Classic Cafe Cole Slaw

This coleslaw is a simple classic, served in cafes across the south. With only a few ingredients, this slaw makes a perfect side to any meal: Spaghetti dinner, Frisco Stew, or even Thanksgiving! Perfect for showers, lunches, and summertime BBQ's.

One of Mamaw's many old plastic bowls.
They've lasted years and probably had so many delicious things stored in them!

This recipe is one that Mamaw makes almost completely by taste and feel. If the consistency feels wrong, she adds some more mayo. If it doesn't taste right, more sugar or salt. 

1 head of cabbage (fresh from the garden won't be as sweet, and will require more sugar). Shred with a box grater, a shredding attachment on a food processor, or with a sharp knife. 

1-2 carrots, "purely for color," also put through the box grater. 

Start with 1 cup of  mayonnaise and 3/4 cup of sugar. More can be added if desired. These two ingredients will vary based on the size and freshness of the cabbage you have. 

Mix in a large bowl. You don't have to use your hands, but this recipe relies so much on feel, my Mamaw just uses her hands to mix.

If it isn't creamy enough, add more mayo. Not sweet enough, add more sugar.  If made to my mamaw's tastes, she adds another tablespoon or mayo and another 1/4 cup of sugar. 

The great thing about this recipe is how flexible it is! Want to add carrots, red cabbage, fresh herbs? Go for it! This basic coleslaw can stand up to just about most additions and flavor profiles. But sticking to the classics will always be a crowd-pleaser.