I remember the first time I tried making winter coleslaw, and it completely changed my view on coleslaw in general. Up until then, I thought of coleslaw as that creamy, overly rich side dish you get at BBQs. But then I stumbled across Jamie Oliver’s winter coleslaw recipe. It was fresh, crisp, and so vibrant-almost like a celebration of winter veggies. It’s now a go-to dish in my house whenever the cold weather hits, and it’s the perfect way to balance those heavy winter meals with something light and crunchy.
Jamie’s twist on traditional coleslaw uses seasonal ingredients, making it a great option when you’re looking for something unique but still comforting. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.
Jamie Oliver’s Winter Coleslaw Recipe
Jamie’s winter coleslaw is a game-changer. It’s not your standard cabbage-heavy slaw. Instead, it’s a combination of root vegetables, apples, and tangy dressing that gives you a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The recipe is simple but thoughtful, focusing on bringing out the best of what the colder months have to offer.
The best part? It’s versatile enough to pair with almost anything-roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even just on its own as a light lunch.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this colorful dish:
- 1 small red cabbage: The crunch and color are key to this slaw. Red cabbage also adds a slight peppery bite.
- 1 small white cabbage: This adds a more neutral base and balances the sharpness of the red cabbage.
- 2 medium carrots: Grated finely. The sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing.
- 2 small apples: Try using something tart, like a Granny Smith. It adds a juicy sweetness that works wonders here.
- 1/2 small red onion: Thinly sliced. It gives the coleslaw a little kick without overpowering.
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley: Chopped. Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon of caraway seeds: Optional, but it gives a subtle earthy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar: To bring in some tang.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For a smooth and rich dressing.
- 1 tablespoon of honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar and gives a hint of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Winter Coleslaw
The best part about Jamie’s winter coleslaw is how easy it is to make. If you have a food processor, you can whip this up in no time. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Prep the veggies: Start by finely shredding the red cabbage and white cabbage. Grate the carrots, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the apples into small matchsticks or julienne pieces.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. The honey and vinegar create a nice balance between sweet and tangy.
- Combine everything: Toss all the shredded vegetables and apple together in a large bowl. Add the chopped parsley and caraway seeds if you’re using them. Pour the dressing over the slaw and mix well until everything is coated evenly.
- Let it rest: For best results, let the coleslaw sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the slaw even better.
- Serve: You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge. Either way, it will be a hit.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s break down the science behind some of the ingredients:
- Cabbage: Cabbage is packed with fiber and vitamin C. Its crunchiness comes from the cellulose in its cell walls, which helps it retain that satisfying bite even after sitting in a dressing. The antioxidant properties of cabbage are also great for boosting your immune system during the winter months.
- Carrots: These sweet, crunchy root vegetables are full of beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and eyes, which is particularly useful when you’re battling the dry winter air.
- Apples: The apples bring both texture and a hit of natural sweetness. They’re a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, which can help combat those winter colds. The natural sugars in the apples also help balance the acidity from the vinegar.
- Honey: Honey is more than just a sweetener; it has antibacterial properties and is packed with antioxidants. It also helps to bind the ingredients in the dressing together, adding a smoothness that complements the other components.
Expert Tips
- Use a mandolin: If you have one, a mandolin slicer is perfect for getting those ultra-thin slices of cabbage and carrots. It helps to create a more even texture in the slaw.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the coleslaw a few hours in advance. The longer it sits, the better the flavors develop. But don’t leave it overnight, as the veggies may start to lose their crispness.
- Go light on the dressing: Start with a little dressing and add more as needed. You don’t want the slaw to be drenched. It should just lightly coat the veggies, allowing their natural flavors to shine.
- Season to taste: Adjust the vinegar, honey, and salt to suit your personal preferences. If you like it tangier, add more vinegar. For a sweeter slaw, a touch more honey will do the trick.
Recipe Variations
Jamie’s recipe is pretty perfect as is, but here are a few variations you can try:
- Add some nuts: A handful of roasted nuts like walnuts or almonds can add an extra layer of crunch and richness to the slaw.
- Swap the apples for pears: If you’re craving a slightly different flavor, pears add a nice soft sweetness that pairs well with the cabbage.
- Add citrus: A squeeze of lemon or orange zest can add a fresh, zesty punch that enhances the flavors of the coleslaw.
- Make it spicy: Add a finely chopped chili pepper to the dressing if you want some heat. This gives the coleslaw a bold twist.
Final Words
This winter coleslaw has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that looks impressive but doesn’t require hours of prep. The fresh flavors are a perfect contrast to the heavier meals you might have in the winter. Plus, it’s easy to tweak depending on what’s in season or what you’re in the mood for.
It’s a great side dish for everything from roast chicken to a vegan grain bowl. Or, you could even enjoy it on its own as a light lunch.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Winter Coleslaw?
You’ll need cabbage, carrots, red onion, apples, and a tangy dressing with mustard, lemon, and yogurt.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Winter Coleslaw Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep it a day ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
How Can I Customize Jamie Oliver’s Winter Coleslaw Recipe?
Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or swap yogurt for mayonnaise for a creamier texture.