How to Make Homemade Coleslaw: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Who doesn’t love a bowl of creamy, crunchy coleslaw? Whether you’re having a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or simply looking for a side dish to pair with your favorite meal, coleslaw is always a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You don’t have to buy store-bought coleslaw that’s loaded with preservatives. Making homemade coleslaw is easy, quick, and way more delicious! In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to prepare this classic dish using simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
What is Coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a salad made primarily with shredded cabbage and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with burgers, fried chicken, sandwiches, or even tacos. The name “coleslaw” comes from the Dutch word koolsla, meaning “cabbage salad.”
The beauty of coleslaw is how customizable it is. Whether you prefer a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing or a lighter vinegar-based dressing, you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make delicious homemade coleslaw, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the salad:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage (or pre-shredded cabbage from the store)
- 1-2 carrots (optional, for extra color and crunch)
- Optional extras (e.g., red cabbage, green onions, or parsley for garnish)
For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey for a healthier alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little zing)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
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Shred the cabbage: Start by removing any damaged outer leaves from your cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and slice each quarter thinly with a sharp knife. You can also use a food processor or box grater if you prefer finer shreds.
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Shred the carrots: Peel your carrots and use a box grater to create thin shreds. This will add a pop of color to your coleslaw and enhance the crunch.
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Combine the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, toss the shredded cabbage and carrots together. If you’re adding red cabbage or green onions, mix them in now.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
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Mix the ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or fork to mix everything until smooth and creamy.
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Taste and adjust: Give your dressing a taste and adjust the seasoning. If you want it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. For more tang, add an extra splash of vinegar.
Step 3: Combine the Salad and Dressing
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Pour the dressing: Gradually pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Start with half the dressing and then toss everything together. If the coleslaw seems too dry, add more dressing until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Mix well: Use tongs or a large spoon to mix the coleslaw thoroughly. Ensure all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Chill (optional): Coleslaw tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a while. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If you’re short on time, you can serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Coleslaw
- Make ahead: Preparing coleslaw in advance gives the ingredients time to absorb the flavors of the dressing. It’s perfect for meal planning or parties!
- Keep it crunchy: Don’t let the coleslaw sit too long before serving, as it can become soggy. To keep it fresh, toss the dressing with the vegetables right before serving.
- Customize your dressing: If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise. You can also experiment with spices like paprika or celery seed for added flavor.
- Up your veggie game: You can make coleslaw more vibrant by adding other shredded vegetables like bell peppers or radishes.
Serving Suggestions
Coleslaw is incredibly versatile, so you can pair it with a variety of dishes, including:
– Grilled meats like chicken, pork ribs, or steak
– Pulled pork sandwiches or burgers
– Fried fish or shrimp
– Tacos or burritos (especially fish tacos!)
It can also be served on its own as a refreshing, healthy snack.
Why Make Homemade Coleslaw?
Homemade coleslaw is fresher, healthier, and tastier than store-bought versions. You control the ingredients, so you can make it exactly the way you like. Plus, it’s more affordable and doesn’t come with preservatives or artificial flavors.
Conclusion
Making homemade coleslaw is simple, quick, and incredibly rewarding. With fresh shredded cabbage, crunchy carrots, and a creamy, tangy dressing, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a party, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it at home, coleslaw is always a winner.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some cabbage, whip up the dressing, and create your very own homemade coleslaw. Once you try it, you may never go back to store-bought again!
