The Secret on How to Make Coleslaw That Will Be A Standout Every Time!

Coleslaw, the crispy and vibrant side dish that has graced picnic tables, family gatherings, and backyard barbecues for generations. Today, I’m here to share with you my secret on how to make a creamy coleslaw that will be the star side dish of your backyard barbeques! 

How is Coleslaw Served?

One of the beauties of Coleslaw is its versatility. Whether you serve it chilled on a hot summer day at a backyard barbecue or as a zesty side to complement a hearty meal, it never fails to enhance the taste of your dishes. It’s a classic partner to dishes like fried chicken, pulled pork, barbeque ribs, alongside seafood, and even as a crunchy addition to sandwiches including hamburgers and hot dogs.

A salad, a side dish, a burger topping, Coleslaw is many things to many people. But at its heart, it’s a simple mixture of shredded raw cabbage dressed in a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a dash of spices.

It’s the culinary companion you didn’t know you needed, enhancing the flavors of your main dishes while adding a delightful crunch to your palate.

Crunch, Tang, and Creaminess: The Trifecta of Coleslaw

Traditionally, the dressing consists of mayonnaise, vinegar, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of spice. It’s this combination of contrasting elements that gives coleslaw its distinctive character. The creamy dressing coats the cabbage and vegetables, infusing them with a rich, tangy flavor while providing a luscious mouthfeel. The slight crunch of the cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing bite, creating a symphony of textures that dance on your taste buds.

In the recipe below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the ingredients and measurements, along with a video where I walk you through step-by-step on how to make coleslaw that is nothing short of extraordinary.

So let’s get cooking! Or should I say slaw-making?!

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Make Coleslaw:

1. Can coleslaw be prepared in advance?

Yes, coleslaw can be prepared in advance. In fact, it often tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Prepare the coleslaw as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

2. Can you freeze coleslaw?

Freezing coleslaw isn’t recommended, especially if it’s made with a mayonnaise-based dressing, as it can separate and become watery and limp when defrosted. It’s best to enjoy coleslaw fresh or refrigerate any leftovers for a few days. If you must freeze it, a vinegar-based coleslaw would fare better, but the texture of the cabbage will still change upon defrosting.

3. How should I store leftover coleslaw?

To store leftover coleslaw, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure, which can cause the coleslaw to wilt or become watery. If stored properly, it can last for 3 to 5 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s best to consume it within 2 days.

4. What is the best way to serve coleslaw?

Coleslaw is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It is commonly enjoyed as a side dish with barbecue, grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for hot dogs and burgers. It can also be used as a filling for tacos, wraps, or served alongside fried chicken or fish.

5. Can I customize the coleslaw recipe?

Absolutely! Coleslaw recipes can be customized to suit your preferences. You can experiment with different types of cabbage, add other vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or red onions, and even incorporate additional ingredients like apples, raisins, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

6. Is coleslaw suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Coleslaw can be made suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Traditional coleslaw recipes often contain mayonnaise, which is not vegan-friendly, but you can use vegan mayonnaise or substitute it with other vegan-friendly dressings like vinaigrettes or dairy-free yogurt-based dressings.

7. Can I make coleslaw without cabbage?

While cabbage is the traditional main ingredient in coleslaw, you can make variations of coleslaw using other vegetables as well. So here are some alternatives on how to make coleslaw without cabbage: Alternatives to cabbage include shredded Brussels sprouts, broccoli slaw, or a combination of different leafy greens like kale or spinach.

8. What main dishes and beverages pair well with coleslaw?

Coleslaw pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It complements barbecue ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, chicken wings, fried fish, or even a classic Reuben sandwich. As for beverages, coleslaw goes well with lemonade, iced tea, beer, or even a refreshing glass of sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

9. Can I use purple cabbage in my Coleslaw?

Yes, you can use purple cabbage in your coleslaw. It will add a vibrant color to your coleslaw and has a slightly different flavor compared to green cabbage. You can use all purple cabbage or mix it with green cabbage.

10. Can I make Coleslaw without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can definitely make coleslaw without mayonnaise. ( You should try my Vinaigrette  Style Coleslaw Dressing Recipe. It is amazing! ) – One common alternative on how to make coleslaw without mayonnaise includes using a vinegar-based dressing, which includes vinegar, a little bit of sugar, and oil. Another option is a creamy but lighter dressing made with yogurt. Both alternatives offer a different but delightful flavor profile for your coleslaw.