How to Make Coleslaw from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Coleslaw, a refreshing and crunchy side dish, is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a curious cook, making coleslaw from scratch is easier than you think. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of creating a delicious and healthy coleslaw recipe from scratch.
What is Coleslaw?
Coleslaw is a salad made from shredded or grated vegetables, typically cabbage, carrots, and onions. The ingredients are mixed with a dressing, which can vary in taste, texture, and ingredients. Coleslaw can be a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, BBQ, and as a standalone snack.
Basic Ingredients for Coleslaw
Before we dive into the recipe, here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make coleslaw:
- Main ingredients:
- 2 cups of cabbage, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1 cup of carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Coleslaw from Scratch
Preparation
- Shred the cabbage: Use a food processor or a mandoline to shred the cabbage into thin strips. You can also use a sharp knife to chop the cabbage into small pieces.
- Grate the carrots: Use a box grater or a food processor to grate the carrots. You can also use a vegetable peeler to peel the carrots and then chop them into small pieces.
- Thinly slice the red onion: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to thinly slice the red onion.
Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Mix well: Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until they’re well combined and evenly distributed.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Adjust the dressing: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more vinegar, sugar, salt, or pepper as needed.
Assemble the Coleslaw
- Combine the dressing and coleslaw ingredients: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and mix until everything is well coated.
- Add optional ingredients: If using, add the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, Dijon mustard, or grated ginger to the coleslaw and mix well.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the coleslaw and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Tips and Variations
- Use a variety of cabbage: Experiment with different types of cabbage, such as green, red, or Savoy, to change the flavor and texture of your coleslaw.
- Add some crunch: Introduce some crunch to your coleslaw by adding chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
- Make it spicy: Add some heat to your coleslaw by incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Keep it fresh: Store your coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Making coleslaw from scratch is a simple and rewarding process that requires minimal ingredients and effort. By following these steps, you can create a delicious and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to make your coleslaw recipe your own. Happy cooking!