Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw is a delicious and creamy side dish, ideal for accompanying a wide range of meals. It’s inspired by the famous British cooking duo, The Hairy Bikers, who are known for their straightforward and comforting recipes.

Their coleslaw version features a perfect balance of crunchy vegetables mixed with a creamy dressing, offering a refreshing and satisfying taste. What makes this particular recipe stand out is the addition of extra ingredients and techniques that elevate it beyond a typical coleslaw. The use of tangy vinegar, mustard, and sometimes fresh herbs adds depth and complexity to the dish, while still retaining the signature crisp texture and flavor we expect from a classic coleslaw.

Coleslaw is often associated with summer BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings, but Hairy Bikers’ version can be enjoyed year-round, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish to fried chicken, grilled meats, or even vegetarian options, it complements the richness of many dishes while providing a crunchy contrast. It can also be served as a topping for sandwiches and burgers, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Cabbage (White or Red) – A combination of both types can provide a visually appealing dish, though white cabbage is more traditional.
2. Carrots – Fresh and finely grated carrots add a vibrant color and natural sweetness to the coleslaw.
3. Spring Onions – These give a subtle onion flavor without being overpowering, perfect for adding a mild sharpness.
4. Mayonnaise – The base of the dressing, providing a creamy texture and richness to the coleslaw.
5. Natural Yogurt – Often added to balance out the creaminess of mayonnaise with a slight tang.
6. White Wine Vinegar – This adds acidity and helps cut through the richness of the mayo, giving the coleslaw a refreshing finish.
7. Mustard (Dijon or English) – A small amount of mustard adds a touch of heat and depth to the dressing.
8. Sugar – Just a pinch, used to balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhance the sweetness of the carrots.
9. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste, making sure the coleslaw is well-seasoned.

10. Optional Extras

    • Parsley or Chives: Fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
    • Lemon Juice: For extra zest and freshness if desired.
    • Celery: Finely diced for an additional crunch and flavor variation.

Equipment Needed

Before starting, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools to prepare Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw:

1. Grater or Food Processor – For finely grating the carrots and cabbage. A food processor will save you time if you’re making large quantities.
2. Large Mixing Bowl – To combine all your ingredients and toss the coleslaw together.
3. Small Bowl – For mixing the dressing ingredients (mayonnaise, yogurt, vinegar, mustard, etc.).
4. Whisk – To thoroughly blend the dressing ingredients together until smooth.
5. Sharp Knife – If you are slicing cabbage or any other vegetables by hand, a sharp knife will make the job easier.
6. Chopping Board – A stable surface for chopping and grating your vegetables.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, follow this easy step-by-step guide to create the perfect coleslaw:

1. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Start by finely shredding the cabbage (either by hand or using a food processor). Aim for thin, bite-sized pieces that are easy to chew.
   • Grate the carrots using a coarse grater or a food processor for an even texture.
   • Slice the spring onions into thin rings, ensuring you discard any tough or dark green stems.

2. Mix The Vegetables

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced spring onions. Use your hands or a spoon to toss them together evenly.

3. Prepare The Dressing

   • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and natural yogurt to create a creamy base.
   • Add a tablespoon of white wine vinegar to the mixture, followed by a small amount of mustard (Dijon or English, depending on your preference). Stir well.
   • Season with sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. You can adjust these according to your preference, adding more vinegar for acidity or sugar for sweetness.

4. Combine Dressing And Vegetables

   • Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the mixing bowl. Use a spoon to toss everything together gently, ensuring the vegetables are fully coated in the creamy dressing.

5. Taste And Adjust

   • Taste the coleslaw and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add extra salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste.

6. Chill And Serve

   • Once mixed, cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or topping.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To truly master the Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw, here are a few tips and tricks:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and carrots will provide the best crunch and flavor. Avoid pre-packaged coleslaw mix, as it often lacks the vibrant flavor and texture you want.
2. Let it Rest: Coleslaw often tastes better after it’s had time to sit in the fridge. The vegetables will soften slightly and the dressing will marinate them, making for a more flavorful dish.
3. Customizing the Flavor: If you want to give your coleslaw an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or chili flakes. For a sweeter variation, you can add a small amount of honey or apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar.
4. Add Crunchy Extras: For added texture and flavor, toss in some roasted nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds, or even some crispy bacon bits.
5. Vary the Dressing: You can make the dressing more decadent by adding a little bit of cream or buttermilk. Alternatively, opt for a lighter coleslaw by using more yogurt and less mayo.

Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw is an incredibly versatile, simple, and delicious side dish that anyone can make at home. Its creamy texture, combined with the freshness of crisp cabbage and sweet carrots, makes it an irresistible addition to a variety of meals.

The recipe is easy to follow, and with a few tweaks, you can customize it to your taste. Whether you serve it with barbecued meats, fried foods, or as a refreshing salad on its own, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. By following these steps and tips, you’ll master the art of making coleslaw, bringing a touch of Hairy Bikers’ magic to your kitchen.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ coleslaw recipe is a timeless classic-a comforting balance of creamy mayonnaise, crunchy cabbage, and a touch of tang from vinegar or mustard. But even classics benefit from a bit of reinvention. Here are a few imaginative, yet easy-to-implement twists that elevate this homely side dish into something unexpected and exciting:

1. 🥭 Tropical Fusion: Add julienned mango or pineapple for a sweet and juicy burst that pairs beautifully with spicy dishes. A dash of lime juice and chopped cilantro transforms it into a Caribbean-style slaw.
2. 🧄 Roasted Garlic & Herb: Infuse the mayo with roasted garlic and mix in finely chopped chives, parsley, and tarragon. This gives the slaw a savory, earthy depth-perfect with grilled meats or rich vegetarian mains.
3. 🥕 Asian-Inspired Crunch: Swap the mayo for a dressing of sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of honey. Toss in shredded carrots, red cabbage, spring onions, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
4. 🌶️ Smoky Chipotle Slaw: Add chipotle in adobo to your standard dressing along with a bit of lime juice. The smoky heat pairs incredibly well with pulled pork or black bean burgers.
5. 🧀 Creamy Blue Cheese & Apple: For a gourmet twist, fold in crumbled blue cheese and thin apple matchsticks. A hint of wholegrain mustard and cider vinegar keeps the balance of sharp and sweet.

Each variation keeps the spirit of the Hairy Bikers’ original recipe while offering new textures and flavor profiles to surprise and delight.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Coleslaw, with its mix of fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, demands thoughtful storage to maintain its texture and safety. Here’s how to do it right:

• 🧊 Chill Immediately: Transfer any leftover coleslaw to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. The faster you chill it, the better it retains its crunch and freshness.
• 📦 Use Airtight Containers: This prevents the slaw from absorbing fridge odors and keeps the vegetables from becoming soggy. Glass containers are ideal as they maintain temperature better and don’t stain.
• 🕰️ Shelf Life: Properly stored, coleslaw should last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. However, its taste and texture are best within the first 48 hours. If the cabbage starts to smell sour or the dressing separates noticeably, it’s time to toss it.
• ❄️ Avoid Freezing: Coleslaw, especially with mayonnaise-based dressing, doesn’t freeze well. The emulsion breaks when thawed, and the veggies lose their snap. If you must freeze, only do so with vinegar-based versions, and expect a texture change.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw?

Coleslaw is more than just a side-it’s a character actor that enhances a range of main dishes. Whether you’re going for hearty, spicy, or light, here are pairings that make coleslaw shine:

1. 🐖 Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The creamy slaw cuts through the richness of slow-cooked pork, offering a refreshing crunch and contrasting temperature.
2. 🍗 Southern Fried Chicken: A zesty slaw offsets the crisp, seasoned coating of fried chicken, making every bite feel lighter and more vibrant.
3. 🐟 Grilled Fish Tacos: Pile slaw high into warm tortillas with flaky white fish, avocado, and a drizzle of hot sauce for the ultimate coastal flavor bomb.
4. 🍔 Veggie or Beef Burgers: Slaw adds juicy texture and a tangy kick that complements meaty patties or hearty bean-based alternatives.
5. 🧆 Falafel or Shawarma Wraps: Use coleslaw as a cooling agent inside wraps loaded with spice-forward Middle Eastern flavors. The result is bold yet balanced.
6. 🥩 BBQ Ribs or Brisket: Rich, smoky meats need a crisp companion. Enter coleslaw-bringing brightness and contrast to a heavy meal.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ coleslaw may begin as a humble side, but with just a few tweaks, it transforms into a dynamic centerpiece on your plate. From tropical notes to smoky spice, this versatile dish adapts effortlessly to your culinary imagination.

Storing it with care ensures you get the most from every crunchy bite, while pairing it thoughtfully can elevate an ordinary meal into a memorable feast. So next time you whip up a batch, think beyond the bowl-this slaw is ready to surprise.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For The Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers’ coleslaw recipe requires a few simple ingredients. You will need a small head of white cabbage, a small head of red cabbage, carrots, a small onion, and fresh parsley.

For the dressing, use mayonnaise, a little bit of Dijon mustard, cider vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. Some versions also include a little sugar or honey to balance the flavors.

How Do I Prepare The Vegetables For The Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw?

To prepare the vegetables for the Hairy Bikers’ coleslaw, first remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbages. Slice both the white and red cabbage into thin strips, either with a sharp knife or using a mandoline for precision.

Grate the carrots, and finely chop the onion. After the vegetables are prepared, combine them in a large mixing bowl. This gives the coleslaw its vibrant and crunchy texture.

Can I Make The Hairy Bikers’ Coleslaw Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can make the Hairy Bikers’ coleslaw ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge can allow the flavors to meld together and develop even more depth.

However, if you prefer a crispier texture, it’s best to serve it within a few hours of preparing. Just make sure to stir it well before serving, as the dressing might settle at the bottom.