Traditional Cabbage Coleslaw

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
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This traditional cabbage coleslaw is a crunchy, tangy delight that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. It's a simple yet flavorful side that can complement everything from a summer barbecue to a cozy indoor meal.

Ingredients for Traditional Cabbage Coleslaw

Green cabbage is the star of the show, providing a crisp texture and neutral flavor that soaks up the dressing beautifully. Carrot adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color, while also contributing to the crunch. The mayonnaise serves as the creamy base for the dressing, binding everything together with its rich consistency. Apple cider vinegar lends a tangy kick, balancing the creaminess with its sharpness. Sugar adds a hint of sweetness to round out the flavors. Finally, a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance all the other ingredients, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mandoline for uniform cabbage shreds, ensuring even texture throughout.
  • For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • If you're short on time, prepare the coleslaw a day in advance; the flavors only get better with time.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, such as barbecue chicken or pulled pork sandwiches. It's also a great companion to fried fish or served on top of tacos for a refreshing crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?
Sure! Purple cabbage will add a vibrant color and slightly different taste, but it works just as well.
How long can I store the coleslaw in the fridge?
It should stay fresh for 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Is there a way to make it spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Traditional Cabbage Coleslaw Recipe Walkthrough

Start by prepping your veggies. Grab a medium head of green cabbage and shred it finely. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor for this part, whichever you find easier. Next, peel and grate a large carrot. Combine these in a large mixing bowl. The goal here is to have them evenly mixed, so don't be shy about getting in there with your hands to toss everything together.

In a separate small bowl, you'll whip up the dressing. Measure out half a cup of mayonnaise and whisk it together with a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar. Add two tablespoons of sugar, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and everything is well combined.

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything together, making sure the veggies are well-coated. This is where the flavors start to meld, so take your time to ensure an even distribution.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together, giving the coleslaw its signature taste. Before serving, give it another quick toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • The balance of creamy and tangy flavors elevates any meal.
  • Uses just a handful of ingredients that are often already in your pantry.
  • Can be made ahead, giving you more time to enjoy your company.

Ingredients

1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, and toss until the vegetables are well-coated.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, toss the coleslaw again to redistribute any dressing that has settled.

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