Coleslaw is a classic side dish that can be enjoyed year-round, especially at barbecues, picnics, or with a comforting meal. This vinegar-based coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the traditional creamy version. The bright, tangy flavors will liven up any meal, making it the perfect complement to meats and sandwiches alike. It’s light yet full of flavor, offering a crisp and satisfying crunch with every bite.
Unlike its mayo-based counterpart, this vinegar slaw brings a unique zest and freshness, and it’s ideal for anyone avoiding mayonnaise. Its simplicity and versatility mean it pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled chicken to pulled pork. You’ll love how quickly this slaw comes together, making it an easy addition to your next family meal or get-together.
If you’re looking for a coleslaw recipe that’s both delicious and easy to make, this vinegar-based version is the one for you. With just a few ingredients and a simple process, you’ll have a dish that’s full of tangy goodness, ready in no time. Let’s dive into the details and get this slaw on your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vinegar coleslaw is a perfect balance of tanginess and crunch. It’s light yet flavorful, and it doesn’t need mayonnaise to achieve that rich, satisfying taste. The sweet and sour dressing complements the crisp cabbage, while the onions add a slight sharpness that ties it all together. It’s quick to make, incredibly customizable, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you serve it at a casual family dinner or a festive barbecue, this slaw is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients Overview
The key ingredients in this recipe include fresh cabbage and onion, which form the base of the slaw. The vinegar, sugar, and mustard create a tangy dressing that coats the cabbage beautifully. Celery seeds and black pepper add depth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor. The combination of vegetable oil and vinegar gives the slaw a nice balance of texture and acidity, while the sugar sweetens the dressing to perfection. This recipe is simple but delivers big on taste.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Core and finely shred the cabbage, then slice the onion thinly. Toss the cabbage and onion together in a large mixing bowl. Set it aside while you prepare the dressing.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, vinegar, vegetable oil, celery seed, salt, mustard, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together to mix well.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dressing cool for about 5 minutes. Pour the cooled dressing over the cabbage and onion mixture.
Step 5: Toss everything together until the cabbage is fully coated in the dressing. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Use fresh cabbage for the best crunch. Avoid over-shredding it so you get those nice, hearty pieces of cabbage.
- Let the slaw sit for a bit after mixing in the dressing for the flavors to meld together.
- You can adjust the sweetness and tanginess by tweaking the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.
- If you prefer a stronger mustard flavor, add a little extra mustard to the dressing.
- For a more savory kick, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dressing.
Variations to Try
- Add Carrots: Shredded carrots will add a burst of color and a slight sweetness to the slaw.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the slaw a spicy kick.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, can give the slaw a fresh, herbal twist.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Swap out the white vinegar for apple cider vinegar to give the slaw a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add Raisins or Cranberries: For a sweet-and-savory version, toss in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors improve after the slaw sits for a few hours or overnight. Just be sure to cover it and store it in the fridge. - Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this vinegar-based coleslaw is completely vegan since it doesn’t contain any mayonnaise or dairy. - Can I use a different kind of cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the most common choice, you can also use red cabbage for a slightly different flavor and a pop of color. - How do I make this slaw spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate a small amount of finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dressing. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop the longer it sits.
How to Store and Reheat
Store this vinegar coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. For best results, allow the slaw to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. There’s no need to reheat it, as it’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
Conclusion
This vinegar coleslaw is a simple yet flavorful dish that can complement any meal. Its tangy dressing and crunchy cabbage make for a refreshing and delicious side that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or looking for an easy weeknight side dish, this slaw is a perfect choice.
If you love this recipe, be sure to follow Wendy Recipes on Pinterest for more tasty ideas and fresh takes on classic dishes. Enjoy!
