Kickin Classic Coleslaw
Recipe Introduction: Kickin' Classic Coleslaw
Fancy a coleslaw recipe that actually tastes amazing? One that isn't just a soggy mess of mayo and sadness? I've got you covered. My "Kickin' Classic Coleslaw" is where it's at.
What’s the Story Behind This Cabbage Slaw?
This coleslaw isn't your nan's watery attempt at salad. Honestly, it's inspired by proper American coleslaw , the kind you get piled high next to BBQ ribs.
It's crisp, crunchy, and has a tangy sweet kick.
We are not talking about some fancy thing. This is proper comfort food. It's a doddle to make. It only takes 20 minutes to prep, needs 30 minutes to chill, and feeds 6-8 people.
Winner winner, coleslaw dinner!
Why This Coleslaw Recipe Is a Game Changer
Forget boring salads! This creamy coleslaw is loaded with vitamin C from the cabbage. This recipe is so easy you'll find yourself making your own homemade coleslaw all the time.
This best coleslaw is the ultimate side dish for summer barbecues. It cuts through the richness of grilled meats perfectly.
Trust me, you'll be the star of the BBQ when you bring this along.
Ready to ditch the jarred stuff and make some magic? Let's gather our bits. The recipe that follows can be made as a vinegar coleslaw or no mayo coleslaw .
So read on my friend to find out more about this coleslaw for BBQ .
Ingredients & Equipment
Right, let's talk grub! This coleslaw recipe is proper simple. It is all about fresh ingredients and a little elbow grease.
Ditch the shop bought stuff. This homemade coleslaw will knock your socks off. Honestly, it is the best coleslaw you will ever make, I promise.
Main Ingredients
- Green Cabbage: 2 lbs (900g), finely shredded. Look for a firm, heavy cabbage.
- Carrots: 8 oz (225g), peeled and shredded. Opt for vibrant, firm carrots.
- White Onion: 4 oz (115g), finely diced. White onions should be firm and crisp.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup , finely chopped.
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (120ml). Full fat or light works great, your choice!
- Sour Cream: 1/4 cup (60ml), or Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt adds a tangy kick!
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30ml).
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons (25g).
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml).
- Celery Seed: 1 teaspoon (5ml).
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1ml), or more to taste. Adds a bit of zing.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Seasoning Notes
Celery seed is crucial for coleslaw dressing . It gives that proper coleslaw flavor. Cayenne pepper? It is my little secret for a bit of heat.
I love a creamy coleslaw with a kick! If you are making coleslaw for BBQ , don't be afraid to experiment! No celery seed? Use a pinch of celery salt instead.
Honestly, don't stress too much. Taste and adjust. That is how you make it your own easy coleslaw recipe . You know?
Equipment Needed
- Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing everything together.
- Whisk: For making the dressing smooth.
- Box Grater: For shredding veggies (food processor works too).
- Sharp Knife: For dicing that onion.
- Cutting Board: For chopping those veggies.
Don't have a box grater? Just use a knife. It'll take a bit longer, but you'll get there! No fancy equipment is necessary for this cabbage slaw recipe.
Some folks like vinegar coleslaw , and some prefer no mayo coleslaw . Either way, you can always adjust the coleslaw dressing to your own liking.
Just remember not to be afraid to improvise!
Right then, let's get this show on the road, shall we? A proper coleslaw recipe is a thing of beauty.
It is the cornerstone of any good barbeque, fish and chips night, or even a simple sandwich. Forget that gloopy stuff from the supermarket; we're aiming for something fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious!
Kickin' Classic Coleslaw : How to Get It Done
This isn't your nan's soggy coleslaw . Oh my gosh! We're talking crisp cabbage and carrots. All tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet, and ever-so-slightly spicy dressing.
It'll have you coming back for more. It's the perfect side to ribs, burgers, or anything hot off the grill.
The secret to this easy coleslaw recipe ? Freshness, baby!
Prep Power: Your Cabbage Slaw Essentials
First things first, mise en place , my friends! Get everything prepped and ready. Shred your 2 lbs cabbage, peel and shred those 8 oz carrots.
Dice that 4 oz onion, and chop a ¼ cup parsley. Honestly, it makes the whole process smoother than a pint of Guinness.
step-by-step: Creamy Coleslaw Magic
Okay, here's where the magic happens. Follow these simple steps. You'll have the best coleslaw for BBQ ever!
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss together shredded cabbage, carrots, onion, and parsley.
- Dressing Time: Whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon celery seed, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne.
- Taste: Give that dressing a taste. Adjust sweetness, tanginess, or spice as you like it.
- Coat: Pour that coleslaw dressing over the veggies.
- Toss: Toss it all together until everything is nicely coated.
- Chill: Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets those flavors meld. Don't skip this step!
- Serve: Give it one last toss and serve it with pride.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Homemade Coleslaw
Want to elevate your vinegar coleslaw game? Here are a couple of secrets.
- Shredding Matters : Finely shredded cabbage is key. It makes for a better texture and prevents that tough, chewy bite.
- Don't drown it : Start with less dressing. You can always add more, but you can't take it away. Soggy coleslaw is a crime.
- make-ahead option: You can make the dressing 1-2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just don't dress the coleslaw until you're ready to serve it.
No Mayo Coleslaw Alternative
Want to try something different? Consider no mayo coleslaw . Try experimenting with a tangy vinaigrette using lemon juice or vinegar. It is really refreshing!
There you have it. A cracking coleslaw recipe! This is bound to impress your mates at the next BBQ. Get shredding!
Recipe Notes
Alright, so you're ready to make some coleslaw . Ace! Here's a few extra bits 'n' bobs to make sure your homemade coleslaw is top-notch.
Honestly, this easy coleslaw recipe is proper simple. But these tips elevate it.
Serving Suggestions Get Your Presentation On!
Right, presentation. It's all about making it look smashing. Serve this creamy coleslaw in a cute bowl. Even a simple white one looks great.
Think about piling it high! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pairs wonderfully with anything from the barbie. Especially good with pulled pork or ribs.
And don't forget your bevvie! A crisp beer or iced tea is the classic choice. Oh my gosh, it’s lush!
Storage Tips - Keep It Fresh!
Okay, so you've got some leftover cabbage slaw which is highly unlikely given how good it is. No worries! Pop it in an airtight container.
Bung it in the fridge. It'll happily keep for 3 days. Freezing? Not recommended, mate. The mayo splits. No one wants soggy coleslaw ! Reheating? Nope.
This is a cold dish. Honestly, just enjoy it chilled.
Variations Spice It Up!
Fancy a twist? For a no mayo coleslaw version, swap the mayo for extra sour cream or Greek yogurt. Add a squeeze of lemon.
Boom! Dietary adjustments are easy. Want a bit of heat? A pinch of chilli flakes does the trick. Seasonal swaps? Use different cabbages, like red cabbage.
Gives it a festive vibe. You know?
Nutrition Basics Goodness in Every Bite
Let's be honest. It has veg in it. Coleslaw gives you some fibre from the cabbage and carrots. Not exactly health food, but not bad either.
A serving of this best coleslaw has about 150-200 calories. Not too shabby. There’s some vitamins in those veggies, too.
This coleslaw dressing is packed full of vitamin C which is good for you.
Honestly, go on. Get stuck in and make this coleslaw for BBQ . You won't regret it. Trust me, you got this! Enjoy this easy vinegar coleslaw recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does coleslaw last in the fridge? I don't want it going off before the barbeque!
Properly stored, your Kickin' Classic Coleslaw should last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other fridge odours - nobody wants coleslaw that tastes of last night's curry!
However, keep an eye out for excessive liquid or a sour smell, as those are signs it's past its prime.
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! In fact, making coleslaw a few hours in advance is actually recommended. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, and the cabbage softens just enough, but not too much.
Just be aware that it might release some liquid as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving and consider draining off any excess moisture.
I'm not a fan of mayonnaise. Can I make coleslaw without it?
You bet! While mayonnaise provides that creamy base, you can definitely experiment. Try using all sour cream or Greek yogurt (or a vegan alternative) for a tangier coleslaw. You could even create a vinaigrette based dressing with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey for a lighter, brighter flavour think less "chippy side," more "summer salad".
What are some good variations on the traditional coleslaw recipe? I'm feeling a bit adventurous!
Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a spicy kick, add some finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. Alternatively, you could add some chopped apple or pineapple for a fruity twist.
If you're feeling fancy, try adding some toasted nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavour - a real "chef's kiss" moment!
My coleslaw is always soggy. What am I doing wrong? How to make coleslaw less soggy?
Soggy coleslaw is a common problem, but easily avoided! First, don't overdress it start with less dressing and add more to taste. Secondly, make sure your vegetables are properly drained after shredding.
Some people even like to lightly salt the shredded cabbage and let it sit for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture before rinsing and drying it well. Finally, don't dress the coleslaw too far in advance, maybe 1-2 hours max before serving.
Is coleslaw healthy? I'm trying to be good, but I love a good dollop of coleslaw with my BBQ.
Coleslaw can be part of a healthy diet! It contains fiber and vitamins from the cabbage and carrots. To make it even healthier, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the dressing to cut down on fat and calories, and go easy on the sugar.
Remember, portion control is key a small serving alongside your BBQ is perfectly fine, even if you're channeling your inner health guru!
Kickin Classic Coleslaw
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 150-200 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12-15g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
