North Carolina Eastern-style Slaw

North Carolina Eastern-style Slaw Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12-15

Introduction

North Carolina Eastern-style slaw is a classic dish that is a staple in Southern cuisine. This creamy and tangy coleslaw is the perfect side dish for any barbecue or picnic.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in North Carolina, where it is a beloved dish at family gatherings and cookouts. The combination of cabbage, onions, and a creamy dressing has been a favorite in the region for years.

Ingredients

6 medium heads of cabbage (about 36 cups), finely shredded
1.5 cups of sliced green onions
1.5 qt (1.42 liters) of mayonnaise or salad dressing
0.75 cup of sugar
0.75 cup of vinegar
2 to 4 tbsp of celery seed
2 tbsp of salt (or to taste)

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine cabbage and onion.
In a small bowl, blend mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, celery seed, and salt.
Mix well.
Drizzle the mayonnaise mixture over the cabbage mixture in the bowl.
Toss lightly to mix well.
Refrigerate until serving.

Variations

Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use a different type of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, for a different taste.
Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely shred the cabbage to ensure that the slaw has a nice, uniform texture.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a more tangy slaw, increase the amount of vinegar.

- Allow the slaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve North Carolina Eastern-style slaw alongside grilled meats, fried chicken, or barbecue for a classic Southern meal.

Cooking Techniques

Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a food processor.

- Mix the dressing separately before adding it to the cabbage to ensure that it is evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the slaw.

- Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

North Carolina Eastern-style slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the slaw in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

North Carolina Eastern-style slaw pairs well with grilled meats, fried chicken, or pulled pork sandwiches.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of North Carolina Eastern-style slaw contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of North Carolina Eastern-style slaw contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of North Carolina Eastern-style slaw contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of North Carolina Eastern-style slaw contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This slaw is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K, thanks to the cabbage and onions.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

North Carolina Eastern-style slaw is a creamy and tangy side dish that is relatively low in calories and a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K.

Summary

North Carolina Eastern-style slaw is a classic Southern side dish that is creamy, tangy, and perfect for any barbecue or picnic. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, this slaw is sure to become a favorite at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for North Carolina Eastern-style Slaw. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a small town in the eastern part of North Carolina. I had always been a lover of coleslaw, but I had never tasted anything quite like the unique slaw they served at the local diner.

As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to find out the secret behind this delicious dish. I struck up a conversation with the friendly waitress, who was more than happy to share the recipe with me. She told me that the key to the slaw's flavor was in the vinegar-based dressing, which gave it a tangy kick that set it apart from other coleslaws.

I immediately set out to recreate the recipe at home, and after a few tries, I finally perfected it. The combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions, tossed in a tangy vinegar dressing, was a hit with my family and friends. From that day on, North Carolina Eastern-style Slaw became a staple at every gathering and potluck.

But my journey with this recipe didn't end there. Over the years, I continued to tweak and refine the recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different ingredients. I learned that a pinch of sugar balanced out the tanginess of the vinegar, while a dash of hot sauce added a spicy kick.

I also discovered that the key to a great slaw lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and pungent onions are essential for creating a flavorful and crunchy slaw. I made sure to source the best produce from local farmers' markets, ensuring that each batch of slaw was made with love and care.

As I shared my recipe with friends and family, I learned that everyone had their own unique twist on the classic dish. Some preferred to add a hint of mustard or celery seed, while others liked to mix in shredded apples or raisins for a sweet touch. It was fascinating to see how a simple recipe could be adapted and personalized to suit individual tastes.

One of my fondest memories with this recipe was when I taught my granddaughter how to make North Carolina Eastern-style Slaw. She had always been interested in cooking and had watched me prepare the dish countless times. I could see the excitement in her eyes as she measured out the ingredients and tossed them together in a bowl.

I guided her through each step, explaining the importance of balancing the flavors and textures. As she tasted the finished slaw, a smile spread across her face, and I knew that she had inherited my love for cooking. It was a special moment that I will always treasure, knowing that the tradition of making this delicious slaw would continue for generations to come.

In the end, this recipe for North Carolina Eastern-style Slaw has become more than just a dish to me. It is a symbol of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. I am grateful for the waitress who first shared the recipe with me, and for the countless memories and moments of connection that this simple dish has brought into my life. It is a reminder that the best recipes are not just about the ingredients, but about the stories and memories that they hold.