When I think about perfect no fuss side dishes for the summer my grandmother’s coleslaw always comes to mind. My paternal grandparents were Gottscheers, descendents of a small colony founded in 1350 with only 300 families. Gottscheers lived in a small area within the Austro- Hungarian Empire only 331 square miles. Customs and ltheir own dialect was handed down generation to generation, as were recipes. My grandparents were part of the large emigration from their homeland to the United States in the early 1900’s. Gottscheers remained close once they arrived in the United States. My grandparents were part of the Gottscheer group living in Ridgewood, Queens. My grandparents and their friends would socialize often, which included Sunday night card games. this coleslaw was served many, many sunday nights and it brings to mind love, friendship and just having a good time.
From by the bay wishing you happy food memories with your friends and loved ones!
Maryann
Grandma’s Coleslaw with Warm Dressing
Serves Six
Ingredients
1 medium head of cabbage, quartered removing core
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup fine granulated sugar
2 teaspoons fine sea salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoon celery salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Directions
Using a mandoline over a large mixing bowl, finely shred one head of cabbage. Set aside. To make dressing bring to a boil in a small medium sauce pan the vinegar, sugar and sea stirring occasionally. Boil until the sugar and salt have dissolved. Slowly add the oil and bring back to a boil. Remove pan from heat and pour dressing over the cabbage. Add caraway seeds, celery salt and pepper. Mix well. Place into a mason jar or container. Store at room temperature or
in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.