Old Fashioned Hot Slaw Recipe

Old-fashioned hot slaw is a delicious and versatile side dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

With its tangy flavors and satisfying crunch, this delectable dish can complement a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to hearty casseroles.

The recipe calls for simple ingredients like cabbage, vinegar, and seasonings, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for just about any home cook.

To prepare your very own old-fashioned hot slaw, start by shredding cabbage and gathering your seasonings, which commonly include salt, pepper and prepared mustard.

You’ll also need a few additional ingredients, such as eggs, vinegar, and sugar, for the tasty dressing.

Remember, a traditional hot slaw invites experimentation with spices and additional ingredients, so don’t hesitate to explore and make the dish your own.

How to Make Old Fashioned Hot Slaw

Ingredients List

To make a delicious Old Fashioned Hot Slaw, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 medium head cabbage (green cabbage is preferred), shredded
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

You may opt for white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar and olive oil instead of vegetable oil as per your preference.

Step-by-step process

Step 1: Prep the cabbage and carrots

Use a food processor or a sharp knife to shred the cabbage and carrots.

Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Cook the bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it is crisp.

Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to let it drain.

Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the onions

In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped medium onion and cook until softened and slightly translucent over medium heat (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Add the cabbage and carrots

Stir the shredded cabbage and carrots into the skillet with the onions.

Cook for about 5 minutes, occasionally stirring to ensure even cooking.

Season with salt and black pepper during this step.

Step 5: Prepare the hot dressing

In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed.

Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 6: Add the vegetable oil and mustard

Slowly whisk in the vegetable oil and yellow mustard into the vinegar mixture.

Continue heating the sauce on low until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Pour the hot dressing over the cabbage mixture

Once the dressing is heated and thickened, carefully pour it over the cabbage mixture in the skillet.

Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the hot dressing.

Step 8: Finish with bacon and green onions

Top the hot slaw with the cooked bacon and green onions, if desired.

Serve immediately while the slaw is still warm, and enjoy your Old Fashioned Hot Slaw!

Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Hot Slaw

Old Fashioned Hot Slaw, with its tangy and slightly spicy flavor, can be a fantastic complement to various main courses.

Here are a few side dishes that pair perfectly with Old Fashioned Hot Slaw.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

You can’t go wrong with pulled pork sandwiches as a hearty and flavorful main dish to accompany Old Fashioned Hot Slaw.

The tender, savory meat pairs well with the crisp and tangy slaw.

The combination of the two creates a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that everyone will enjoy.

Fish Tacos

For a lighter option, try serving Old Fashioned Hot Slaw alongside fish tacos.

The flaky, mild fish combined with the bright, refreshing flavors of the slaw makes for a well-balanced and delicious meal.

The slaw acts as a palate cleanser, cutting through the richness of the fish and providing a delightful contrast of textures.

Barbecue

Old Fashioned Hot Slaw also makes for a great side dish at a barbecue.

It can accompany various grilled meats, such as burgers, sausages, ribs, and steaks.

The tangy, vinegar-based flavor of the slaw pairs incredibly well with the smoky, rich taste of barbecued food.

It also helps to enhance the overall experience by adding a refreshing and zesty note to the meal.

In conclusion, Old Fashioned Hot Slaw’s versatile flavor profile makes it an ideal accompaniment to a range of dishes, from hearty sandwiches and tacos to an assortment of barbecued meats.

So, go ahead and try these side dishes with your homemade Old Fashioned Hot Slaw to elevate your meal to new heights of taste and satisfaction.

Ingredient Substitutes

In your journey to create the perfect old-fashioned hot slaw, you may occasionally find yourself in need of ingredient substitutes.

Fret not, for there are many options available to help you maintain the classic taste of this beloved dish.

Below is a list of main ingredient substitutes, each with a brief explanation of why they make a good alternative.

Pre-packaged coleslaw mix

For a quick and convenient substitute, you can opt for a store-bought coleslaw mix instead of chopping fresh cabbage and other ingredients yourself.

These mixes typically include shredded cabbage, carrots, and sometimes onions, making it easy for you to put together your hot slaw with minimal effort.

Use these substitutes as a guide to help you adapt your old-fashioned hot slaw recipe to your personal preferences and needs.

Stick with the original ingredients or utilize these alternatives to create the perfect dish that meets your tastes and requirements.

How to Store Old Fashioned Hot Slaw

Storing Old Fashioned Hot Slaw properly is crucial to maintaining its freshness and flavor.

There are a few main storage methods to consider when keeping your delicious hot slaw in perfect condition.

To make it easier for you, we have compiled a list of the main storage methods along with brief descriptions of each.

Airtight Container

Using an airtight container is the most common and effective method for preserving the freshness and quality of your Old Fashioned Hot Slaw.

To do this, simply transfer the prepared hot slaw into a container with a secure, tight-fitting lid.

Ensure that the container is made of food-grade material like plastic or glass.

Store the airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally on the middle or lower shelves where the temperature remains consistent.

Freezing

Another option for storing your Old Fashioned Hot Slaw is by freezing it.

Before doing this, allow the hot slaw to cool completely.

Transfer the slaw into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags.

Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.

Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification later on.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen hot slaw, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Wrapping in Plastic Wrap

If you find yourself without an airtight container, wrapping your Old Fashioned Hot Slaw in plastic wrap is another viable option.

Place the slaw on a plate or in a shallow bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap against the slaw to remove as much air as possible.

Store the wrapped slaw in the refrigerator, and remember to consume it within a few days.

Keep these storage methods in mind when you need to preserve your tasty Old Fashioned Hot Slaw, and you can enjoy its delicious flavors for days to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing Old Fashioned Hot Slaw.

Using a mayo-based dressing

While you might be tempted to use a mayo-based dressing, it is important to remember that the old-fashioned hot slaw recipe calls for a vinegar-based dressing.

Using mayo will result in a completely different taste and consistency than traditional hot slaw.

Not draining the cabbage properly.

Before you begin preparing your hot slaw, make sure to drain the cabbage properly.

You can do this by placing the shredded cabbage in a colander and allowing any excess moisture to drain off.

Alternatively, you can also use a paper towel to pat the cabbage dry.

Failing to drain the cabbage will cause your hot slaw to be watery and less flavorful.

Overcooking the cabbage

When preparing your hot slaw, it’s important not to overcook the cabbage.

Overcooking will result in a mushy and unappealing texture.

To avoid this, cook the cabbage only until it is softened but still has some crunch to it.

This will maintain the appealing texture that makes hot slaw so delicious.

Expecting the perfect recipe on the first try

When attempting an old-fashioned hot slaw recipe, it’s crucial to be patient and not expect perfection on your first try.

The hot slaw can be a bit tricky, as the balance of flavors and textures requires some practice.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if your initial attempt isn’t perfect. Experiment with different levels of seasonings and cooking times until you find the right balance for your personal taste preferences.