Why BBQ Coleslaw Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you’re firing up the grill, I can’t stress enough how BBQ coleslaw should be on your must-make list.
This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a game-changer. The crunchy cabbage and sweet, tangy barbecue dressing add a revitalizing contrast to smoky meats. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, letting you focus on grilling.
It complements everything from ribs to chicken, making every bite a delight. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a colorful plate?
Trust me, once you serve BBQ coleslaw at your next cookout, it’ll quickly become a favorite that everyone will request again and again.
Ingredients of BBQ Coleslaw
When it comes to making BBQ coleslaw, the ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create something truly special. You’ll need a mix of crunchy veggies and a zingy dressing that gives the coleslaw its famous flavor. This recipe isn’t just about tossing cabbage and carrots together; it’s about creating a balance of sweetness and tang that complements your grilled meats perfectly.
So, let’s gather the ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of this delightful side dish.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or Splenda, if you prefer)
- 2/3 cup red barbecue sauce (choose your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (adjust to your taste)
- 6 cups cabbage, shredded
- 2 cups carrots, shredded
Now, while these ingredients are pretty standard, here are a couple of things you might want to take into account. First off, that barbecue sauce? It’s like the star of the show, so pick one that you really love.
Whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy, it will set the tone for the entire dish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily tweak the amount of Tabasco sauce based on how much heat you like. Remember, it’s all about making it your own.
Finally, if you want to save some time, you can buy pre-shredded cabbage and carrots. Just don’t tell anyone I said that; we all want to look like kitchen rock stars, right?
How to Make BBQ Coleslaw
Alright, let’s plunge into making that BBQ coleslaw. It’s easier than you might think, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
First things first, grab a small saucepan and add in 1/4 cup of cider vinegar and 2 tablespoons of sugar (or Splenda if you’re feeling a bit calorie-conscious). Turn the heat to low and stir it gently until that sugar dissolves. It’s like magic—watching those granules disappear.
Once that’s done, stir in 2/3 cup of your favorite red barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce. Feel free to adjust that Tabasco based on your heat tolerance. Are you a spice warrior or more of a gentle soul? You decide! Keep stirring until everything is nicely blended and you can just smell those flavors coming together.
Now, let’s talk about the veggies. In a large bowl, combine 6 cups of shredded cabbage and 2 cups of shredded carrots. If shredding doesn’t sound like your idea of a fun day, no worries—there’s always store-bought options. Just don’t tell anyone, okay?
Once your veggies are in the bowl, pour that delicious BBQ dressing you just made all over them. This is where the magic happens. Toss everything together, making sure every shred of cabbage and carrot gets a good coating of that zesty dressing. It’s a bit messy, and you might end up with some dressing on your hands, but hey, that just means you’re working hard in the kitchen.
After you’ve tossed everything to your heart’s content, cover that bowl and pop it in the refrigerator. Now, here’s the secret: it’s best to let this coleslaw chill overnight. It gives the flavors time to mingle and get all cozy together.
When you finally serve it, you’ll be rewarded with a tangy, sweet, crunchy delight that complements your BBQ perfectly. Just remember, if you can resist plunging in right away, you’ll be doing yourself a favor. But if you can’t, I get it. Sometimes, it’s just too good to wait.
BBQ Coleslaw Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your BBQ coleslaw, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a crunchier texture, try adding sliced bell peppers or radishes. If you’re after a sweeter taste, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of sugar.
Swap out the regular barbecue sauce for a spicy or smoky version to kick things up a notch. You can even experiment with different types of cabbage, like purple or Napa, for added color.
And don’t forget to throw in some chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for freshness. Enjoy your creativity!
What to Serve with BBQ Coleslaw
BBQ coleslaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile side for any gathering.
I love serving it alongside grilled meats like ribs, burgers, or chicken—its tangy flavor perfectly complements smoky BBQ. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, it goes great with fish tacos or grilled vegetables.
I’ve also found that it’s a hit at potlucks when paired with pulled pork sandwiches. For a complete meal, consider adding cornbread or baked beans.
Trust me, BBQ coleslaw elevates any dish and adds that revitalizing crunch everyone enjoys. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your BBQ coleslaw, keep in mind a few tips to enhance its flavor and texture.
First, using fresh cabbage and carrots makes a noticeable difference; I always shred my own for the crunch. If you like a bit of sweetness, adjust the sugar to taste. For a creamier dressing, feel free to increase the mayonnaise.
I also recommend letting it chill overnight—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finally, try adding some diced jalapeños or bell peppers for an extra kick. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to tweak it to suit your taste!