Why BBQ Coleslaw Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you’re gearing up for a BBQ, I can’t stress enough how BBQ coleslaw is a must-have side dish. It adds a crunchy, invigorating contrast to smoky meats and rich flavors.
The tangy BBQ dressing brings everything together, making each bite exciting. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities.
I love that it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, serving BBQ coleslaw will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
Don’t skip this essential dish at your next cookout!
Ingredients of BBQ Coleslaw
When you’re ready to plunge into the world of BBQ coleslaw, you’ll want to gather all the right ingredients. This dish isn’t just about throwing some cabbage and carrots in a bowl; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. The combination of crunchy veggies and a zesty BBQ dressing is what makes this coleslaw truly special.
So, let’s get to it and take a look at what you need to whip up this delightful side dish.
Ingredients for BBQ Coleslaw:
- 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 spice level)
- 6 cups cabbage, shredded
- 2 cups carrots, shredded
Now, a couple of things to keep in mind when you’re gathering your ingredients. First off, the type of barbecue sauce you use can really make or break this dish. Whether you like it sweet, smoky, or tangy, pick one that speaks to your taste buds.
And don’t worry if you’re not a fan of sugar; using Splenda or another sugar substitute works just as well. Finally, if you’re in a pinch, pre-shredded cabbage and carrots are available at most grocery stores, but fresh is always best, right?
Just be prepared for a little arm workout if you decide to shred your own. It’s all part of the fun in the kitchen.
How to Make BBQ Coleslaw
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to make this BBQ coleslaw that’s sure to steal the show at your next cookout. First things first, grab a small saucepan and toss in 1/4 cup of cider vinegar along with 2 tablespoons of sugar—if you’re like me and trying to cut down on sugar, go ahead and use Splenda instead. Set that over low heat and let it simmer gently until the sugar dissolves. It’s like a little chemistry experiment right in your kitchen.
Once that’s done, stir in 2/3 cup of your favorite red barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce. This is where the magic happens—stir everything together until it’s all melted into a delicious dressing. Just be careful not to burn your fingers on the hot pan; I’ve done that more times than I care to admit.
Now, while that dressing is coming together, it’s time to tackle the veggies. Grab a large bowl and combine 6 cups of shredded cabbage with 2 cups of shredded carrots. If you’re feeling ambitious and want to shred your own, go for it. But if you’re like me and have a tendency to lose a finger in the process, just pick up a bag of pre-shredded veggies from the store.
Once your cabbage and carrots are in the bowl, pour that lovely BBQ dressing over the top and toss it all together. Make sure every piece of veggie gets a nice coating of that tangy, sweet goodness. It’s a little messy, but that’s half the fun, right?
After you’ve mixed everything well, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Seriously, the coleslaw needs to chill for a bit. The flavors need time to mingle and get all cozy with each other. Ideally, let it sit overnight, but if you’re like me and can’t wait, even a couple of hours will do.
When you finally dig in, you’ll find a revitalizing, crunchy side dish that perfectly complements all your BBQ favorites. Just remember, it’s best served cold—so don’t be tempted to skip that chilling step. Enjoy!
BBQ Coleslaw Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic BBQ coleslaw recipe, it’s fun to experiment with substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you want a crunchier texture, add chopped apples or nuts. You can also swap out the cabbage for kale or broccoli slaw for a twist.
For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or use a zesty barbecue sauce. Don’t forget to play with the sweetness—honey or agave can replace sugar.
Feel free to get creative, and make it your own!
What to Serve with BBQ Coleslaw
Since BBQ coleslaw adds a revitalizing crunch and tangy flavor, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes.
I love serving it alongside smoky grilled meats like pulled pork or ribs, as the coleslaw really complements the BBQ flavors. It also works great with burgers, adding a invigorating crunch that balances out the richness.
If you’re keeping it lighter, try it with grilled chicken or fish. For a picnic, it’s a hit with sandwiches, particularly those with barbecue fillings.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong; the vibrant flavors enhance just about any meal you serve it with!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your BBQ coleslaw turns out perfectly every time, I recommend prepping it a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness or tanginess; if you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add more sugar or use a sweeter barbecue sauce. For a crunchier texture, serve it sooner after mixing.
You can also experiment with different veggies like bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Finally, remember to taste your dressing before combining it with the cabbage; it’s always good to make sure it’s just right!