Tired of the same old salads? Craving something vibrant, crunchy, and bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This Crunchy Chinese Coleslaw recipe is your answer. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish perfect for busy weeknights or a vibrant addition to your next barbecue. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to elevate your mealtimes with this easy recipe and homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Start by prepping your vegetables. Thinly slice the green cabbage, julienne or shred the carrot, and thinly slice the red bell pepper. Chop the green onions. The finer you chop the veggies, the better the dressing will coat them. This is a crucial step for optimal texture and taste.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, and minced garlic. Make sure everything is well combined. This homemade dressing is the star of the show.
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Combine and Toss: Add the sliced cabbage, shredded carrot, bell pepper, and green onions to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Don’t over-toss, as this can bruise the cabbage.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling period is key – it allows the cabbage to soften slightly and absorb the delicious dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Crunchy Chinese Coleslaw:
- For extra crunch: Add some toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds just before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet slaw, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Make it ahead: This slaw is even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Coleslaw: Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the dressing for a nutty twist.
- Spicy Coleslaw: Add a chopped chili pepper to the vegetables for an extra spicy kick.
- Mandarin Orange Coleslaw: Add a 1/2 cup of mandarin orange segments for a burst of sweetness and citrus flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This Crunchy Chinese Coleslaw is a healthy meal option, a perfect side dish for quick dinner ideas, a fantastic example of delicious dishes, and among the best recipes you can easily make at home. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful side dish!