Core Ingredients of a Classic Cheese Coleslaw
A classic creamy coleslaw recipe serves as the foundation for cheese coleslaw, with the addition of one key ingredient: cheese. The core components are remarkably simple, creating a versatile and flavorful side dish that can be served cold, as a sandwich filling, or alongside barbecue.
The Shredded Vegetables
- Cabbage: The crunchy base of any coleslaw. While some versions of cheese slaw, particularly in Australia, may omit it, most recipes in the United States include finely shredded white or green cabbage.
- Carrot: Grated carrot adds a touch of sweetness, vibrant color, and extra crunch. It is a staple ingredient in almost all versions of cheese coleslaw.
- Onion or Chives: Finely minced onion, spring onion, or chopped chives provide a sharp, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the dressing and cheese.
The Creamy Dressing
- Mayonnaise: A rich, full-bodied mayonnaise is the most traditional base for the dressing. It provides the creamy texture that binds all the ingredients together.
- Other Dairy: Ingredients like buttermilk, sour cream, or Greek yogurt can be used in place of or in combination with mayonnaise to alter the consistency and tanginess of the dressing.
- Vinegar and Sweetener: A splash of cider vinegar or white wine vinegar adds a necessary tang, while a small amount of sugar balances the acidity and creamy flavors.
The Cheese
- Cheddar: Mature or mild cheddar cheese is the most common and classic choice for cheese coleslaw. Its sharp, savory flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing and crisp vegetables.
- Other Cheeses: As seen in variations, other cheeses like Swiss, blue cheese, or pepper jack can be used to dramatically change the flavor profile of the dish.
Popular Cheese Coleslaw Variations
While the classic recipe is a favorite, there are many ways to experiment with cheese coleslaw. By swapping cheeses, mixing vegetables, or adding extra ingredients, you can create a personalized dish for any occasion.
Blue Cheese Coleslaw
This variation replaces the mild cheddar with pungent blue cheese. Often, a buttermilk or Greek yogurt-based dressing is used to complement the strong cheese flavor. Crumbled bacon and walnuts are sometimes added to provide extra texture and richness.
Mexican-Style Cheese Coleslaw
For a spicier, more vibrant version, pepper jack cheese and jalapeño are mixed into the standard coleslaw vegetables. A zesty lime vinaigrette is often used instead of a creamy mayonnaise dressing to enhance the Mexican flavor profile. Corn and cilantro are common additions.
Deli-Style Cheese Slaw
In this version, the cheese is finely grated or cubed, with the emphasis often placed on the quality of the ingredients rather than a complex flavor profile. It's a simple, straightforward take on the dish that is perfect for sandwiches, like a classic hot dog topping.
Homemade Cheese Coleslaw: A Step-by-Step Recipe
This simple recipe for a creamy cheddar cheese coleslaw is easy to follow and produces a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 head green or white cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1/4 red onion, finely minced (or 2 tbsp chives)
- 1 cup mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup good-quality mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and minced onion. Toss to combine.
- Make the dressing: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Add the cheese: Gently fold the grated cheddar cheese into the coleslaw. Don't overmix, as this can cause the cheese to clump.
- Chill and serve: For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the flavors to meld. Serve cold.
Comparing Coleslaw Variations
| Feature | Classic Coleslaw | Cheese Coleslaw (Cheddar) | Blue Cheese Coleslaw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredients | Cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise | Cabbage, carrots, cheddar, mayonnaise | Cabbage, carrots, blue cheese, buttermilk/yogurt |
| Flavor Profile | Tangy, creamy, slightly sweet | Rich, savory, creamy | Pungent, tangy, sharp |
| Best Served With | Pulled pork, barbecue, fish | Burgers, grilled chicken, hot dogs | Steak, grilled beef, salads |
| Texture | Crunchy, creamy | Creamy with soft cheese strands | Crunchy with pockets of tangy, soft cheese |
| Key Flavor Notes | Vinegar, sweetness | Savory cheese, creamy base | Sharp blue cheese, zesty tang |
Conclusion: A Cheesy Twist on a Classic
Ultimately, what's in cheese coleslaw is a delightful combination of classic coleslaw components with the added richness of cheese. The shredded vegetables provide a fresh, crunchy base, the creamy dressing ties everything together, and the cheese elevates the dish with a savory, sometimes pungent, flavor. Whether you stick with a classic cheddar or explore more adventurous variations like blue cheese or Mexican-style slaw, this side dish offers a simple yet satisfying culinary experience. Its versatility makes it a perfect complement to a wide range of main courses, from barbecue to sandwiches, proving that adding cheese is almost always a good idea. For a guide to healthier dressing options, you can explore resources like BBC Good Food's overview of coleslaw nutrition.
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Check out BBC Good Food for more healthy coleslaw dressing ideas.
