Description of this recipe: This coleslaw recipe is a classic, creamy, and tangy side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any occasion where you need a refreshing and flavorful addition to your meal. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll love this coleslaw because it’s incredibly simple to prepare with readily available ingredients. The creamy dressing perfectly complements the crunchy vegetables, and the balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes it irresistible. It’s also a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Introduction
Coleslaw, a quintessential side dish gracing picnic tables and barbecue spreads across the nation, has a history as rich and varied as its many regional interpretations. While its exact origins are debated, the term “coleslaw” itself stems from the Dutch word “koolsla,” meaning “cabbage salad.” This connection hints at the dish’s likely roots in the culinary traditions of Dutch settlers who brought their cabbage-based recipes to America.
From its humble beginnings, coleslaw has evolved from a simple mixture of shredded cabbage and vinegar into a vibrant canvas of flavors and textures. Regional variations abound, each boasting its own unique twist on the classic recipe. Some versions embrace a sweet and creamy profile, while others lean towards a tangy and herbaceous flavor profile. Common additions include carrots, onions, peppers, and a variety of dressings ranging from mayonnaise-based to vinegar-based.
This particular recipe is my homage to the old-fashioned creamy coleslaw that evokes fond memories of childhood gatherings and summer cookouts. It’s a recipe that prioritizes simplicity and flavor, using readily available ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The key to its success lies in the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, achieved through a harmonious blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey.
The crispness of the shredded cabbage and the subtle sweetness of the grated carrot provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy dressing. The optional additions of celery seed and fresh parsley add depth and complexity to the flavor profile, elevating this coleslaw from a simple side dish to a culinary delight. Whether served alongside grilled burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or fried chicken, this old-fashioned creamy coleslaw is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the green and red cabbage. Remove any outer leaves that appear wilted or damaged. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, carefully shred both heads of cabbage into thin, even strips. Aim for a consistent size to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures. Place the shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl. Next, wash and peel the carrot. Using a grater, shred the carrot into fine strands. Add the grated carrot to the mixing bowl with the cabbage.
Step 2: Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth and emulsified dressing. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to your liking, keeping in mind that the coleslaw will continue to develop flavor as it sits.
Step 3: Combine and Coat: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture in the large mixing bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cabbage to become soggy. The goal is to ensure that every strand of cabbage and carrot is lightly coated with the creamy dressing.
Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, add the celery seed and fresh parsley to the coleslaw. Celery seed provides a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients, while fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note. Gently toss the coleslaw again to incorporate these additions.
Step 5: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill thoroughly. Chilling the coleslaw also helps to soften the cabbage slightly, resulting in a more pleasant texture. Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Barbecues: Serve alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or chicken.
- Sandwiches: Use as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, brisket sandwiches, or fish sandwiches.
- Picnics: Pack in a cooler for a refreshing and flavorful addition to your picnic spread.
- Fried Chicken: A classic pairing with crispy fried chicken.
- Fish Fry: Serve with battered and fried fish for a traditional fish fry meal.
Tips:
- Shredding the Cabbage: For the best texture, shred the cabbage thinly and evenly. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving consistent results.
- Making Ahead: Coleslaw can be made up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, the flavor often improves as it sits in the refrigerator.
- Adjusting the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, you can add more honey to the dressing.
- Adding Crunch: For added crunch, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the coleslaw.
- Varying the Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as shredded red onion, bell peppers, or radishes.
- Using Different Dressings: While this recipe calls for a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, you can also use a vinegar-based dressing for a tangier flavor.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Protein: 2 grams
Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
This old-fashioned creamy coleslaw recipe is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, flavorful dishes. With its creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, it’s a side dish that’s sure to please. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, picnic, or family gathering, this coleslaw is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to enjoy a taste of classic comfort food.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, I highly recommend making it at least a few hours in advance, or even the day before you plan to serve it. Allowing the coleslaw to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and enjoyable dish. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Q2: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A: While using pre-shredded cabbage is certainly a time-saver, I find that freshly shredded cabbage provides a better texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cabbage tends to be drier and less crisp than freshly shredded cabbage. However, if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, feel free to use pre-shredded cabbage. Just be sure to check the expiration date and choose a package that looks fresh.
Q3: I don’t have apple cider vinegar. Can I use another type of vinegar?
A: Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with another type of vinegar, such as white vinegar or white wine vinegar. However, keep in mind that the flavor of the coleslaw will be slightly different. Apple cider vinegar has a mild, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dressing. White vinegar has a more assertive flavor, so you may want to use a little less.
Q4: I’m not a fan of mayonnaise. Can I use something else?
A: If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream. These alternatives will provide a similar creamy texture, but the flavor will be slightly different. Greek yogurt will add a tangy note, while sour cream will add a richer flavor. You may need to adjust the other ingredients in the dressing to balance the flavors.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables to this coleslaw?
A: Absolutely! Coleslaw is a very versatile dish, and you can easily customize it to your liking. Some other vegetables that would work well in this coleslaw include shredded red onion, bell peppers, radishes, or even some chopped celery. Feel free to experiment and add your favorite vegetables to create a coleslaw that’s perfect for you.
