The Ultimate Coleslaw Recipe: Creamy, Crunchy, and Perfectly Balanced
Looking for the perfect coleslaw recipe? Look no further! This recipe delivers a creamy, crunchy, and perfectly balanced coleslaw that's sure to be a hit at your next barbecue, picnic, or potluck. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings of delicious coleslaw. You can easily adjust the quantities to suit your needs.
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For the Cabbage Mix:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup red cabbage, finely shredded (optional, for extra color and flavor)
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For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand!)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar (granulated or powdered)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect coleslaw:
1. Prep the Cabbage:
- Shred the cabbage: Finely shred the green cabbage using a sharp knife or a food processor fitted with a shredding disc. Aim for consistent, thin shreds for optimal texture.
- Shred the carrot: Shred the carrot similarly. A box grater works well for this.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, shredded carrot, and red cabbage (if using).
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
- Whisk together: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine and Chill:
- Pour over cabbage: Gently pour the creamy dressing over the shredded cabbage mixture.
- Toss gently: Toss to coat the cabbage evenly with the dressing. Avoid over-mixing, as this can bruise the cabbage and make it soggy.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste and texture. The longer it chills, the better it tastes! (Up to 2 days)
Tips and Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped pecans add a delightful crunch.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a kick.
- Get creative with the veggies: Try adding shredded red bell pepper or finely chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.
- Make it lighter: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content.
Serving Suggestions:
This coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It's perfect as a side dish for:
- Grilled meats: Burgers, BBQ chicken, pork ribs.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Add it to your favorite fillings for a refreshing crunch.
- Tacos and burritos: A delicious and unexpected addition.
Enjoy your homemade coleslaw!
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