Seattle Teriyaki Restaurant Coleslaw is a deliciously tangy and creamy side dish that’s perfect for complementing your favorite teriyaki chicken or any grilled meats. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional coleslaw with a blend of creamy mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and adds a refreshing crunch to any meal. Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare this delectable coleslaw.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon water
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Coleslaw:
- 4 to 5 cups thinly sliced cabbage (about 1/2 head of cabbage)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing:
1.1 Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
1.2 Mix Well: Ensure that all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. The sugar should be completely dissolved to avoid any graininess in the dressing.
1.3 Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. For extra tang, a splash more vinegar can be added.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
2.1 Slice the Cabbage: Thinly slice the cabbage into fine shreds. This can be done using a sharp knife, a mandoline, or a food processor. Aim for uniform slices to ensure an even distribution of the dressing.
2.2 Measure the Cabbage: After slicing, you should have about 4 to 5 cups of cabbage. This will serve as the base for your coleslaw.
2.3 Optional Step – Salt the Cabbage: If you want to reduce the water content in the cabbage and enhance its crunchiness, sprinkle a bit of salt over the shredded cabbage and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Afterward, rinse the cabbage and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
3.1 Mix Cabbage and Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cabbage. Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage.
3.2 Toss Well: Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the cabbage and dressing together until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure that every shred of cabbage is covered.
4. Chill and Serve:
4.1 Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling the coleslaw allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
4.2 Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the coleslaw. This adds a nice touch of flavor and crunch.
4.3 Serve: Serve the coleslaw as a side dish with your favorite teriyaki dishes, grilled meats, or as a refreshing standalone salad.
Tips for Success
Cabbage Preparation:
- Uniform Slicing: For the best texture, ensure the cabbage is sliced as uniformly as possible. This will help the dressing coat the cabbage evenly.
- Freshness: Use fresh cabbage for a crisper texture. If using pre-shredded cabbage, ensure it is not too coarse or chunky.
Dressing Consistency:
- Thicker Dressing: If you prefer a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of water. You can also add a bit more mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency.
- Lighter Dressing: For a lighter dressing, increase the water slightly or use low-fat mayonnaise.
Flavor Adjustments:
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of ginger to the dressing.
- Additional Flavors: Adding finely chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint can enhance the flavor of the coleslaw.
Make-Ahead and Storage:
- Prepare in Advance: This coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
- Storage: Keep the coleslaw in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Avoid storing it for too long as the cabbage may become overly soft.
Seattle Teriyaki Restaurant Coleslaw is a versatile and delicious side dish that brings a unique flavor to your table. With its creamy dressing and crunchy cabbage, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, especially teriyaki chicken or grilled meats. This recipe is not only simple to make but also a great way to add a refreshing and tangy touch to your meals. Enjoy this vibrant coleslaw at your next gathering or meal for a delightful twist on a classic favorite!
