Coleslaw

What is Coleslaw?

Coleslaw is a salad where the main ingredient is raw cabbage, sliced thin or shredded. It is mixed with a dressing, which may be creamy (like mayonnaise or sour cream) or tangy (such as vinaigrette made from vinegar and oil). Carrot is a common addition, and sometimes onion, apple, or even cheese or pineapple are included. The texture is usually crisp, and the flavor depends on the dressing: it can be creamy, sharp, or mildly sweet. The salad is often served cold as a side dish.

Where does Coleslaw come from?

The name 'coleslaw' comes from the Dutch word 'koolsla', meaning 'cabbage salad'. Recipes for cabbage salads appeared in Dutch cookbooks as early as the 17th century, but the modern version became popular after mayonnaise was developed in the mid-18th century. The dish spread from the Netherlands to other countries, with each region adapting it to local tastes and ingredients.

How is Coleslaw made?

To make coleslaw, raw cabbage is cut into thin strips or small pieces. Other vegetables like carrot or onion may be added. The mixture is tossed with a dressing, which can be mayonnaise-based, a simple vinaigrette of vinegar and oil, or sometimes cream or buttermilk. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and sometimes sugar or herbs are included. The salad can be eaten right away or left to marinate, especially if using a vinegar dressing.

How and when is Coleslaw eaten?

Coleslaw is usually served as a side dish with lunch or dinner. In the United States, it often accompanies fried fish, barbecue, or sandwiches. In Canada, it is a common topping for hot dogs, especially in Montreal. Across Europe, versions of coleslaw are served with meat and potatoes, or as a salad with pizza in Sweden. It is eaten cold and is popular for its fresh, crisp texture.

Kinds of Coleslaw

Many countries have their own versions of coleslaw. In the southern United States, buttermilk is sometimes used. In North Carolina, a red slaw made with ketchup and vinegar is served with barbecue. In Poland, cabbage salads called surówka use oil and vinegar instead of mayonnaise. Sweden has pizzasallad, a cabbage salad with vinaigrette. Broccoli slaw replaces cabbage with shredded broccoli. Additions like apple, pineapple, cheese, or nuts are found in some recipes.

What Coleslaw means

Coleslaw is a familiar part of meals in many countries, especially as a side for hearty or fried foods. In the United States, it is closely linked to barbecue and southern cooking. In Canada, it is a staple in fast food. The dish reflects local tastes, with each region using its own ingredients and dressings. In Tennessee, a spicy hot slaw was named the first official state food in 2024.

Questions people ask about Coleslaw

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Coleslaw on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data