Savory Coleslaw

Savory Coleslaw Recipe from Panama | Red & White Cabbage, Carrots, Mustard, & More

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Savory coleslaw is a classic side dish that is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or any meal that needs a refreshing and crunchy addition. This recipe combines the flavors of red and white cabbage with carrots and a tangy dressing for a delicious and colorful dish.

History

Coleslaw has been a popular dish in the United States since the 18th century, with variations of the recipe being passed down through generations. Originally, coleslaw was made with just cabbage and a simple vinegar dressing, but over time, different ingredients such as carrots, mayonnaise, and mustard have been added to create different flavor profiles.

Ingredients

0.5 large head of red cabbage, finely shredded
0.5 large head of white cabbage, finely shredded
2 carrots, shredded
0.5 cup of white wine vinegar
0.25 cup of sugar
1 tbsp of dijon mustard
2 tsp of celery seeds
1 tsp of salt
0.25 cup of light vegetable oil

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine the cabbages and carrots. Toss to mix the colors.
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard, celery seeds, and salt. Cover and shake to dissolve the sugar.
Add the oil and cover again.
Shake well. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots and toss. Set aside to let it wilt a bit before serving or refrigerate. Serves 8

Variations

Add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor.
Use Greek yogurt or mayonnaise in the dressing for a creamier texture.
Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely shred the cabbage and carrots for a more uniform texture in the coleslaw.

- Let the coleslaw sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Savory coleslaw is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos or burgers.

Cooking Techniques

Shredding the cabbage and carrots finely ensures a more uniform texture in the coleslaw. Mixing the dressing in a jar with a tight-fitting lid allows for easy shaking and emulsification.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use green cabbage instead of red cabbage, or omit the carrots if desired. You can also use apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Savory coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just toss before serving to refresh the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Savory coleslaw pairs well with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or fish tacos. It also complements dishes with bold flavors such as barbecue or spicy foods.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss before serving to refresh the flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of savory coleslaw contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of savory coleslaw contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of savory coleslaw contains approximately 7 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of savory coleslaw contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Savory coleslaw is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber from the cabbage and carrots.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as mustard and celery seeds. Please check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Savory coleslaw is a low-calorie side dish that is rich in Vitamin C and fiber. It is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

Summary

Savory coleslaw is a classic side dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables, it is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Enjoy this refreshing dish at your next gathering or barbecue!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I sifted through the yellowed and tattered pieces of paper, a faded index card caught my eye. It simply read "Savory Coleslaw" in neat, cursive handwriting.

I had never made coleslaw before, but something about the simplicity of the recipe intrigued me. I decided to give it a try, and I am so glad I did. It has become a staple at family gatherings and potlucks ever since.

The recipe called for shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions, mixed with a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and mustard. It was the perfect combination of crunchy and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness and bite.

I remember the first time I made it for my family. They were skeptical at first, as they were used to the traditional, mayonnaise-heavy coleslaw that was served at most gatherings. But one bite of my savory coleslaw and they were hooked. They couldn't get enough of it, and I knew I had stumbled upon a winning recipe.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a bit more vinegar for extra tang or a sprinkle of celery seed for added flavor. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness.

But the true secret to the success of my savory coleslaw lies not in the ingredients, but in the memories that it brings back. Every time I make it, I am transported back to that hot summer day when I first discovered the recipe. I can almost hear my mother's voice guiding me through the steps, her gentle hands showing me how to shred the cabbage just right.

I have come to realize that cooking is so much more than just following a recipe. It is about the love and care that you put into each dish, the memories that you create with every bite. And my savory coleslaw is a testament to that.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for the perfect dish to bring to a gathering, I urge you to give my savory coleslaw a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass the recipe down to your own children and grandchildren, creating new memories and traditions along the way.