Apple Fennel Slaw

Who said that slaw has to be only made with cabbage and mayo? In fact, with rare exception, I usually avoid traditional slaw like the plague! I have food service nightmares of mayo-based coleslaw sitting in big tubs roasting in the sun for hours. Only for... OK...OK... I am going to stop myself there. Therapy is next week!

Let's face it, slaw can really be anything that can be thinly sliced. In the case of this recipe, a duo of apples are married with fennel for an outstanding side dish that will stand up to just about any BBQ. It is a delicious twist on old school coleslaw.

This recipe calls for cardamom which is a member of the ginger family. It is used as a spice in cooking and can usually be found in the baking or spice section of your grocer. It is a bit more expensive that other spices but a vital part of the recipe that should not be omitted.

The sweet and tart of the apple duo is offset by the slight licorice flavor of the fennel. The addition of the vinegar and lime give it the tang. The cardamom, scallion and cilantro provide additional layers of flavor that results in a crunchy, complex and light side dish that is very pleasing.

Ingredients

Slaw

• 1 bulb fennel-stems and leaves removed
• 2 Granny Smith apples
• 2 Red Delicious apples

Dressing

• 2 Tbsp Olive oil
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 Tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 Tbsp chopped scallion
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar*
• 1-2 Tbsp sugar or sugar substitute
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom**
• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
  

Process

1. Core the apples - DO NOT peel the skin
   
   
2. Julienne or cut into thin matchsticks the fennel and apples
   
   
3. Combine all dressing ingredients and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper and sugar to taste
   
   
4. Toss fennel and apples with dressing
   
   
5. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours
   
   
6. Toss before serving

* Cider vinegar can be used in place of the rice vinegar

** While not a complete or adequate substitute, you can use equal parts ground nutmeg and cinnamon OR equal parts ground cloves and cinnamon in an emergency