Recipes→Czech Republic→Zelný salát s kmínem

Zelný salát s kmínem

A refreshing and simple Czech cabbage salad, often served as a side dish. It features finely shredded cabbage dressed with a tangy vinaigrette seasoned with caraway seeds, offering a crisp texture and a hint of anise.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Zelný salát s kmínem - Czech Republic traditional dish

đź§‚ Ingredients

  • 1 medium head White cabbage(finely shredded)
  • 1 medium Carrot(grated)
  • 0.5 small Red onion(thinly sliced)
  • 4 tbsp White wine vinegar
  • 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp Sugar
  • 1 tsp Caraway seeds(lightly toasted)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 2 tbsp Fresh dill or parsley(chopped, for garnish (optional))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and thinly sliced red onion.

    đź’ˇ Tip: For easier shredding, remove the tough outer leaves of the cabbage and quarter it, then core it before shredding.
  2. 2

    In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

    đź’ˇ Tip: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed. The balance of sweet, sour, and salty is key.
  3. 3

    Add the lightly toasted caraway seeds to the dressing and stir.

    đź’ˇ Tip: To toast caraway seeds, gently heat them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. 4

    Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.

    đź’ˇ Tip: Massage the cabbage gently with your hands for a minute or two to help soften it and absorb the dressing.
  5. 5

    Let the salad sit for at least 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

    đź’ˇ Tip: This salad can be made a few hours in advance, but it's best served within a day for optimal crispness.

đź’ˇ Pro Tips

  • âś“If you prefer a softer salad, you can lightly salt the cabbage and let it sit for 15 minutes, then squeeze out the excess liquid before adding the dressing.
  • âś“Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • âś“Add a pinch of celery seed for another dimension of flavor.

🔄 Variations

  • Add finely chopped bell peppers (red or green) for color and crunch.
  • Incorporate some cooked and cooled green peas for added sweetness and texture.
  • For a heartier salad, add some cooked and cooled pasta or quinoa.

🏷️ Tags