Aunt Ismay's Coleslaw Recipe

Prepare vegetables

Remove the outer leaves from the cabbages if wilted. Quarter the green cabbage, remove core, then thinly slice (shred) to measure 6 cups packed. Thinly slice the red cabbage and measure 2 cups. Peel and grate carrots to make 1 1/2 cups. Very thinly slice 1/2 cup yellow onion. Finely chop parsley.

Place the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced onion, and chopped parsley together in a large mixing bowl.

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly with clean hands or tongs to distribute and to begin wilting the cabbage slightly. Let sit while you make the dressing (10 minutes) so flavors meld and cabbage softens a bit.

In a medium bowl or measuring cup, whisk together 3 tablespoons mayonnaise and 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth.

Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon celery seed, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, and a few drops of hot sauce if using. Whisk until sugar dissolves and the dressing is creamy and uniform.

Season the dressing with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust: add up to 1/2 teaspoon more sugar if you prefer sweeter slaw, or up to 1 tablespoon more vinegar for brighter tang.

If you prefer a thinner dressing, whisk in 1 to 2 teaspoons cold water until you reach desired consistency.

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Using two large spoons or clean hands, toss everything thoroughly so all vegetables are evenly coated.

Taste and adjust final seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar or lemon juice as preferred.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving (1–2 hours is better). This resting time allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to meld in classic Aunt Ismay style.

Give the slaw a final toss before serving. If excess liquid accumulates, drain a little off or stir it back in if you prefer a looser texture.