The vibrant colors and fresh crunch of coleslaw make it a wonderful addition to any meal. Traditional coleslaw can often be a bit heavy with its creamy dressing, but this Oriental Coleslaw recipe offers a lighter, more refreshing twist that's perfect for warm days or as a side to spicy dishes. Let's dive into making this easy and delicious variation.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large carrots, julienned
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1⁄4 cup toasted slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1⁄4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by prepping your vegetables. Shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even slices. Julienne the carrots and bell pepper to ensure they cook uniformly and look appealing in the salad. Slice the green onions to add a pop of color and flavor.
Making the Dressing
Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Mix or shake well until the honey dissolves and the dressing is well blended. This mixture brings a sweet and tangy taste that complements the crunch of the vegetables.
Assembling the Salad
In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced green onions, and julienned red bell pepper. If you like your coleslaw with a bit more texture, go ahead and add the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and dried cranberries now. If not, these can be used as toppings later.
🌟 Note: You can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. Just mix in the dressing when you're ready to serve to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
Serving
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together to ensure each bite is well seasoned. Add the almonds, sesame seeds, and dried cranberries if you’ve reserved them. You can also sprinkle a few more for garnish if you like.
Customization
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Nutty Flavor: Include some crushed peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
- Extra Crunch: Consider adding crispy noodles or fried wonton strips just before serving for texture.
This Oriental Coleslaw isn't just a delicious side; it's a versatile dish that can stand alone or complement a variety of main courses, from Asian cuisine to grilled meats or even as part of a BBQ spread. The dressing's light and tangy notes make it a perfect balance to richer foods, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
+
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately in advance. Combine them only when you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness and crispness.
What can I substitute for sesame oil?
+
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use extra-virgin olive oil or walnut oil, but remember, this will change the flavor profile slightly.
Is this coleslaw suitable for vegans?
+
Yes, as long as you use vegan honey alternatives or leave it out, this coleslaw recipe is vegan-friendly.
Can I use store-bought coleslaw mix?
+
Absolutely! Using a store-bought coleslaw mix can save time, but ensure you add the bell pepper and green onions for the full flavor experience.
How long can I store this coleslaw in the fridge?
+
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if stored correctly in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 2 days. However, the texture might soften over time due to the dressing.
