Deliciously Creamy Southern-Style Coleslaw
This expertly crafted coleslaw recipe elevates the classic Southern dish to new heights. Inspired by a well-loved secret recipe, this version incorporates finely chopped cabbage, crunchy carrots, and subtle notes of onion, all coated in a luxuriously creamy dressing that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. Ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or as a tasty side to your favorite fried dishes, this homemade coleslaw will become a cherished staple at your table. With a simple preparation and a few hours to chill in the fridge, you’ll be serving a dish that impresses without the fuss.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cabbage
8 cups (finely chopped (about 1 head, sized like rice))
Carrot
1/4 cup (shredded)
Onion
2 tablespoons (minced)
Granulated Sugar
1/3 cup (none)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Black Pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
Milk
1/4 cup (none)
Buttermilk
1/4 cup (none)
Tarragon Vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced onions. Toss gently to ensure an even distribution of the vegetables.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, and tarragon vinegar until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture, ensuring that all the vegetables are thoroughly coated. Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill.
5
Before serving, give the coleslaw a quick stir to redistribute the dressing, and enjoy this delightful side dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this coleslaw Southern-style?
This recipe is considered Southern-style because it features a very finely chopped cabbage texture combined with a creamy, sweet, and tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, buttermilk, and sugar.
How long should the coleslaw chill before serving?
For the best flavor and texture, you should refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 3 to 4 hours to allow the dressing to meld with the vegetables.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage from the store?
Yes, you can use store-bought shredded cabbage. You will need approximately 8 cups, which is usually about two standard bags of coleslaw mix.
What is the secret ingredient in the dressing?
The use of tarragon vinegar and buttermilk provides a unique, subtle depth of flavor that distinguishes this recipe from standard coleslaw.
What can I use if I don't have tarragon vinegar?
If you do not have tarragon vinegar, you can substitute it with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor profile will slightly change.
How finely should the cabbage be chopped?
The cabbage should be chopped very finely, aiming for a size similar to grains of rice, which is characteristic of classic Southern restaurant-style slaw.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this vegan by substituting the mayonnaise, milk, and buttermilk with your favorite plant-based alternatives.
How long does this coleslaw stay fresh?
When kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this coleslaw will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze homemade coleslaw?
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as the mayonnaise-based dressing will break and the cabbage will lose its crisp texture upon thawing.
Is this coleslaw recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free; however, always check the labels on your mayonnaise and vinegar to ensure they were processed in a gluten-free facility.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your preference if you prefer a less sweet side dish.
What dishes pair well with Southern-style coleslaw?
It is an ideal accompaniment for fried chicken, barbecued ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, or fried fish.
Why is buttermilk used in the dressing?
Buttermilk adds a creamy tang and a slight acidity that balances the sweetness of the granulated sugar.
Can I add extra vegetables to this slaw?
While this recipe focuses on cabbage and carrots, you can easily add bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and color.
Is it necessary to whisk the dressing in a separate bowl?
Yes, whisking separately ensures that the sugar and salt are fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth before it is added to the vegetables.
Can I use a food processor for the vegetables?
A food processor is actually recommended to achieve the fine, rice-like consistency for the cabbage and onions quickly.
What type of onion is best for this recipe?
A standard white or yellow onion works best as it provides a sharp contrast to the sweet dressing once minced.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
Based on 8 cups of cabbage, this recipe typically serves 8 to 10 people as a side dish.
Why does my coleslaw look watery after sitting?
Salt draws moisture out of cabbage over time. Simply stir the coleslaw before serving to redistribute the flavorful liquids.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute all or part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, higher-protein version of the dressing.
Does this recipe contain any common allergens?
This recipe contains eggs (in mayonnaise) and dairy (milk and buttermilk).
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, a granulated sugar substitute can be used; just ensure you follow the conversion ratio for the specific brand you choose.
Is this a spicy coleslaw?
No, this is a mild, sweet, and tangy coleslaw. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat.
Should I peel the carrots before shredding?
Yes, peeling the carrots ensures a clean flavor and a vibrant orange color in the final dish.
What if I don't have buttermilk on hand?
You can make a quick substitute by adding 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/4 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Can I add celery seed to this recipe?
While not in the original list, many people enjoy adding 1/2 teaspoon of celery seed for an extra layer of traditional flavor.
Is the onion flavor overpowering?
Because the onion is minced very finely and mixed with a sweet dressing, it provides a subtle aromatic background rather than a harsh bite.
How do I prevent the cabbage from turning brown?
The vinegar in the dressing acts as an antioxidant which helps keep the cabbage looking fresh and bright while it chills.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer BBQ?
Absolutely, it is a staple for outdoor gatherings, though it should be kept in a cooler or on ice since it contains mayonnaise and dairy.
Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, the ingredients scale up perfectly. Just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl to toss everything thoroughly.