Barbecue Coleslaw
Barbecue coleslaw combines crunchy shredded cabbage and carrots with a smoky, tangy dressing infused with barbecue sauce, vinegar, and mustard. Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or picnics, its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cider vinegar and sugar in a small saucepan.
- Cook over low heat just until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in barbecue sauce, water, mayonnaise, mustard powder, and red pepper seasoning.
- Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or swapping in white vinegar for the cider vinegar. You can also enhance the heat by increasing the liquid red pepper seasoning. If you want a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For a crunchier coleslaw, add chopped apples or nuts. This recipe is versatile enough to pair with dishes like Vegetarian Chili With Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this barbecue coleslaw alongside grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches and burgers. It pairs beautifully with Peach Cobbler Cake for a delightful summer meal. For a complete picnic spread, consider serving with Summertime Ice Tea and Fresh Vegetable Dip to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld as it sits, but keep in mind that the cabbage may become slightly softer over time. If you need to refresh the coleslaw before serving, give it a quick toss and add a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Coleslaw contains roughly 919 calories, with 23g protein, 201g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (211% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 704mg 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 make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the crunch of the cabbage and carrots. Mix the dressing in right before serving to ensure the vegetables stay fresh and crisp.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this coleslaw vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative such as vegan mayo or cashew cream. Ensure that the barbecue sauce used is also vegan-friendly, as some brands contain animal products.
What can I add to customize the coleslaw?
You can customize this coleslaw by adding ingredients like chopped bell peppers, green onions, or even diced jalapeños for extra spice. Additionally, incorporating fruits like pineapple or mango can give a sweet twist to the dish. Don't hesitate to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste!
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).