Colorful Coleslaw

Colorful Coleslaw Recipe with Red and White Cabbage, Carrots, Apple, and Raisins

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Colorful coleslaw is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish any time of year. This recipe combines the crunch of red and white cabbage with the sweetness of carrots, apples, and raisins, all tossed in a tangy dressing.

History

Coleslaw has been a popular dish in the United States since the 18th century, with variations of the recipe evolving over time. Originally, coleslaw was made with just cabbage and vinegar, but as the recipe spread across the country, different regions added their own twist by incorporating ingredients like carrots, apples, and raisins.

Ingredients

2 cups red cabbage, shredded
2 cups white cabbage, shredded
3 carrots, grated
1 apple, diced
0.25 cup raisins (optional)
0.5 onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp lime juice
3 tbsp olive oil (or Udo's oil)
0.5 tsp dill
1 tsp horseradish from the jar
0.25 tsp onion powder
0.25 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 tbsp fruit sugar
boiling water
Braggs All Purpose seasoning, or sea salt to taste

How to prepare

Place the shredded cabbage and raisins in a stainless steel or glass bowl. Pour enough boiling water over them to cover.
Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes.
Strain the water from the cabbage.
Add the remaining ingredients to the strained cabbage. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for two hours or more.

Variations

For a different flavor profile, try adding chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or shredded cheese to the coleslaw. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar or citrus juices in the dressing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To make your coleslaw extra crunchy, be sure to shred the cabbage and carrots finely. You can also add a sprinkle of sugar to the cabbage before adding the dressing to help soften it slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this colorful coleslaw alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or pulled pork for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a great coleslaw is to let the cabbage sit in boiling water for a few minutes before adding the dressing. This helps to soften the cabbage slightly and allows the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar instead. You can also substitute the dill with parsley or chives.

Make Ahead Tips

This coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your colorful coleslaw with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos or wraps.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 18g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This colorful coleslaw is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check the ingredients for any specific allergens that may affect you.

Summary

This colorful coleslaw is a nutritious and delicious side dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Colorful coleslaw is a versatile and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a sunny day in the early spring, and I was visiting my dear friend Emily in her cozy kitchen. As we chatted and sipped on some sweet tea, she began to prepare a dish that caught my eye. It was a colorful coleslaw unlike any I had seen before, with vibrant hues of purple, green, and red.

Curious, I asked Emily about the recipe, and she smiled warmly as she shared the story behind it. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The secret, she said, was in the combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing that brought out the flavors of the vegetables.

As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be inspired. I had always loved cooking, but this recipe felt special somehow. It was like a piece of culinary history, a taste of tradition that I wanted to make my own.

After sampling a bite of the finished coleslaw, I was hooked. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite a burst of freshness and crunch. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the following weeks, I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different combinations of vegetables and dressings. I chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced bell peppers, all the while trying to capture the essence of Emily's colorful coleslaw.

It wasn't easy at first. I struggled to find the right balance of flavors, the perfect blend of sweet and sour. But with each batch I made, I grew more confident in my abilities. I adjusted the seasoning, tweaked the dressing, and eventually, I found the perfect recipe.

As I plated the finished coleslaw and took a bite, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. This dish was more than just a recipe; it was a connection to my past, a link to the women who had come before me. It was a testament to the power of tradition and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

Since that day, colorful coleslaw has become a staple in my kitchen. I make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I want to add a bit of brightness to my table. And each time I do, I think of Emily and her grandmother, and I am grateful for the gift of this delicious dish.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a recipe that is both tasty and meaningful, look no further than colorful coleslaw. It's a dish that has stood the test of time, passed down from generation to generation, and now, it's yours to enjoy. Bon appétit!