Description
This Southern-Style Slaw is a classic tangy and creamy coleslaw featuring freshly grated green cabbage, a touch of sweetness from sugar, sharpness from apple cider vinegar, and a smooth finish with mayonnaise. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or topping for barbecue plates, sandwiches, and more, this recipe offers a balanced blend of flavors and textures with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Slaw Base
- 2½ cups green cabbage, grated
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons salt
Flavorings
- ¼ cup onion, finely grated
- 2½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Dressing
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise (or up to ½ cup as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare Cabbage: Place the grated cabbage, granulated sugar, and salt in a colander. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Drain Liquid: Set the colander over a bowl to catch any liquid that drains out. Place in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow the cabbage to release moisture.
- Press Cabbage: After refrigeration, firmly press the cabbage against the colander to remove as much remaining liquid as possible to avoid sogginess.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the drained cabbage into a medium bowl for mixing with other ingredients.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the finely grated onion, apple cider vinegar, and ground black pepper to infuse the slaw with tang and a slight bite.
- Mix Dressing: Add the mayonnaise and stir gently until the cabbage is evenly coated. Adjust by adding more mayonnaise if a creamier consistency is preferred.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Final Stir: Stir well once more before serving to ensure the slaw is well combined and creamy.
Notes
- For a crisper slaw, ensure you press out as much liquid as possible before adding the dressing.
- You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar for a slightly different tang.
- Adjust sugar and mayonnaise amounts to your taste preference for sweetness and creaminess.
- This slaw keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days, but best enjoyed fresh.
- Adding a pinch of celery seeds or mustard powder can enhance the traditional Southern flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southern American
