Memphis Slaw

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A tangy, sweet and creamy coleslaw with a Memphis twist, featuring mustard, pickles, and a simple vinaigrette—perfect for BBQs, picnics, or as a flavorful side dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup prepared mustard
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 small head cabbage, grated (6 cups)
  • 1/4 cup chopped sweet pickles

Instructions

  1. Combine the sugar, prepared mustard, white vinegar, sweet pickle juice, and salt in a bowl.
  2. Whisk with a wire whisk until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Combine the grated cabbage and chopped sweet pickles in a large bowl.
  4. Add the dressing to the cabbage mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Chill the slaw for 1 hour before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a tangier slaw, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of horseradish to the dressing. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less mustard or substitute with a creamy dressing. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. This Memphis Slaw can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Memphis Slaw as a refreshing side dish to grilled meats, especially with dishes like Gracie'S Barbecue Sauce For Spare Ribs. It's perfect for picnics or barbecues, adding crunch and sweetness to your plate. Consider pairing it with corn on the cob or a hearty potato salad for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw may become slightly watery as it sits, so give it a good toss before serving again. Reheating is not recommended, as the texture is best enjoyed chilled and crisp.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Memphis Slaw contains roughly 64 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1883mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).

64 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 13.8g 5% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 6g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1882.6mg 82% DV
Potassium 125.5mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.3mcg
Vitamin C 12.4mg 14% DV
Calcium 16mg 1% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 add other vegetables to this slaw?

Yes, feel free to customize your Memphis Slaw by adding shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even radishes for extra crunch and color. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantity if you add a significant amount of additional vegetables to maintain the right flavor balance.

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).

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