Traditional Vinegar Coleslaw

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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If you’re looking for a coleslaw that’s crisp, tangy, and refreshingly different from the usual mayo-laden varieties, this Traditional Vinegar Coleslaw is your new go-to. It’s a flavorful side dish that shines particularly bright at barbecues and picnics.

Ingredients for Traditional Vinegar Coleslaw

Green cabbage forms the crunchy, fresh base of the slaw, providing texture and a mild sweetness. Carrot adds a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness that complements the tangy dressing. The combination of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar gives a sharp, tangy flavor while maintaining a subtle fruitiness from the cider. Olive oil adds a smooth richness that balances the acidity. A touch of sugar helps round out the tang, while salt enhances the overall flavor. Black pepper adds a gentle kick, and celery seed brings a hint of earthy aroma and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • For maximum flavor, make the coleslaw a day in advance. The extra time in the fridge enhances the taste.
  • If you prefer a sweeter slaw, you can increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
  • For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This vinegar coleslaw is a perfect accompaniment to smoked meats like pulled pork or barbecued chicken. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, adding a refreshing crunch. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or as a topping for veggie burgers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage can be used for a more colorful presentation, though it might slightly alter the flavor.
How long will this coleslaw keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it should keep for about 3 to 5 days.
Is there a substitute for celery seed?
If you don't have celery seed, you can omit it or add a bit of celery salt, reducing the regular salt accordingly.

Traditional Vinegar Coleslaw Recipe Walkthrough

Start by prepping your veggies. Shred a medium head of green cabbage. You can use a mandoline for thin, even slices, or a sharp knife if you prefer a chunkier texture. Next, grate one large carrot using the large holes of a box grater. Combine the cabbage and carrot in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, it's time to make the dressing. Whisk together 1/2 cup of white vinegar, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of celery seed until the sugar is fully dissolved. This ensures the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the slaw.

Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot. Toss everything together well, ensuring every bit of cabbage and carrot is coated in the zesty dressing. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This resting time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

When you’re ready to serve, give the coleslaw another good toss to make sure everything is well combined. Now it's ready to delight your taste buds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
  • No mayonnaise, making it lighter and perfect for outdoor events.
  • Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Great make-ahead dish that gets better with time.

Ingredients

1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon celery seed

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seed until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the cabbage and carrot, and toss well to coat evenly.
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 ensure it is well mixed.

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