Gordon Ramsay Coleslaw: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide

Gordon Ramsay Coleslaw: Prepare to experience coleslaw like never before! Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic side dish because we’re about to elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness, inspired by the culinary genius of Gordon Ramsay himself. This isn’t your average, mayonnaise-drenched, bland coleslaw; this is a vibrant, flavorful, and texturally exciting masterpiece that will have everyone begging for the recipe.

Coleslaw, a staple at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, has a surprisingly rich history. Its roots can be traced back to the Dutch term “koolsla,” meaning “cabbage salad.” Over time, various cultures have put their own spin on it, adding different vegetables, dressings, and spices. But what makes Gordon Ramsay Coleslaw so special? It’s the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, sweet and savory, with a satisfying crunch that will tantalize your taste buds.

People adore coleslaw for its refreshing taste and versatility. It’s the ideal accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, and even fish tacos. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to side dish for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. But this version? This is next-level. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a coleslaw that’s anything but ordinary!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 small white cabbage, finely shredded
• 1/4 small red cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best flavor)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Vegetables:

Okay, let’s get started with the foundation of our amazing coleslaw – the veggies! This is where the texture and vibrant colors really come to life. Don’t rush this step; the finer you chop and shred, the better the coleslaw will be.

1. Shred the Cabbage: Take your half head of white cabbage and quarter head of red cabbage. Remove any tough outer leaves. Now, using a sharp knife or a mandoline (be careful!), finely shred both cabbages. The goal is to get thin, even strands. If you’re using a knife, cut the cabbage into thin slices, then stack the slices and cut them into thin strips. Place the shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl.
2. Grate the Carrots: Peel your two medium carrots. Using a box grater, grate them on the coarse side. This will give you nice, visible strands of carrot that add a touch of sweetness and color. Add the grated carrots to the mixing bowl with the cabbage.
3. Chop the Celery: Wash and dry your two celery stalks. Trim off the ends. Now, finely chop the celery. You want small, even pieces that will add a subtle crunch and fresh flavor. Add the chopped celery to the mixing bowl.
4. Chop the Herbs: Rinse and thoroughly dry your fresh parsley and chives. Finely chop both herbs. These will add a burst of freshness and herbaceousness to the coleslaw. Add them to the mixing bowl with the other vegetables.

Making the Dressing:

Now for the magic ingredient – the dressing! This is what brings everything together and gives the coleslaw its signature tangy, creamy flavor. Don’t be tempted to skimp on the quality of the mayonnaise; it really makes a difference. I always use full-fat mayonnaise for the best results.

1. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
2. Add the Sweetener and Seasoning: Add the granulated sugar and celery seeds to the bowl with the wet ingredients.
3. Whisk it All Together: Using a whisk, thoroughly combine all the ingredients until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps of mayonnaise.
4. Taste and Adjust: Now, taste the dressing. This is crucial! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You might also want to add a little more lemon juice for extra tanginess, or a touch more sugar if you prefer a sweeter coleslaw. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Assembling the Coleslaw:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to bring the vegetables and the dressing together to create our delicious coleslaw. The key here is to make sure the dressing is evenly distributed and that the coleslaw has time to chill and allow the flavors to meld.

1. Pour the Dressing Over the Vegetables: Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage, carrots, celery, and herbs in the large mixing bowl.
2. Toss to Combine: Using two large spoons or spatulas, gently toss the vegetables and dressing together until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the coleslaw watery. You want the vegetables to be coated, but still retain their texture.
3. Season Again (If Needed): Give the coleslaw a taste. You might need to add a little more salt and pepper at this stage, depending on your preference.
4. Chill for at Least 30 Minutes: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly. The longer it chills, the better it will taste!
5. Give it a Final Toss: Before serving, give the coleslaw one last gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.

Tips and Variations:

Want to take your coleslaw to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Add Some Crunch: For extra crunch, try adding some toasted slivered almonds, sunflower seeds, or chopped walnuts.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Make it Creamier: For an even creamier coleslaw, add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
• Add Fruit: For a sweeter coleslaw, try adding some chopped apple, pineapple, or dried cranberries.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, cilantro, or mint.
• Vinegar Variety: Try using apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar instead of white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Make it Ahead: Coleslaw is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of foods. It’s perfect with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, fish, and even tacos!

Troubleshooting:

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common coleslaw problems and how to fix them:

• Coleslaw is Too Watery: This can happen if the vegetables release too much moisture. To prevent this, make sure to thoroughly dry the vegetables after washing them. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dressing to help absorb excess moisture.
• Coleslaw is Too Dry: If the coleslaw is too dry, simply add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of milk or cream to the dressing.
• Coleslaw is Too Sweet: If the coleslaw is too sweet, add a little more lemon juice or vinegar to the dressing.
• Coleslaw is Too Tangy: If the coleslaw is too tangy, add a little more sugar or mayonnaise to the dressing.

Storage:

Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the coleslaw will become softer and more watery over time, so it’s best to eat it as soon as possible.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just any coleslaw; it’s Gordon Ramsay Coleslaw, and trust me, once you’ve tasted it, you’ll understand why it’s a must-try. The vibrant flavors, the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, and the satisfying crunch all come together to create a coleslaw experience unlike any other. It’s the kind of side dish that elevates any meal, turning a simple barbecue into a gourmet affair. I’ve made countless batches of coleslaw in my time, and this recipe consistently receives rave reviews. It’s a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and a well-thought-out flavor profile.

But the real magic of this recipe lies in its versatility. While it’s absolutely divine served alongside grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or pulled pork, don’t limit yourself! Imagine it piled high on a crispy fish taco, adding a cool and refreshing counterpoint to the spicy flavors. Or, try it as a vibrant topping for a juicy burger, replacing traditional lettuce and adding a burst of flavor and texture. For a vegetarian option, it’s fantastic served with black bean burgers or alongside grilled halloumi.

Looking for variations? Feel free to experiment with different types of cabbage. Red cabbage adds a beautiful color and a slightly different flavor profile. You could also add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing. If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, increase the amount of sugar or add a drizzle of honey. The possibilities are truly endless!

And speaking of the dressing, that’s where the real secret lies. Don’t be tempted to skimp on the quality of your mayonnaise. A good quality mayonnaise will make all the difference in the final flavor. Also, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Some people prefer a tangier coleslaw, while others prefer a sweeter one. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s completely customizable to your own personal preferences.

I truly believe that everyone should have a go-to coleslaw recipe, and this Gordon Ramsay Coleslaw is mine. It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect side dish for potlucks, barbecues, picnics, or even just a simple weeknight dinner. It’s a guaranteed hit, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience coleslaw like never before. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how delicious coleslaw can be.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments below. Let’s create a community of coleslaw enthusiasts and spread the love for this incredible side dish! Happy cooking!