Bunyan’s Bbq Slaw Recipe

Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw is a flavorful twist on traditional coleslaw, typically served as a side dish alongside barbecue meats. This article explores the history of Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw, highlights the unique ingredients that set it apart, and provides step-by-step instructions for preparing it. Additionally, it offers suggestions for pairing the slaw with both traditional and vegetarian barbecue options, storage instructions for any leftovers, and insights into the reasons behind its popularity.

Who is Paul Bunyan?

Paul Bunyan is a legendary figure in American folklore, symbolizing strength and the spirit of the lumberjack. His story has been embraced by various regional narratives, including that of Bunyan’s BBQ, a family-owned BBQ joint located in Florence, Alabama, where a deep love for Southern cuisine thrives.

This establishment serves as more than just a restaurant; it is a cultural hub that celebrates local flavors. Bunyan’s BBQ offers unique dishes, such as Hot Slaw and slaw dogs, which embody the spirit of community and tradition, attracting both music lovers and locals from nearby Muscle Shoals.

What is BBQ Slaw?

BBQ Slaw, also known as Hot Slaw or pool room slaw, is a spicy and tangy side dish that is a staple of Southern cuisine and a perfect complement to pulled pork served on a hamburger bun. It pairs exceptionally well with smoked meats and other barbecue dishes.

The ingredients in this slaw combine to create a flavor profile that is both tangy and spicy, with a hint of sweetness. This makes it a popular choice for backyard grilling and neighborhood barbecue gatherings, as it adds a crunchy texture that enhances the overall meal.

What Makes BBQ Slaw Different from Traditional Coleslaw?

BBQ Slaw is a spicier take on traditional coleslaw, featuring ingredients such as paprika, red cayenne pepper, and hot sauce that come together to create a bold and spicy flavor profile.

In contrast, traditional coleslaw is typically milder and creamier than this uniquely flavored version. Many BBQ Slaw recipes use a vinegar base instead of mayonnaise, which not only enhances the traditional slaw flavor but also allows the spices to shine through more prominently.

Additional variations may incorporate jalapeños or mustard for an extra kick, which is not commonly found in creamy coleslaw recipes.

When prepared, the crunchiness of cabbage harmonizes beautifully with the spicy and tangy elements, resulting in a refreshing yet spicy side dish that pairs excellently with smoked meats.

What Ingredients are Needed for Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw Recipe?

Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw recipe features green cabbage, grated carrots, grated onion, and grated green pepper as its primary ingredients.

The recipe calls for paprika and red cayenne pepper as spices, while seasoning is accomplished with non-iodized salt. The dressing is a blend of white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and hot sauce.

This slaw has a spicy flavor and is designed to complement BBQ meals.

What Type of Cabbage Should be Used?

Green cabbage is the ideal choice for BBQ slaw due to its perfect crunch, which complements the spicy dressing and other ingredients. When chopped, the cabbage enhances the slaw’s crunchiness and allows the dressing to infuse its flavors throughout.

This characteristic is a key reason why it stands out as the best option for BBQ slaw. Compared to other types of cabbage, such as red or Napa, green cabbage retains its vibrancy and freshness even after being dressed.

Red cabbage is denser and does not absorb the zesty flavors as effectively, while Napa cabbage, with its delicate leaves, tends to wilt when exposed to stronger dressings.

For BBQ slaw to achieve the right balance of flavors and crunch, green cabbage is the optimal choice, allowing both elements to shine.

What Type of BBQ Sauce is Recommended?

The best sauces for BBQ slaw include options like Goya and Crystal Hot Sauce. The heat from these sauces balances well with the slaw’s spicy notes, while a combination of ketchup and prepared yellow mustard creates a zingy dressing that enhances the slaw’s flavor.

These sauces are selected for their unique properties, contributing to a dynamic interplay of flavors in the slaw. The heat from Goya or Crystal adds warmth, while the sweetness of ketchup counterbalances the spice, ensuring the dish is not overly fiery. Mustard introduces a pungent zest that cuts through the creaminess.

When combined with shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and other vegetables, BBQ slaw sauces provide both flavor and texture.

Is There a Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?

The best substitute for apple cider vinegar in BBQ slaw is white vinegar, as it offers a similar tart flavor. While it may not provide the sweetness and fruitiness of apple cider vinegar, it helps maintain the overall flavor and acidity balance of the slaw.

Another excellent alternative is rice vinegar, particularly seasoned rice vinegar, which adds a mild sweetness and umami without overpowering the other ingredients. A splash of lemon juice can also introduce bright acidity to the savory elements of BBQ slaw, providing a refreshing twist.

Balsamic vinegar is another option, although it is much sweeter and imparts a richer flavor along with acidity. These alternatives can mimic the properties of apple cider vinegar while contributing their own unique characteristics.

How to Prepare Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw?

Making Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw is a straightforward process that involves chopping fresh ingredients and preparing a dressing to achieve the perfect slaw.

To prepare the slaw, shred the vegetables, including green cabbage, grated carrot, and grated onion, and combine them with the other ingredients.

Ensure that all elements are well blended before placing the mixture in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.

Step-by-Step Instructions

The ingredients for BBQ Slaw, specifically Paul Bunyan’s recipe, include:

• green cabbage, chopped cabbage
• grated carrot
• grated onion
• grated green pepper
• white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• sugar and ketchup
• hot sauce and prepared yellow mustard
• non-iodized salt

This dish, a nod to Bunyan’s BBQ, is typically served cold as a side to accompany barbecued meats, showcasing the spicy blend of unique flavors.

To prepare BBQ Slaw, finely chop the vegetables—green cabbage, grated carrot, grated onion, and grated green pepper—and place them in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, blend ingredients for the dressing—white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, hot sauce, paprika, red cayenne pepper, and ketchup—and mix them well before adding them to the chopped vegetables.

For optimal flavor, refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together into slaw perfection. When mixing, it is best to use tongs to ensure that the dressing evenly coats all the vegetable strands.

BBQ Slaw is a fantastic cold side dish, with its crunchy texture providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of grilled meats. For an extra touch, you can garnish the slaw with additional chopped green onions or sesame seeds. This relish slaw is a slice of life reflecting home cooking and local favorites.

Tips for Making the Perfect BBQ Slaw

The key tip for creating the best BBQ slaw is to refrigerate it after mixing. This allows the flavors to blend and develop fully before serving. For optimal results, use freshly grated ingredients instead of pre-packaged varieties, ensuring a crunchy and flavorful slaw that complements any BBQ dish perfectly.

Choosing the right vegetables is essential; opt for a variety of crunchy, fresh options to maximize flavor and texture. Great choices include chopped cabbage, which contributes to the mustard dressing and enhances the slaw’s unique flavors:

• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Onions
• Bell peppers

Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly influences the quality of your BBQ slaw.

When preparing the dressing, keep in mind that the flavor of BBQ sauce, whether it’s from brands like Goya or Crystal Hot Sauce, can vary by brand. To balance the sweetness and tanginess, consider adding vinegar, lemon juice, or spices. If your dressing tastes too sweet, try incorporating vinegar or lemon juice, with apple cider vinegar being an excellent choice as it pairs well with both BBQ sauce and vinegar-based coleslaw dressings.

Add seasoning gradually rather than all at once. This approach allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking without overwhelming the dish. Taste the slaw frequently and make adjustments based on your personal preferences.

Lastly, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While BBQ slaw can be kept in the fridge for a few days, it will begin to lose its freshness shortly after preparation. The best BBQ slaw is enjoyed the day it is made.

What Dishes Pair Well with BBQ Slaw?

BBQ slaw is an excellent complement to pulled pork served on a hamburger bun and also makes a delicious topping for slaw dogs.

This dish highlights regional Southern cuisine while elevating the flavor of inexpensive hot dogs to a gourmet level.

Traditional BBQ Dishes

BBQ Slaw pairs exceptionally well with traditional BBQ dishes such as pulled pork on a hamburger bun and smoked ribs, as its spicy and tangy notes enhance the overall meal. The freshness of the slaw provides a crunchy texture that balances the rich and smoky flavors characteristic of these Southern cuisine staples, whether enjoyed in a backyard grilling session or a neighborhood barbecue.

Additionally, brisket and chicken complement BBQ Slaw beautifully, adding even more layers of flavor. The slow-cooked brisket contributes a robust mouthfeel, while the grilled chicken introduces a hint of smokiness that harmonizes with the slaw’s sharp acidity. For a spicy blend, try adding a dash of hot sauce and paprika for a perfect complement to the slaw’s flavors.

These traditional dishes reflect the cultural heritage of Southern BBQ, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking methods. In particular, the use of green cabbage and grated carrot in the slaw highlights the essence of home cooking. Together, they create a vibrant interplay of textures and flavors, fostering a communal dining experience that celebrates the artistry of barbecue and the cherished moments shared around the grill.

Vegetarian Options

BBQ Slaw is a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables and plant-based burgers, making it an excellent choice for those seeking vegetarian options. This slaw offers a zesty and refreshing flavor that beautifully contrasts with the smoky notes of grilled items, enhancing their overall flavor profile. For those who enjoy a spicy twist, try incorporating hot slaw into your meal to experience unique flavors.

In Southern cuisine, the bright and fresh tastes of slaw help to lighten otherwise heavy dishes, making them more enjoyable for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The addition of a mustard dressing or a hint of cayenne pepper can elevate the slaw to slaw perfection, embellishing a slice of life from the Southern culinary tradition.

With its crunchy chopped cabbage and tangy sauce, BBQ Slaw complements smoky grilled corn on the cob or charred eggplant, elevating the flavors and textures of any plant-based spread. The blend of apple cider vinegar and grated onion in the recipe contributes to its distinctive taste.

Additionally, a hearty quinoa salad can be enhanced with a side of BBQ Slaw, where the slaw’s crunchiness contrasts with the creamy elements of avocado or nuts often found in salads. Incorporating elements such as grated green pepper and non-iodized salt adds depth to the dish.

When served alongside chickpea fritters infused with fresh herbs, the slaw provides a burst of flavor that ties the meal together, ensuring that every bite is equally satisfying. The slaw’s spicy blend of paprika and white vinegar offers a delightful contrast to the fritters.

How to Store Leftover BBQ Slaw?

Leftover BBQ slaw should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated as soon as possible after serving. This helps preserve the slaw’s crispness while allowing the flavors to continue mingling, enhancing the taste when you’re ready to enjoy it again. The process of refrigeration is crucial to let the flavors blend seamlessly.

It is advisable to store any extra dressing or toppings separately to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy; however, many people don’t mind if the dressing is mixed in, provided it’s consumed within a reasonable timeframe.

Ideally, leftover slaw should be eaten within three to five days for the best taste and texture, although the airtight seal can help extend its freshness. If you have more slaw than you can consume, consider dividing it into two or more smaller containers for storage.

These containers can also serve as convenient meal prep options for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners. By following these simple storage recommendations, anyone can enjoy their BBQ slaw tasting just as fresh as the day it was made.

Why is Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw Recipe so Popular?

Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw recipe has gained widespread popularity thanks to its unique flavors and its ability to perfectly complement a variety of dishes, highlighting the essence of Southern cuisine. Known for its signature spicy blend of hot sauce and ketchup, this slaw recipe from Bunyans BBQ is a favorite among both locals and tourists in Florence, Alabama.

The blend of fresh ingredients with a spicy dressing not only appeals to BBQ enthusiasts but has also become a beloved local favorite in Florence, Alabama, where it is often enjoyed alongside other regional specialties.

History of the Recipe

The history of Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw recipe reflects the rich culinary traditions of the South, originating from Bunyan’s BBQ joint in Florence, Alabama, where it has been creatively developed and perfected over the years. This family-owned establishment has become a beacon of Southern BBQ, attracting both music lovers and food enthusiasts.

This recipe embodies the essence of Southern cuisine, weaving together stories and flavors that resonate with both locals and visitors alike. With roots tracing back to the early 20th century, BBQ slaw has evolved into a staple side dish within Southern barbecue culture, often served alongside pulled pork on a hamburger bun or as slaw dogs with cheap hot dogs.

At Bunyan’s BBQ, the slaw is crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the essence of home cooking. The combination of tangy white vinegar and apple cider vinegar, along with crisp cabbage and a hint of sweetness, showcases the unique balance found in Southern dishes.

This beloved recipe not only offers a refreshing contrast to the smoky richness of barbecue but also pays homage to traditional Southern hospitality, where every meal tells a story and every bite evokes memories of gatherings around the dinner table. It’s a slice of life that embodies the communal spirit of neighborhood barbecues and backyard grilling sessions.

Celebrity Endorsements

Celebrity endorsements have played a significant role in popularizing Paul Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw, with influencers highlighting its unique flavors and culinary artistry at Bunyan’s BBQ. These endorsements not only enhance the quality of the dish but also contribute to its reputation as a beloved local favorite in Florence, Alabama, attracting food enthusiasts from near and far. Notable mentions from the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and renowned figures like Dr. Dre and W.C. Handy have further cemented its status.

For instance, renowned chefs and food influencers have shared their experiences with the tantalizing slaw on social media platforms, often posting mouthwatering photographs that showcase its vibrant colors and textures. Its connection to cultural landmarks such as Muscle Shoals and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame adds to its allure.

Events such as food festivals, where local celebrities sample and praise the dish, have further boosted its popularity, making it a hot topic among food critics and bloggers. This rising buzz surrounding BBQ Slaw not only elevates its reputation but also enriches the overall culinary scene in the region, adding to the local culture and enticing visitors eager to experience the flavors that the stars are raving about. The small limited menu at Bunyan’s BBQ ensures a focus on quality, making every dish a local favorite.

Variations of the Recipe

Variations of BBQ slaw are numerous, with many recipes incorporating unique ingredients such as relish slaw or pool room slaw, each offering a different twist on the traditional preparation. Some recipes even feature secret dressings that enhance the flavor to cater to individual tastes. These recipe variations highlight the creativity and adaptability inherent in Southern cooking instructions.

Additionally, regional differences in BBQ slaw recipes are often influenced by personal preferences and the local availability of ingredients. For instance, vinegar-based slaw is commonly associated with the Carolinas, where a sharper vinegar note and tangy flavor profile are favored. In contrast, creamy mayonnaise-based slaw is preferred in other regions, where a richer, more decadent flavor complements smoked meats nicely. The inclusion of jalapeños, pineapples, or even a grated green pepper further illustrates how personal preferences can shape these recipes.

Additional ingredient variations include the following:

• Reds and Greens: Ingredients can range from simple green cabbage to red cabbage, grated carrot, grated onion, peppers, or even fruits like apples and pineapples.
• Hot or Cold: Some slaws are prepared fresh and served with the meal, while others are made in advance and refrigerated to marinate, allowing the flavors to blend, and served cold.
• Creamy or Vinegar-Based: Creamy coleslaws typically use yogurt, sour cream, or mayonnaise, while vinegar-based slaws feature a thin dressing of oil, vinegar, and seasonings.
• Fruity: Fruits such as apples, pears, pineapples, and grapes are often included in slaw recipes to add sweetness and texture, making them popular side dishes for smoked meats or for summer picnics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw Recipe?

Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw Recipe is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with any BBQ meal. It is a combination of shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and a tangy, homemade dressing, often enhanced with a spicy blend of prepared yellow mustard and Goya/Crystal hot sauce.

What ingredients are needed to make Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw?

The ingredients for Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw include cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, and salt and pepper. For extra spice, paprika and red cayenne pepper can be added.

How do I make Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw?

To make Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw, start by shredding cabbage and grated onion, and mixing them together in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, and salt and pepper. For added flavor, consider incorporating paprika, red cayenne pepper, and hot sauce. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss to evenly coat. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Can I make Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw in advance?

Yes, Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise in Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw?

Yes, you can use a light mayonnaise or a yogurt-based dressing for a healthier option. However, the traditional recipe calls for regular mayonnaise.

What dishes pair well with Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw?

Bunyan’s BBQ Slaw is the perfect side dish for any BBQ meal. It goes well with pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, grilled chicken, and any other BBQ meats. It also makes a great topping for burgers and hot dogs.