My kids like this because the cabbage is cooked well in this recipe and doesn't have that raw feel to it. I use package coleslaw in this as it means I can get dinner on the table quickly when I need to. I've tried other recipes, but the batter seems really bland to me. This version uses dashi, sake and soy sauce, which makes it seem more home-flavored to me. Add in whatever other protein sources along with or in lieu of the ham...I've seen shrimp, tuna, imitation crab and crab used with great success. Just make sure that there's enough batter to hold everything together.