Craving a refreshing and crunchy side dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this classic American coleslaw recipe! This homemade version is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy goodness. Forget those bland store-bought coleslaws; this recipe uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a truly unforgettable coleslaw experience. Get ready to elevate your next barbecue, picnic, or family dinner with this simple yet impressive side dish. Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade American coleslaw!
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 5 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per serving (approximate): Calories: 200, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 10mg, Sodium: 300mg, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 10g, Protein: 2g. *Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients used.*
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded Cabbage | 8 cups |
| Shredded Carrots | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Optional: Onion (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
Cooking Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. This is the base of our delicious coleslaw.
- In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is what gives our coleslaw its signature tangy flavor.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Make sure all the vegetables are nicely coated for consistent flavor. This Homemade American Coleslaw is all about that perfect balance!
- If using, add the finely chopped onion and mix again. A little onion can add a nice little bite to your coleslaw.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the better the flavors combine! Our homemade American coleslaw tastes best when the flavors have a chance to come together.
- Before serving, give the coleslaw another gentle toss. This ensures that the dressing is evenly distributed and that the coleslaw is perfectly crisp and ready for you to enjoy. Serve your amazing Homemade American Coleslaw immediately!
Serving Suggestions: This incredibly versatile Homemade American Coleslaw is perfect as a side dish with barbecued ribs, pulled pork, grilled chicken, or any other summertime favorites. It’s also a great addition to burgers, hot dogs, or even as a topping for tacos. The creamy, tangy dressing complements many savory dishes and adds a lovely textural contrast.
Notes and Tips for Perfect Homemade American Coleslaw:
- For the crispiest coleslaw, use ice-cold cabbage and carrots. Cold vegetables will help maintain their crisp texture even after the coleslaw has been dressed and chilled. You can even chill the vegetables before preparing the recipe.
- Don’t overmix the coleslaw, as this can cause the cabbage to become soggy. Gentle mixing is key to keeping the coleslaw nice and crisp. Too much mixing can bruise the cabbage.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. You could add a pinch of celery seed, mustard powder, or even a little paprika for a unique twist on your Homemade American Coleslaw.
- If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add more sugar. Conversely, for a more tangy coleslaw, add more apple cider vinegar.
- For a lighter coleslaw, use a reduced-fat mayonnaise. You can even try making your own mayonnaise. However, this Homemade American Coleslaw recipe is all about the classic taste.
- Make ahead tip: This coleslaw can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors only get better with time. Your Homemade American Coleslaw can become even better after a few days!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Homemade American Coleslaw! This recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Remember, the key to a fantastic coleslaw is fresh, high-quality ingredients and a gentle hand. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly flavorful and refreshing side dish. This Homemade American Coleslaw is a true testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of classic American cuisine.
