The History of Coleslaw - Chad's BBQ (2024)

Paired often with slow-cooked barbecue, grilled chicken, or pork, coleslaw is one of the most popular side dishes around. But, have you ever wondered where coleslaw came from? And, how did it become the side dish that it is today? We’re here to tell you the story of how this dish came to be. Read below to discover the unique history of coleslaw.

The Origin of Coleslaw

The History of Coleslaw - Chad's BBQ (1)

Like much of American cuisine, the coleslaw is inspired by dishes from all over the world. The roots of coleslaw recipes make their way back to ancient Rome. Roman citizens would often eat a meal featuring cabbage, eggs, vinegar, and other spices.

On the other side of the globe, the Dutch founders of New York served a shredded cabbage salad. This is similar to today’s ‘slaw. The dish was initially created in the Netherlands. In fact, the term coleslaw originates from the Dutch expression koosla, which means “cabbage salad.” Recipes similar to coleslaw have been found and used in American homes from as early as 1770. However, one of the most pivotal moments in the history of coleslaw was the creation of mayonnaise in the 18th century.

Coleslaw’s Evolution in America

Although the main ingredients are still mostly there, coleslaws across America have integrated new flavors and varieties. Inspired by ingredients from around the world, coleslaws today may include odd combinations. For example, curry, jicama, sweet onion, sesame oil, bok choy, and even granny smith apples.

Some even argue that coleslaw can be made without cabbage. Other shredded vegetables have been known to take the place of shredded cabbage. These recipes call for root vegetables, fennel, beets, or carrots instead. However, these variations are not common, and most recipes you find online today still include some type of cabbage.

Although many international coleslaws are made without mayonnaise, the signature American recipe would not be complete without it. Especially when served with barbecue, mayonnaise-based dressings are a worthy complement to the smoky tang of BBQ’d meats. It’s no wonder coleslaw has turned into a traditional side dish for a barbecue.

Try Chad’s Coleslaw

The chefs at Chad’s BBQ have created a recipe so good, it’s sure to make the history books. So, the next time you’re in Edgewater, be sure to stop by for a quick bite to eat. Since 2013, we have been committed to making simple good great. Check out the recipe section of our blog. It’s a great place to be inspired to make your own homecooked meals. However, if you are just in the mood for some great BBQ, just give us a call.

On January 14, 2019 / BBQ and Beer, Recipes
The History of Coleslaw - Chad's BBQ (2024)

FAQs

The History of Coleslaw - Chad's BBQ? ›

The roots of coleslaw recipes make their way back to ancient Rome. Roman citizens would often eat a meal featuring cabbage, eggs, vinegar, and other spices. On the other side of the globe, the Dutch founders of New York served a shredded cabbage salad. This is similar to today's 'slaw.

What is the origin of Cole slaw? ›

Coleslaw (from the Dutch term koolsla meaning 'cabbage salad'), also known as cole slaw or simply as slaw, is a side dish consisting primarily of finely shredded raw cabbage with a salad dressing or condiment, commonly either vinaigrette or mayonnaise. This dish originated in the Netherlands in the 18th century.

Who discovered coleslaw? ›

Its origins can be traced back as far as the ancient Romans, who served a dish of cabbage, vinegar, eggs and spices. The Dutch who founded New York state grew cabbage around the Hudson River that they used in a shredded cabbage salad they called koosla (kool means cabbage and sla is salad).

Who is the inventor of Cole slaw? ›

Roman origins

Coleslaw's ancestor is a Roman dish of cabbage, vinegar, eggs, and spices. It is attributed to Marcus Gavius Apicius in his cookbook. Apicius was a gourmand who lived during the first century C.E. A similar cabbage salad has made its way around the Internet thanks to the book, Roman Cookery by Mark Grant.

Is coleslaw a southern thing? ›

In South Carolina, you'll find various coleslaw styles, but the most prevalent is mayonnaise-based, aka Southern-style. The first coleslaw recipes, however, contained zero mayo and for good reason—the condiment hadn't been invented yet. Food historians trace the origins of coleslaw all the way back to ancient Rome.

Where is Cole originated from? ›

The name Cole derives from the British name Nicholas and is typically associated with the English name Cola, meaning “charcoal.” Armed with the definitions of charcoal—a natural cleanser—and victory, baby Cole will be fresh and thriving wherever they go.

Who is the founder of slaw? ›

Ali Yazdi - Founder - SLAW | LinkedIn.

Why is coleslaw now called slaw? ›

Whatever the reason for the formation, people familiar with the food item began tinkering with its name. For instance, the Latin-based cole was substituted for cold and the spelling variant slaugh was used with cold or cole. The name was also chopped to slaw or slaugh.

Why is coleslaw called John 14? ›

So familiar and faithful are we to this culinary combo that coleslaw is often referred to as John 14 – because, like the 14th chapter of the Gospel according to John, the cabbage salad is always present at important ceremonies. But just because we give food biblical names doesn't make it good for us.

What is traditional coleslaw made of? ›

What is traditional coleslaw made of? Traditional coleslaw is little more than shredded cabbage and a creamy dressing. This recipe adds a bit more flavor with shredded carrots and onion. The creamy dressing is made with mayonnaise, sugar, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper, for a just right tangy-sweet flavor.

Is coleslaw healthy? ›

And keep in mind that this high-fat side is also typically served alongside already high-calorie foods like fried chicken or seafood. Yes. Coleslaw can absolutely be part of a healthy eating plan as long as you choose your dressing carefully.

What does "slaw" mean? ›

Slaw comes from the Dutch sla, short for salade, or "salad." Definitions of slaw. basically shredded cabbage. synonyms: coleslaw. type of: salad.

What's the difference between a salad and a coleslaw? ›

A salad can contain various things. You know things like lettuce, carrots, celery, cucumbers and usually a dressing such as thousand island or ranch. Coleslaw can actually contain the carrots, celery, and even cucumbers but instead of lettuce it contains cabbage, and no lettuce.

Why did KFC stop selling coleslaw? ›

The fast food chain was forced to stop selling its coleslaw tubs when a supply issue meant the slaw would have to be served up without the dressing. “We are currently experiencing a supply issue with our KFC coleslaw dressing,” a KFC spokesperson said. The slaw is made up of cabbage and carrots coated in mayonnaise.

What is a coleslaw slang? ›

In a bizarre new trend sweeping online forums and apps, cheaters have taken to calling their affair partners 'coleslaw' because they are a 'side dish'. While most people are familiar with the terms 'ghosting' and 'love bombing', the little-known new term has left many in the dark.

What race invented coleslaw? ›

The roots of coleslaw recipes make their way back to ancient Rome. Roman citizens would often eat a meal featuring cabbage, eggs, vinegar, and other spices. On the other side of the globe, the Dutch founders of New York served a shredded cabbage salad. This is similar to today's 'slaw.

What is the difference between slaw and coleslaw? ›

The real difference is that the raw, chopped vegetables in coleslaw are primarily cabbage: Napa, red, savoy, or bok choy. Slaw without the cole can feature any crunchy veggie in place of cabbage, including chopped or shredded broccoli, carrots, snow peas, jicama, and more.

Does Cole mean cabbage farmer? ›

Known colloquially as "cole crops," the word "cole" comes from the Latin "caulis" meaning "stem" and the German word "kohl" for cabbage.

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