Classic Creamy Coleslaw
A quintessential American BBQ side dish, this creamy coleslaw features crisp shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet mayonnaise-based dressing. It's best served chilled to allow the flavors to meld.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 medium head (about 2 lbs) Green cabbage
- 2 medium Carrots
- 1 cup Mayonnaise(Full-fat mayonnaise will yield the creamiest result.)
- 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar(Adds a bright tanginess.)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar(Balances the acidity of the vinegar.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the vegetables: Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage, cut it into quarters, remove the core, and thinly slice or shred the cabbage. Peel the carrots and grate them using a box grater or julienne them finely. Aim for pieces that are similar in size for even distribution.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – you might want a little more sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Combine and toss: Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly with tongs or large spoons until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure no dry spots remain.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Chill before serving: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly, resulting in a much better texture and taste.
⏱️ 1 hour
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For best flavor and texture, allow the coleslaw to chill for at least 1 hour before serving. The flavors will meld and the cabbage will soften slightly.
- ✓Adjust the sugar and vinegar to achieve your preferred balance of sweet and tangy.
- ✓This coleslaw is a classic and versatile side dish for barbecues, picnics, and fried chicken.
- ✓For a finer shred, you can use a food processor with a shredding disc, but be careful not to over-process.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a vinegar-based coleslaw, reduce or omit the mayonnaise and increase the vinegar and oil.
- Add finely chopped celery, red onion, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Incorporate shredded pineapple (drained well) or raisins for a touch of sweetness and tropical flair.
- Add a pinch of celery seed for an authentic deli-style flavor.