Purple Cabbage & Carrot Coleslaw Recipe – Quick Indian-Style Side Dish

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Purple Cabbage & Carrot Coleslaw Recipe – Quick Indian-Style Side Dish

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this super simple, vibrant coleslaw recipe with you. It’s a little different from your typical mayo-laden coleslaw – this one’s bright, fresh, and has a lovely zing that just works with so many Indian dishes. Honestly, I first made this when I was craving something crunchy and light to go with some tacos, and it quickly became a staple side for everything from samosas to thalis!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This purple cabbage and carrot coleslaw is a game-changer for a few reasons. It’s incredibly quick – seriously, 10 minutes is all you need! It’s also wonderfully refreshing, and the flavors are just fantastic. Plus, it’s a healthy way to add some extra veggies to your meal. It’s a little burst of color and flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious coleslaw:

• 1 cup sliced purple cabbage
• 0.5 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 0.5 cup grated carrots
• 0.25 cup minced cilantro
• 0.5 cup lime juice
• Salt to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Freshness is key here. The brighter the veggies, the better the coleslaw.

I highly recommend using Indian cilantro (also known as dhaniya) if you can find it. It has a slightly different flavor profile than the cilantro you might find in Western supermarkets – a little more citrusy and aromatic. It really elevates the whole dish! Don’t worry if you can’t find it though, regular cilantro works beautifully too.

And don’t skimp on the lime juice! Freshly squeezed is always best. It really makes a difference.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s so easy, you’ll be surprised.

1. First, grab a medium-sized bowl. Add in your sliced purple cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, and grated carrots.
2. Next, sprinkle in the minced cilantro. Don’t be shy with it – cilantro adds such a lovely freshness!
3. Now, pour in the lime juice. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
5. Give everything a really good toss. Make sure all the veggies are nicely coated in the lime juice and seasonings.
6. Finally, let the coleslaw rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Expert Tips

Here are a few little things I’ve learned over the years that will help you make the best coleslaw:

• For extra-thinly sliced red onion, you can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the coleslaw. This takes away some of the bite.
• Don’t overmix the coleslaw, or it will become mushy.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: Mild: Add a pinch of red chili powder or a finely chopped green chili for a little heat. My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny bit of Kashmiri chili powder for color and a gentle warmth.
• Additions for a Tangier Coleslaw: A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can add an extra layer of tang.
• Using Different Herbs: While cilantro is my go-to, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw is incredibly versatile! Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Pairing with Indian Tacos: It’s the perfect topping for spicy, flavorful Indian tacos.
• Alongside Samosas: The cool, crisp coleslaw provides a lovely contrast to the warm, savory samosas.
• As a side with Thalis: It’s a great addition to a traditional Indian thali, adding a refreshing element to the meal.
• It’s also fantastic with grilled meats or fish!

Storage Instructions

Leftover coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as it will become softer over time.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• How long will this coleslaw stay fresh? Best enjoyed within 2 days, stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time? You can prep the veggies ahead of time and store them separately. But I recommend mixing everything together just before serving for the best texture.
• What if I don’t have fresh lime juice? Bottled lime juice will work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as bright.
• Can I add other vegetables to this coleslaw? Absolutely! Shredded bell peppers, cucumber, or even some chopped mango would be delicious additions.
• Is this coleslaw suitable for a picnic? Yes, it’s perfect for a picnic! Just keep it chilled until serving.