Asian Coleslaw Recipe takes the classic coleslaw and puts a new spin on it. It serves a modern combination of tastes and textures. The stark contrasts of zing and crunch make it a delightful combination. The lack of creamy mayo really makes it a new coleslaw. Instead, it pairs perfectly with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce domes. It becomes a Zen coleslaw with a perfect blend of cooling and satisfying, and new tastes.
Asian coleslaw will work with most family gatherings and BBQs. It is versatile enough to work with grilled meats and light enough to eat alone. Furthermore, it can take on many forms with the use of different veggies like cabbage and carrots. Personal additions like cilantro and bell peppers work the same and focus on a positive to make the dish what you like.
In addition, this dish has a lot of health benefits! The vegetables used: cabbage, carrots, and other ingredients in Asian coleslaw, are a great source of fibre, antioxidants, and vitamins. This makes the coleslaw tasty and a good addition to a healthy diet! I hope you appreciate this recipe as a low-calorie side dish, a healthier slaw in meal prep, or a healthier option besides slaw.
- What is Asian Coleslaw?
- Why You Should Try This Asian Coleslaw Recipe
- Key Ingredients for an Asian Coleslaw Recipe
- How to Make the Perfect Asian Coleslaw Recipe
- Variations of Asian Coleslaw to Try
- How to Customize Your Asian Coleslaw Recipe
- Tips for Making the Best Asian Coleslaw
- Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Coleslaw Recipe
- Health Benefits of Asian Coleslaw
- Conclusion
- Share Your Twist!
What is Asian Coleslaw?
Asian coleslaw is a fun variation of the classic coleslaw with different colours and ingredients from Asian foods. Unlike classic slaw, which has mayonnaise and vinegar dressings, Asian coleslaw uses sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, so the dressing is lighter. The dish is crunchy, refreshing, and tangy, making it a great main or side dish.
Unlike other dishes, this one has a unique combination of different textures and flavours. The crunchiness of the cabbage, sweetness from honey or sugar, saltiness from soy sauce, and rich aroma of sesame oil all play a part in balancing a symphony of distinctly Asian flavours.
Why You Should Try This Asian Coleslaw Recipe
If you’re looking for something light, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this Asian coleslaw recipe is a perfect choice. There are many reasons why you should give this recipe a try:
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just a few minutes. There’s no cooking involved—just fresh ingredients and a delicious dressing.
- Healthy: Packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, this Asian coleslaw recipe is a nutritious addition to your meal.
- Versatile: It can be served as a side dish, used as a topping for tacos, or even mixed with grilled chicken or tofu to make a complete meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance and have it ready for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
By using this recipe, you can introduce a whole new level of flavour to your regular coleslaw, making it more exciting and appealing.
Key Ingredients for an Asian Coleslaw Recipe
To create an authentic Asian coleslaw recipe, you will need a combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a flavorful dressing. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Cabbage: The base of any coleslaw. You can use green cabbage, purple cabbage, or a mix of both. Green cabbage offers a crunchy texture, while purple cabbage adds color and a slightly milder flavor.
- Carrots: Shredded or julienned carrots provide sweetness and additional crunch.
- Scallions (Green Onions): Adds a mild onion flavor and some extra color.
- Optional Add-ins:
- Bell peppers for a touch of sweetness.
- Edamame for protein.
- Cilantro for a fresh herbal flavor.
- Radishes for an extra crunch and peppery bite.
Dressing Ingredients:
Optional: Sriracha or chili flakes for heat.
Sesame Oil: Adds a deep, nutty flavor that is characteristic of many Asian dishes.
Rice Vinegar: Provides the tangy base for the dressing. You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Soy Sauce: For the salty umami flavor. You can use tamari for a gluten-free version.
Honey or Sugar: Sweetens the dressing to balance out the acidity of the vinegar.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty and aromatic note to the dressing.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungency.
Lime Juice: Adds a citrusy kick to brighten up the coleslaw.
How to Make the Perfect Asian Coleslaw Recipe
Making this Asian coleslaw recipe is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for a dish that is full of flavour and texture.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by shredding the cabbage and carrots. You can use a mandoline slicer, a food processor, or a sharp knife for this. The goal is to create thin strips that will absorb the dressing well.
If you’re adding bell peppers, radishes, or cilantro, chop them into small pieces for easy incorporation into the coleslaw.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, combine the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey or sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and lime juice. Whisk the ingredients until the honey or sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. If you like it spicy, add some sriracha or chilli flakes for extra heat.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables and Dressing
Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and any additional vegetables to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until the cabbage is fully coated.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with optional garnishes like sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or cilantro. If you prefer a creamy texture, add a spoonful of mayo or Greek yoghurt to the dressing before tossing it all together.
Variations of Asian Coleslaw to Try
While the Asian coleslaw recipe above is fantastic on its own, there are many variations that you can try to make it more exciting. Here are some ideas:
1. Korean-Inspired Asian Coleslaw
Add kimchi to the coleslaw for an extra tangy and spicy kick. Gochujang (Korean chilli paste) can also be used in the dressing for additional depth of flavour.
2. Japanese-Inspired Asian Coleslaw
Swap the sesame oil for miso paste and add wasabi to the dressing for a creamy, spicy variation that has a distinctly Japanese flavour profile.
3. Vegan/Gluten-Free Asian Coleslaw
For a vegan or gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and opt for agave nectar instead of honey. You can also add tofu or edamame to increase the protein content.
4. Fruit-Infused Asian Coleslaw
For a sweeter twist, add fruits like mango, pineapple, or apples to your slaw. These fruits bring a refreshing sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing.
How to Customize Your Asian Coleslaw Recipe
The beauty of this Asian coleslaw recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas on how to customize it to suit your taste:
Spice It Up: If you love spice, increase the amount of sriracha or add chopped fresh chilies to the dressing.
Add More Vegetables: Try adding cucumber, jicama, or bell peppers for a colorful, crunchy slaw.
Protein Add-ins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this slaw into a main dish.
Tips for Making the Best Asian Coleslaw
Dress Just Before Serving: If you’re preparing this in advance, store the dressing separately and toss it with the slaw just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Cut Veggies Thinly: Thinly sliced cabbage and carrots ensure that the dressing soaks in better, making each bite flavorful.
Chill Before Serving: Let your coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. The cold also helps to keep the cabbage crunchy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Coleslaw Recipe
Can I make this Asian coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a day in advance. Just store the dressing separately and toss everything together when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Pre-shredded cabbage works well if you’re short on time, but fresh cabbage will always provide the best texture and crunch.
How can I make the dressing spicier?
Add more sriracha or fresh chili to the dressing for extra heat. You can also include pickled ginger for a zesty kick.
Can I make a creamy Asian coleslaw?
Yes, you can add a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy texture.
Health Benefits of Asian Coleslaw
| Health Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| High in Fiber | The cabbage and carrots in Asian coleslaw are rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. |
| Rich in Vitamins | Cabbage is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which helps boost immunity, while carrots provide Vitamin A for eye health. |
| Low in Calories | The dish is light and low in calories, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight. |
| Packed with Antioxidants | Ingredients like cabbage and carrots contain antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. |
| Promotes Heart Health | The use of sesame oil adds healthy fats, which can help improve cholesterol levels and support heart health. |
| Boosts Immunity | Vitamin C from cabbage strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses. |
| Improves Skin Health | The beta-carotene in carrots promotes healthy skin by combating oxidative stress and preventing premature aging. |
| Supports Bone Health | Both cabbage and carrots contain essential minerals like calcium and magnesium that support strong bones and teeth. |
This table highlights the nutritional benefits of Asian coleslaw and demonstrates how it’s not just a tasty side dish but also a healthy addition to your diet!
Pairing Your Asian Coleslaw
Asian coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Try it with:
Tacos: Use it as a crunchy topping for fish or pulled pork tacos.
Grilled meats: It complements grilled chicken, pork, or fish beautifully.
Asian-inspired dishes: Pair it with teriyaki chicken or sushi for a cohesive meal.
Asian Coleslaw Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Grater (for carrots)
- Small bowl (for the dressing)
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage green or purple or a mix of both
- 2 medium carrots shredded
- 3-4 scallions thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili flakes for spice
- Optional: Sesame seeds chopped peanuts, or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage and carrots using a sharp knife, mandoline slicer, or food processor. Thinly slice the scallions.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), ginger, garlic, and lime juice. Add sriracha or chili flakes for spice, if desired. Whisk until the honey or sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and sliced scallions. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, top the coleslaw with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or fresh cilantro. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tips: This Asian coleslaw can be made ahead of time but should be dressed just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the cabbage. You can prepare the veggies and dressing separately, then combine them right before serving.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a full dish.
- Customization: Feel free to add fruits like mango or pineapple for a sweet twist, or even edamame for extra protein.
- Storage: Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 1-2 days, though the veggies may soften slightly over time.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, this Asian coleslaw recipe adds a wonderful and refreshing spin to traditional coleslaw, filled with flavours that everyone will love. The crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and tangy dressing combo results in a perfect balance of tastes to accompany any meal. You can serve it for a BBQ, picnic, or light side dish. It’s nutritious and easy to prepare, making it a multipurpose coleslaw recipe that will definitely fit your menu.
The Asian coleslaw recipe is also filled with tons of health benefits, as well as strong vitamins and antioxidants, fibre, and much more. It is a customizable recipe, which means you can use any of your desired ingredients. Try it out and enjoy experimenting with this recipe to bring those delicious flavours to your table!
Share Your Twist!
The versatile coleslaw recipe can be customised without any worries. Adding tropical fruits like mango or pineapple can make coleslaw sweeter, while fresh chilli can add a spicy touch. You can switch it with different types of cabbage or add some crunchy nuts, almonds, or cashews.
As per tradition, we allow a full discussion of the customisation of Asian coleslaw. We enable commenting on the recipe. You can add grilled chicken or mayonnaise, or any creative customisation. We try to add new flavours with every recipe. We try to add new flavours with every recipe.
