24 Hour Cole Slaw
A tangy, sweet, and crunchy coleslaw with a distinctive vinegar and mustard flavor profile. Perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings, this slaw develops its full flavor after a day in the fridge, offering a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil vinegar, salt, mustard, and oil for 3 minutes.
- Pour the hot mixture over shredded cabbage, onion, and bell pepper.
- Sprinkle sugar over all and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding shredded carrots or radishes to the slaw. If you're looking for a lower sugar option, you can reduce the sugar to 1 cup or use a sugar substitute. For a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños. This slaw can be customized with different vegetables such as shredded broccoli or cauliflower for variety. Make sure to shred the cabbage finely for better texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cole slaw pairs beautifully with Eastern North Carolina Barbecue Sauce and is the perfect side for grilled meats, sandwiches, or picnics. Serve it alongside Deer Steak for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, enjoy it with a simple grilled chicken breast. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cole slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. There’s no need to reheat this dish, as it’s best enjoyed cold. If you find it too watery after a couple of days, simply drain the excess liquid before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Hour Cole Slaw contains roughly 241 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of oil instead of Wesson oil?
Yes, you can substitute Wesson oil with other neutral oils like canola oil or sunflower oil. Olive oil can also be used for a more robust flavor, but it may change the overall taste of the cole slaw. Choose an oil that complements the acidity of the vinegar for the best results.
How can I make this cole slaw vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it does not contain any animal products. However, if you want a creamier texture, consider adding a vegan mayonnaise or a dollop of plant-based yogurt. This will keep the slaw refreshing while adding a rich flavor without compromising its vegan status.
Is it necessary to let the cole slaw sit for 24 hours?
Yes, letting the cole slaw marinate in the refrigerator for 24 hours allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. The cabbage will soften slightly, making it more enjoyable to eat. If you're short on time, you can let it sit for at least a few hours, but overnight is ideal for the best flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).