I’m so excited to share this Southern Vinegar Slaw recipe with you all. It’s a family favorite that’s been passed down for generations, and for good reason – it’s a game-changer for any meal.
The combination of tangy vinegar, sweetness from the sugar, and crunch from the cabbage is absolute perfection. My kids love it as a side dish, and my husband requests it every time we have a family gathering.
I’ve even been known to sneak it onto our weekly grocery list just so we can have it on hand for a quick and easy dinner. But what really sets this slaw apart is the technique behind it – the key to making it truly special is in the way you mix everything together.
You see, you want to make sure that each bite has just the right balance of flavors and textures, which means getting that cabbage nice and tender before adding in the rest of the ingredients. It’s a bit more work than some other slaw recipes, but trust me when I say it’s worth every minute.
I’ve tried this recipe at least a dozen times now, and every time it’s been a hit with my family and friends alike. So if you’re looking for a delicious side dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters, look no further than this Southern Vinegar Slaw recipe.
Southern Vinegar Slaw
4.6 from 578 votes
A tangy and crisp coleslaw made with a simple vinegar-based dressing instead of mayonnaise. This classic Southern side dish is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches.
1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), finely shredded
1 large carrot, grated
1/2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing
3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon celery seeds
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
1Place the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced onion in a large mixing bowl.
2Toss the vegetables together until they are evenly combined.
3In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, celery seeds, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4Whisk the mixture constantly until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved and the dressing is hot but not boiling, about 2 to 3 minutes.
5Pour the hot dressing over the cabbage mixture.
6Toss thoroughly with a large spoon or tongs to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
7Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the slaw to a storage container.
8Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly.
9The slaw can be made up to 2 days in advance and tastes even better after marinating.
For a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onion in cold water for 10 minutes and drain before adding to the slaw. This slaw is best served cold and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Watch Video Of How Southern Vinegar Slaw Works
One of the best things about this Southern Vinegar Slaw recipe is how easily it stores and reheats. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
When reheating, simply place the slaw in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop by placing it over low heat until warmed through.
This slaw is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a family gathering or packing it in lunches for school or work.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Vinegar Slaw
Q: What type of cabbage should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use either green or red cabbage for this recipe, but keep in mind that red cabbage will give your slaw a slightly sweeter flavor.
Q: Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this slaw up to 24 hours in advance, but be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Is this slaw suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
A: This slaw is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re using store-bought mayonnaise or vinegar, be sure to check the ingredients list for any allergens.
Q: Can I adjust the amount of vinegar in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can adjust the amount of vinegar to your taste – some people prefer a stronger vinegar flavor while others like it milder.
Q: What other ingredients can I add to this slaw?
A: Feel free to customize this slaw with your favorite ingredients – chopped onions, grated carrots, or diced bell peppers all work well.
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