Thanksgiving Coleslaw: A Tangy Twist to Your Traditional Spread

Oleh Marcia Reilly June 11, 2023 Post a Comment

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends and of course, delicious food. While turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy are the staples of every Thanksgiving spread, why not add some crunch and tang to your meal with Thanksgiving coleslaw? This classic dish can be adapted in so many ways to complement your holiday feast. In this blog post, we'll explore the history of coleslaw, different types of coleslaw, and how you can incorporate this tasty side dish into your Thanksgiving meal.

The History of Coleslaw

Coleslaw has been a popular dish for centuries. It was first mentioned in ancient Roman texts and was made by simply mixing cabbage with vinegar. Coleslaw as we know it today originated in the Netherlands, where it was made with shredded cabbage, carrots, onions, and a vinaigrette dressing. The Dutch brought coleslaw to America in the 1700s, and it quickly became a staple in Southern cuisine. Today, coleslaw is enjoyed all over the world and can be found in countless variations.

Types of Coleslaw

There are many different types of coleslaw, each with its unique flavor profile. Some popular types of coleslaw include:

Classic Coleslaw: Made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing.
Vinegar-based Coleslaw: Made with a vinaigrette dressing, often with a sweet or sour flavor.
Spicy Coleslaw: Made with jalapenos, hot sauce, or other spicy ingredients for a kick of heat.
Fruity Coleslaw: Made with fruit, such as apples, grapes, or pineapple, for a sweet twist.
Asian-inspired Coleslaw: Made with sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for a flavorful twist.

Thanksgiving Coleslaw Recipes

When it comes to Thanksgiving coleslaw, there are countless recipes to choose from. Here are some of our favorites:

Classic Coleslaw

1 head of cabbage, shredded
2 carrots, peeled and grated
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the shredded cabbage and grated carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.

Cranberry Coleslaw

1 head of cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey

Mix the shredded cabbage, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.

Sweet Potato Coleslaw

1 sweet potato, peeled and grated
1 head of cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey

Mix the grated sweet potato, shredded cabbage, and chopped pecans in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.

Tips for Serving Coleslaw at Thanksgiving

Here are some tips for serving coleslaw at your Thanksgiving meal:

Make it ahead of time: Coleslaw can be made a day or two in advance, which will save you time on Thanksgiving Day.
Serve it as a side dish: Coleslaw pairs well with turkey, mashed potatoes, and other Thanksgiving staples.
Mix up the flavors: Try different types of coleslaw to add some variety to your meal.
Use seasonal ingredients: Incorporate fall produce like sweet potatoes, apples, and cranberries into your coleslaw for a festive touch.

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that can add some crunch and tang to your Thanksgiving meal. With so many variations to choose from, there's sure to be a coleslaw recipe that will complement your holiday feast. Whether you go for classic coleslaw or try something new, this tasty side dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, coleslaw can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Q2. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for coleslaw?

Yes, pre-shredded cabbage can be used for coleslaw to save time.

Q3. Can coleslaw be frozen?

Coleslaw should not be frozen as the texture will be compromised.

Q4. What can I substitute for mayonnaise in coleslaw?

Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise in coleslaw.

Q5. Is coleslaw gluten-free?

Most coleslaw recipes are gluten-free, but it's best to check the ingredients to be sure.

Q6. How long does coleslaw last in the fridge?

Coleslaw will last for 3-5 days in the fridge.

Q7. Can I add fruit to coleslaw?

Yes, fruit such as apples, grapes, and pineapple can be added to coleslaw for a sweet twist.

Q8. What spices can I add to coleslaw?

Spices such as cumin, paprika, and celery seed can be added to coleslaw for added flavor.

Q9. Can I make coleslaw without cabbage?

Yes, coleslaw can be made with other vegetables such as kale, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

Q10. Is coleslaw a healthy side dish?

Coleslaw can be a healthy side dish, depending on the ingredients used. Using a vinegar-based dressing or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can reduce the calorie count.