Spicy Jalapeño Coleslaw
Jump to RecipeAre you looking to spice up your next barbecue or picnic? Look no further than this vibrant Spicy Jalapeño Coleslaw that brings a delightful kick to a classic side dish. Made with fresh green cabbage and crunchy carrots, this coleslaw gets its heat from finely chopped jalapeño peppers, making it the perfect complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos. With a creamy mayonnaise base balanced by the tang of apple cider vinegar, each bite is a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Easy to prepare and packed with crunch, this coleslaw can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or simply looking for a refreshing side to brighten up your meals, this Spicy Jalapeño Coleslaw is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
green cabbage
Choose a firm, dense head of cabbage. For a sweeter flavor, you can substitute with Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage. To prepare, remove the outer leaves, cut it in half, and then shred or slice as desired.
carrots
Use fresh, firm carrots for the best crunch. You can substitute with shredded pre-packaged carrots or even use colorful varieties like purple or yellow carrots for added visual appeal. Grate them using a box grater or a food processor for quick preparation.
jalapeño pepper
Select a firm jalapeño with smooth skin. For less heat, remove the seeds and white membranes inside. As a substitute, you can use a milder pepper like a banana pepper or a little diced bell pepper, though these will change the flavor profile. Consider roasting the jalapeño for a deeper, smoky flavor.
mayonnaise
Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative. For a flavor twist, consider adding a bit of sriracha or chipotle mayo.
apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar adds tanginess and brightness. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice. To enhance the flavor, consider infusing the vinegar with herbs or spices before using.
sugar
Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar. You can substitute with honey, agave syrup, or a sugar alternative like stevia, adjusting the quantity to taste. If you prefer a more complex flavor, try using brown sugar for a slight molasses note.
salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in the coleslaw. If you're watching sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium salt or a salt substitute. For a gourmet touch, try using flaky sea salt or smoked salt to add depth.
black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper will provide the best flavor. You can substitute with white pepper for a milder taste or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the peppercorns before grinding.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded green cabbage and 1 cup of grated carrots. This combination provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your coleslaw.Step 2: Add Jalapeño
Finely chop 1 whole jalapeño pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds before chopping. Add the chopped jalapeño to the cabbage and carrot mixture. This step adds a spicy kick to your coleslaw.Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until smooth. This dressing balances the heat of the jalapeño with the creaminess of mayonnaise.Step 4: Combine Dressing and Vegetables
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Ensure that the vegetables are evenly distributed to avoid clumps.Step 5: Season to Taste and Refrigerate
Taste your coleslaw and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like it spicier, add more jalapeño; if you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I properly shred cabbage for coleslaw?
To shred cabbage, remove the outer leaves and cut the cabbage in half. Place one half cut-side down on the cutting board, then slice it into thin strips using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Aim for strips about 1/4 inch wide for the best texture.
What’s the best way to grate carrots?
Use a box grater or a food processor fitted with a grating attachment. If using a box grater, choose the side with the largest holes for a coarse grate, which will give a nice texture to your coleslaw.
How can I adjust the heat level of the jalapeño?
To reduce the heat, remove the seeds and the white membrane inside the jalapeño before chopping it. If you want more heat, leave the seeds in or add another jalapeño.
Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! Coleslaw can be made a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve. Allowing it to sit helps the flavors meld together.
What’s the purpose of adding sugar in coleslaw?
Sugar balances the acidity from the vinegar and the spiciness of the jalapeño, enhancing the overall flavor of the coleslaw. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
How do I know if my coleslaw is well-seasoned?
Taste your coleslaw after mixing in the dressing. It should have a balance of creaminess, tanginess, and a hint of sweetness. If it tastes bland, add more salt or vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Is there a way to make coleslaw healthier?
You can substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
What should I do if my coleslaw dressing is too thick?
If your dressing is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little bit of water or extra vinegar until you reach your desired consistency.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
To make this coleslaw lighter, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. For a vegan option, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit varying heat preferences, or include other fresh herbs like mint or parsley for different flavor profiles.
Pairings
Pair the Spicy Jalapeño Coleslaw with grilled meats such as BBQ chicken, pork ribs, or fish tacos. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside black bean burgers or grilled veggie skewers. A cold beer, like a pale ale or a lager, complements the heat of the jalapeños, while a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, provides a refreshing contrast. For non-alcoholic options, consider iced tea or lemonade with a hint of lime.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the coleslaw chilled in a large bowl or in individual cups for a fun presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added color and flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed tortilla chips on top for added texture. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or taco nights, bringing a refreshing crunch to any meal.
Spicy Jalapeño Coleslaw
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Description
A zesty and crunchy slaw with a spicy kick from jalapeños, perfect as a side dish or topping for tacos.
Ingredients
- green cabbage: 4 cups
- carrots: 1 cup
- jalapeño pepper: 1 whole
- mayonnaise: 1 cup
- apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- sugar: 1 tablespoon
- salt: 1 teaspoon
- black pepper: 1 teaspoon
Date Created:
3/9/2025