Kittencal's Famous Coleslaw

Kittencal's Famous Coleslaw: A Family Favorite

As a busy mom, time is always of the essence. I need recipes that are both delicious and easy to make, especially when entertaining. This coleslaw is my go-to recipe for any gathering, big or small. It's consistently a crowd-pleaser, and the best part? It's incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort but yielding maximum flavour.

The secret to this coleslaw lies in the fresh ingredients and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. I always use fresh lemon juice; nothing compares to the bright, zesty taste it adds. The creamy mayonnaise base is lightened with milk and buttermilk, creating a texture that's both smooth and refreshing, never heavy or cloying. I’ve experimented with different types of mayonnaise over the years, and I have to say, Hellmann’s remains my absolute favourite.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, too. Shredded red cabbage adds a beautiful pop of color and a slightly more intense flavor. I sometimes add finely diced bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch.

The best part about this recipe, besides its deliciousness, is that it gets better with time! The flavors truly meld together and deepen during the chilling period. I recommend making it at least 8 hours in advance to allow for the flavors to fully develop. Overnight is even better. Believe me, the wait is worth it! This coleslaw is also a great make-ahead dish for picnics or potlucks.

I often double or even triple this recipe for larger gatherings. It’s always a hit at our family reunions, BBQs, and holiday celebrations. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors are a welcome contrast to heavier dishes, and its simplicity allows me to spend more time with my family and guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Beyond its convenience and delicious taste, this recipe has become a cherished family tradition. It's a dish that brings back happy memories of summer get-togethers, laughter, and good company. And that, more than anything, is what makes it so special. It’s a simple dish that speaks volumes about the joy of sharing food with loved ones and the pleasure of creating memories around a shared meal. There is a lot of satisfaction in knowing that I have created something delicious and meaningful. The time spent in the kitchen, chopping and mixing, is a relaxing meditative activity for me.

So, if you’re looking for a simple yet elegant coleslaw recipe that’s sure to impress, look no further. This recipe is a true testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients combined with a little bit of love. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you!

Pro-Tip: For an even crispier coleslaw, try lightly salting the shredded cabbage and letting it sit for about 15-20 minutes before adding the dressing. This will help to draw out excess moisture, leaving you with a deliciously crunchy coleslaw.

Step-by-step

• In a food processor, chop the cabbage into small pieces (should look like about the size of confetti) or shred the cabbage.
• Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
• With a fine shredder, shred the peeled carrots; add to the cabbage in the bowl.
• Chop the green onion finely; add to the cabbage/carrot mixture along with the celery seed.
• Mix the three veggies all together with a wooden spoon.
• To make the dressing, in a medium glass bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients, starting with the lower amounts, then adding in and adjusting to suit taste but using 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar.
• Pour over the veggies in the bowl and mix well to combine.
• Store covered in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight (overnight is better) to blend flavors.
• FOR ONE 16-OUNCE PACKAGE COLESLAW MIX use the following amounts: 1/2 cup mayonnaise/ 2-1/2 tablespoons milk/ 2-1/2 tablespoons buttermilk/ 1-1/2 tablespoons vinegar/ 1-1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice/ 3-1/2 tablespoons sugar/ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder/ 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt or to taste.