Craving something delicious and refreshing to balance out those fiery hot chicken wings? Look no further! This Dave's Hot Chicken Coleslaw recipe is the perfect cooling counterpoint to any spicy meal. It's quick, easy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow, guaranteeing a homemade success that rivals any restaurant. Let's dive in and create the ultimate side dish for your next delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar (granulated or your preferred type)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Instructions:
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Whisk the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This forms the base of your delicious coleslaw dressing.
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Combine the Vegetables: Add the thinly sliced red onion, shredded green cabbage, and shredded carrots to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor profile. The longer it chills, the better it tastes, but 30 minutes is the minimum.
Cooking Tips for the Best Coleslaw:
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Shredding Vegetables: For optimal texture, use a sharp knife or a food processor to shred the cabbage and carrots finely. This ensures even cooking and prevents chunky pieces from ruining the dish’s overall feel. Consider wearing gloves when prepping the onions to avoid tearful eyes!
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Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add a bit more sugar to the dressing. Conversely, for a tangier version, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar. Taste as you go to personalize the flavor to your liking, remembering that this simple side dish can become a star.
Delicious Variations:
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Creamy Coleslaw: For a creamier coleslaw, use a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream in the dressing. This creates a more decadent and rich texture.
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Spicy Coleslaw: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick. This will beautifully complement the spiciness of your main dish, creating a balanced flavor profile.
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Herby Coleslaw: Enhance the flavors further by adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives. This elevates the side dish and adds depth and complexity.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This delicious and easy-to-make Dave's Hot Chicken Coleslaw recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Its vibrant flavors and refreshing coolness make it a delightful complement to any spicy or grilled dish, offering a healthy and flavorful balance. Enjoy!