Spicy Sweet and Sour Cole Slaw Delight
Elevate your barbecue experience with this Spicy Sweet and Sour Cole Slaw Delight! This vibrant slaw combines the crunchy texture of fresh shredded cabbage, zesty bell peppers, and aromatic onions with a tangy, sweet, and spicy dressing. It's a refreshing and bold twist on the classic cole slaw, perfect for cutting through the richness of grilled meats. The addition of cayenne pepper delivers a delightful kick, making this dish a standout side at any picnic, barbecue, or family gathering.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cabbage
1 head (shredded)
Onion
3/4 cup (chopped)
Green Pepper
3/4 cup (chopped (optional))
Sugar
1 cup (none)
White Vinegar
1 cup (none)
Salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Celery Seed
1 teaspoon (none)
Paprika
1 teaspoon (none)
Black Pepper
3/4 teaspoon (none)
Cayenne Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, chopped onion, and optional green pepper. Toss gently to mix.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, white vinegar, salt, celery seed, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well-combined.
3
Pour the sweet and sour dressing over the cabbage and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5
Once chilled, drain any excess liquid from the slaw. Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy this zesty side dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Sweet and Sour Cole Slaw Delight?
It is a vibrant and crunchy salad featuring shredded cabbage, onions, and peppers tossed in a tangy dressing with a spicy cayenne kick.
How do I make the dressing for this cole slaw?
Whisk together sugar, white vinegar, salt, celery seed, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until the sugar is fully dissolved.
How long should the slaw refrigerate before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, though leaving it overnight provides the best flavor development.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for making ahead of time as the flavors meld together beautifully while chilling overnight.
Is this cole slaw recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe consists entirely of vegetables, spices, sugar, and vinegar, making it suitable for vegetarians.
How spicy is this cole slaw?
It has a noticeable kick thanks to the half-teaspoon of cayenne pepper, balanced by the sweetness of the sugar.
What type of cabbage should I use?
A fresh head of green cabbage is standard, but you can also use a mix of green and red cabbage for more color.
Can I substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used for a slightly fruitier flavor profile instead of the sharp tang of white vinegar.
Are green peppers required for this recipe?
No, the green peppers are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a simpler flavor.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the sugar to your preference, though it will make the slaw more sour and less sweet.
What is the best way to serve this cole slaw?
Serve it chilled in a bowl after draining any excess liquid to ensure the best texture and presentation.
What dishes pair well with this slaw?
It is a perfect side dish for grilled meats, barbecued ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, or as a topping for fish tacos.
Can I use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Yes, using a store-bought bag of shredded cabbage and carrots is a great way to save time.
How long does this cole slaw last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh and crunchy for 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze this cole slaw?
Freezing is not recommended because the cabbage will lose its crunchy texture and become soggy upon thawing.
How can I make the slaw less spicy?
To reduce the heat, simply decrease the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
What creates the 'sweet and sour' flavor?
The balance of one cup of sugar with one cup of white vinegar creates the classic sweet and sour base.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Why do I need to drain the liquid before serving?
Draining excess liquid prevents the slaw from becoming too watery on the plate and keeps the flavors concentrated.
Can I add other vegetables to this slaw?
Absolutely! Shredded carrots, radishes, or sliced jalapeños would make excellent additions.
What is the purpose of celery seed in this dish?
Celery seed adds a subtle earthy and savory depth that is characteristic of traditional cole slaw recipes.
Can I use red onion instead of yellow or white onion?
Yes, red onion provides a beautiful pop of color and a slightly sharper flavor that works well with the dressing.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, as it contains no animal products, it is suitable for a vegan diet.
How many people does one head of cabbage serve?
Depending on the size of the head of cabbage, this recipe typically serves 8 to 10 people as a side dish.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can use a granulated sugar substitute, though you may need to adjust the ratio based on the brand's sweetness level.
What can I use if I don't have paprika?
If you lack paprika, you can use a tiny pinch of chili powder or simply omit it, as it is mainly for color and mild flavor.
Is this a good recipe for outdoor picnics?
Yes, because it is vinegar-based rather than mayonnaise-based, it holds up much better in warm weather.
Should I add mayonnaise to this recipe?
This specific recipe is designed to be a vinegar-based slaw, but you could add a bit of mayo if you prefer a creamy texture.
Can I add fruit like apples to this slaw?
Shredded tart apples like Granny Smith would complement the sweet and sour dressing very well.
How do I ensure the cabbage stays crunchy?
Use very fresh cabbage and keep the mixture thoroughly chilled until the moment you are ready to serve.