Amish Coleslaw Recipe – Sweet & Tangy Homemade Slaw

Introduction

Fresh, crisp, and bursting with sweet and tangy flavor, Amish Coleslaw is a classic side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, and family dinners. Unlike traditional creamy coleslaw, this Amish-style version features a light vinegar-based dressing that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity while allowing the fresh vegetables to shine. Crisp cabbage, crunchy carrots, colorful bell peppers, and onions are tossed in a homemade dressing infused with celery seed and ground mustard for a refreshing salad that tastes even better after chilling overnight. It’s an easy make-ahead recipe that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fried chicken, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw

• 1 head green cabbage, cored
• 1 medium carrot, peeled
• 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

• ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Finely shred or grate the green cabbage and carrot. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the finely diced green bell peppers and sprinkle the vegetables with 2 teaspoons of salt. Toss well to coat.
3. Let the vegetables sit for 30–60 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture and keeps the coleslaw crisp.
4. Drain the liquid released from the vegetables, then gently squeeze out any remaining moisture using clean hands or a kitchen towel. Return the vegetables to the bowl.
5. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, water, celery seed, and ground mustard.
6. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and let the dressing cool slightly.
7. Add the thinly sliced onion to the vegetable mixture.
8. Pour the slightly warm dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated.
9. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
10. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop fully.
11. Toss once more before serving and enjoy chilled.

Conclusion

This Amish Coleslaw is a deliciously crisp and refreshing side dish that’s full of sweet, tangy flavor and simple homemade goodness. The vinegar-based dressing keeps it light and flavorful, making it the perfect accompaniment to barbecue, fried chicken, burgers, pulled pork, sandwiches, or holiday meals. Best of all, it tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe for entertaining or meal prep. Once you try this classic Amish favorite, it’ll become a staple at your table year-round.