Carolina Red slaw is different from traditional coleslaw. Instead of mayonnaise, this slaw uses a vinegar dressing. This version of is slaw perfect for outdoor serving, as it can be stored for longer periods without refrigeration. The tanginess of ketchup, and spices, gives this side dish delicious flavor.
Last weekend, my husband was craving Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Slaw is a perfect side dish to go with pulled pork– either in the sandwich or as a side dish.
I read an article about Carolina Slaw and I was intrigued. The ingredients includes cider vinegar, a bit of red pepper flakes and ketchup– I had all of the ingredients on hand. My husband looked a bit disappointed that I was trying a new slaw recipe, because he’s such a fan of my Creamy Cole Slaw.
He’s a good sport, though, so he went back to tending the 3-hour process of slow-grilling the pork. Meanwhile, for a shortcut, I used a bag of pre-shredded cabbage. The food processor made quick work of chopping the cabbage into small bits. Otherwise, a head of cabbage, works just as well.
The dressing is very simple to make. Cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, ketchup and 1 teaspoon salt is added into vinegar mixture until combined. Done!
Cabbage releases a lot of water, resulting in a soggy or runny salad. A quick method to solve this problem is to toss cabbage, sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt in large bowl. Cover the bowl and microwave until the cabbage is just beginning to wilt. Transfer cabbage mixture to colander set over bowl. Let cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Press the cabbage to release excess moisture; discard liquid (it should measure about 1/3 cup). Toss the cabbage and dressing in clean large bowl until combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 2 days. Serve.
TASTING NOTES: I really liked this slaw! I cut the amount of red pepper flakes in half, because I have to be careful not to eat really spicy food. The flavor had a mixture of sweet and sour, with a subtle hint of heat. Best of all, I appreciated how easy this slaw is to make. This salad is a lot less calorie-ridden than a more traditional cole slaw with a mayonnaise dressing. This is a good thing. How did my husband like this? He did, though I suspect he still prefers the Creamy Cole Slaw. Our dinner guests LOVED this slaw, and they both asked for the recipe.
Carolina Red Slaw
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 head green cabbage cored
- 1/4 cup sugar
Instructions
- Microwave vinegar and pepper flakes until mixture is bubbling around edges, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Whisk ketchup and 1 teaspoon salt into vinegar mixture until combined.
- Cut cabbage into 2-inch-thick wedges and shred in food processor fitted with shredding disk. Toss cabbage, sugar, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in large bowl. Cover bowl and microwave until cabbage is just beginning to wilt, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Transfer cabbage mixture to colander set over bowl. Let cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Press cabbage to release excess moisture; discard liquid (it should measure about 1/3 cup). Toss cabbage and dressing in clean large bowl until combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 2 days. Serve.
Notes
Enjoy your week off Debby. With your crazy work schedule a week of relaxation is in order. Get that camera out too and enjoy:D
I hope you enjoy your holiday. Sleep late, breathe deeply and enjoy life at a slower pace. Blessings…MAry
I'm so intrigued by this slaw! I hate mayo and my family adores it, so that's what they always put on theirs. I should try to introduce this at the next bbq! Have fun on your trip Debby! I hope it's super relaxing!
My husband would love that slaw! I am so in love with that magazine, in fact of all the cooking mags I get it is my favorite!
It's my day for a blog hop, I'd love it if you came over and shared one of your great recipes at savory sunday!! Have a great day 🙂
Can you believe I've never had red slaw?! I like how the texture looks smooth. Definitely sounds like a great summer food to try. Again, enjoy your time with the hubby and get some relaxing in!
This is a must make. I love that it doesn't use mayo. It makes it perfect for barbecues. Enjoy your trip!
Kristi
Deb,
Enjoy your vacation!!
Really liked this slaw….I added a sprinkle of Cumin and 2 table spoons of red jalapeno Jelly to the warmed vinegar mix before i added the ketchup..Really liked it!!!
Keep blogging away, it is a great outlet and at the very least will help you capture your food memories .
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