Coleslaw is a salad made primarily of shredded raw cabbage and dressed with a vinaigrette dressing. It is a staple side dish in many cuisines and is enjoyed for its fresh, crunchy texture and tangy flavor. But what exactly is coleslaw used for? Here we will explore the many uses and benefits of this versatile salad.
What Exactly is Coleslaw?
Coleslaw traces its origins to the Dutch term “koolsla” meaning cabbage salad. The cabbage provides the base of coleslaw, often green cabbage, red cabbage or a mix. It is shredded finely to give coleslaw its signature light and fluffy texture.
In addition to cabbage, coleslaw often contains shredded carrots for additional crunch and sweetness. Other vegetables like onions, bell peppers or celery may be added as well. The vegetables are dressed in a vinaigrette consisting of an acidic ingredient like vinegar or lemon juice plus oil, commonly mayonnaise or sour cream. Seasonings like salt, pepper, sugar, mustard and celery seed tailor the flavor.
The ingredients combine to create a salad with a refreshing crunch and a tangy, creamy dressing. It can have sweet, sour and savory taste elements. There are many variations of coleslaw across cultures, but the basic formula is consistent.
Common Uses for Coleslaw
So why is this simple shredded cabbage salad such a popular side dish? Here are some of the top ways coleslaw is used:
As a BBQ Side Dish
Coleslaw is a fixture at summer barbecues and cookouts. Its crunchy texture and acidic dressing provide contrast to classic grilled meats like hamburgers, hot dogs and bbq chicken. The creaminess balances out the char from the grill. Cool coleslaw complements hot off the grill fare.
On Top of Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are taken to the next level when topped with a scoop of coleslaw. The sweet/tangy slaw cuts through the richness of the smoked pork shoulder. This flavor and texture contrast is welcome in a heavy sandwich. The crunch also helps balance the soft pulled pork and bun.
Served with Fried Chicken
Fried chicken and coleslaw is a standard combination across cuisines. The heavy batter and meatiness of fried chicken benefits from the acidic brightness and crunch of coleslaw. Additionally, having a side salad helps lighten the indulgence of fried chicken for a more balanced meal.
On Top of Hot Dogs
Adding coleslaw on top of hot dogs adds flavor contrast and texture just like on a pulled pork sandwich. The creaminess balances the salty meatiness of the hot dog. Crunchy shredded veggies lighten up the hot dog for a healthier meal.
On Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are another natural match for zesty coleslaw. Fried or grilled fish nested in a warm tortilla gets topped with shredded cabbage mix for a burst of freshness and acidity. This helps cut through the richness of the fish and balance the flavors.
As a Replacement for Lettuce
Rather than top burgers, sandwiches, wraps and tacos with lettuce, using tangy slaw instead brings a flavor and texture boost. Shredded veggies provide more bite than limp lettuce. The dressing adds lots of taste to balance heavy meats and cheeses.
On Summer Rolls
In summer rolls, or fresh Vietnamese spring rolls, coleslaw mix is often used in place of lettuce or cabbage leaves. Filling the rice paper wraps with coleslaw gives a fabulous crunch to contrast soft noodles and proteins. The pickled element of the dressing pairs nicely with traditional Vietnamese flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to its delicious flavor and texture, coleslaw provides the following nutritional benefits:
Good Source of Vitamin C
The cabbage in coleslaw is an excellent source of immune-boosting vitamin C. One cup of shredded green cabbage contains about 54mg vitamin C. That’s over half your daily recommended intake.
Vitamin K for Healthy Bones
Coleslaw is high in vitamin K which plays an important role in bone health. Shredded green cabbage has over 85 micrograms vitamin K per cup, keeping your bones strong.
Antioxidants to Fight Cancer
Cabbage contains certain antioxidant compounds shown to help lower inflammation and prevent certain cancers like breast and prostate cancer.
High in Fiber for Digestion
With over 2 grams of dietary fiber per cup, coleslaw helps promote good digestion and heart health. The cabbage adds insoluble fiber that reduces constipation.
Probiotics for Gut Health
Raw sauerkraut is sometimes used in coleslaw, providing probiotic benefits for your gut. The good bacteria support immunity and digestion. Other raw veggies also contribute prebiotics to feed probiotics.
| Vitamin | Per 1 Cup Raw Green Cabbage |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 54 mg |
| Vitamin K | 85 mcg |
Variations Across Cultures
While the basic coleslaw recipe is similar globally, there are some cultural variations:
Asian Coleslaw
In Asia, coleslaw often includes rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, chili pepper or peanuts. Shredded cabbage and carrots are commonly used. In China, coleslaw may contain shredded snow pea pods.
German Coleslaw
Germans make their coleslaw tangy and sweet, including ingredients like vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, carrots, onions and parsley.
Russian Coleslaw
Russian coleslaw has a mayonnaise dressing flavored with carrots, green onions, pickles, parsley, mustard and garlic. Cabbage provides the base.
Latin Coleslaw
In Latin coleslaw, lime juice and cilantro are commonly used to give it a zesty kick. Onion, peppers, corn and tomatillo may be included.
Tips for Making Great Coleslaw
Here are some tips for making the best tasting coleslaw at home:
– Shred cabbage thinly and uniformly for the right texture
– Don’t dress the coleslaw too far in advance or it will get soggy
– Add shredded vegetables like carrots, onions and bell pepper for crunch and flavor
– Use an acidic ingredient like vinegar or lemon juice to balance the creaminess
– Season with salt, pepper, sugar, mustard and celery seed to taste
– Chill coleslaw before serving to allow flavors to blend
Classic Coleslaw Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded green cabbage | 5 cups |
| Shredded carrots | 1 cup |
| White vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | 1 tsp each |
Conclusion
Coleslaw is clearly much more than just shredded cabbage. It can provide a crunchy, flavorful counterpart to everything from fried chicken to tacos. It also packs a nutritious punch thanks to vitamins, antioxidants, fiber and probiotics. This versatile salad continues to be a staple side dish for good reason. So next time you spoon some coleslaw onto your sandwich or bbq plate, appreciate just how multi-talented this crunchy slaw really is.