food processor all work great for this.
Toss the grated veggies with salt in a big mixing bowl and let them sit for about 60 minutes. This helps pull out excess moisture so your slaw stays crisp, not watery. Once the time is up, drain off any liquid, gently squeezing out any excess liquid.
In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, water, celery seed, and dry mustard. Heat over medium, stirring just until the sugar dissolves—no need to boil. Once dissolved, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
Pour the slightly warm dressing over the drained veggies and toss well to coat everything evenly. Let it sit for at least 2 hours in the fridge before serving—overnight is even better! The flavors blend and the slaw gets more flavorful as the cabbage soaks up that sweet-and-tangy goodness.
Give the slaw a good toss before serving, and enjoy it with all your favorite meals!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rest Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 hours