Coleslaw is a classic side dish that never goes out of style. With its crisp texture, creamy dressing, and refreshing tang, it’s a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals. The old-fashioned version of coleslaw focuses on simplicity and classic flavors, using fresh ingredients and a homemade dressing for a dish that’s both nostalgic and delicious. Here’s a detailed recipe to make this timeless favorite.

1. Old Fashioned Coleslaw Recipe

Ingredients

For the Coleslaw

  • 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, grated or julienned
  • 1/2 cup red cabbage, finely shredded

For the Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Shred the Cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and cut it in half. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, finely shred the cabbage. Aim for uniform pieces for even texture.

Grate the Carrots: Peel the carrots and use a grater or food processor to grate them. If you prefer, you can julienne the carrots instead for a different texture.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or acidity according to your preference. The dressing should be creamy with a hint of tanginess.

Step 3: Mix the Coleslaw

Combine Vegetables and Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, and grated carrots. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.

Toss Well: Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the vegetables and dressing together until everything is evenly coated. Be gentle to avoid bruising the cabbage.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate: Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.

Serve: Give the coleslaw a final toss before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite meals, or use it as a topping for sandwiches and burgers.

Old Fashioned Coleslaw Recipe

2. Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Coleslaw

Shred Evenly: Aim for uniformly shredded cabbage and carrots to ensure every bite has the perfect texture.

Chill Time is Key: Allow the coleslaw to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting period enhances the flavor and improves the overall texture.

Don’t Overdress: Start with just enough dressing to coat the vegetables lightly. You can always add more later if needed.

Taste and Adjust: After mixing, taste the coleslaw and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt, sugar, or vinegar can make a big difference.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Crisp, fresh cabbage and carrots are essential for the best texture and flavor.

3. Recipe Variations

Coleslaw is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to try:

Creamy Buttermilk Coleslaw: Replace half of the mayonnaise with buttermilk for a tangier and lighter dressing.

Sweet Coleslaw: Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the mix for a touch of sweetness.

Spicy Coleslaw: Stir in a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Vinegar-Based Coleslaw: Skip the mayonnaise and make a vinegar-based dressing using olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.

Herbed Coleslaw: Add fresh chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Serving Ideas for Coleslaw

Old-fashioned coleslaw pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, making it a versatile side dish for any meal. Here are some ideas:

With Fried Chicken: Serve it alongside crispy fried chicken or chicken tenders for a classic combo.

BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: The tangy and creamy coleslaw balances the richness of BBQ meats like ribs, pulled pork, or brisket.

Burgers and Sandwiches: Use the coleslaw as a topping for burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or fried chicken sandwiches.

Baked Meats: Serve it with baked chicken, steak, or sausages for a fresh and crunchy side dish.

Old fashioned coleslaw is a recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a side dish that’s creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, coleslaw is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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