Delicious Kohlrabi Slaw Recipe - A Refreshing Side Dish
Introduction
Welcome to this article that will guide you through the process of making a delicious and refreshing kohlrabi slaw. This side dish is perfect for any meal and is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
What is Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi, also known as German turnip, is a unique vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family. It has a round shape with a stem that extends from the bulbous base. The taste of kohlrabi is mild and slightly sweet, similar to a blend of cabbage and broccoli stems. It can be consumed raw or cooked, making it versatile in various culinary preparations.
Why Choose Kohlrabi for Slaw?
There are several reasons why kohlrabi is an excellent choice for making slaw. Firstly, its crisp texture adds a refreshing element to the dish. When thinly sliced or shredded, kohlrabi provides a satisfying crunch that complements other ingredients. Secondly, kohlrabi has a subtly sweet flavor that pairs well with tangy dressings or spices, enhancing the overall taste of the slaw. Lastly, kohlrabi is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your meal.
Stay tuned for the next section of this article, where we will dive into the step-by-step process of creating a delicious kohlrabi slaw.
Ingredients
Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a unique vegetable that adds a refreshing crunch to any dish. To make this delicious kohlrabi slaw, you will need two medium-sized kohlrabi bulbs. Peel and julienne them to create thin strips that will blend perfectly with the other ingredients.
Carrots
Carrots bring a vibrant color and natural sweetness to the slaw. You will need two medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated. Grated carrots add texture and a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Cabbage
Cabbage provides a crisp and fresh element to the slaw. For this recipe, you will need half a small head of cabbage, thinly sliced. The cabbage adds a beautiful crunch and a slightly peppery taste.
Red Onion
Red onions add a sharp and tangy flavor to the slaw. Thinly slice half a red onion to incorporate its distinct taste.
Fresh Dill
Fresh dill brings a delightful herbaceous flavor to the slaw. Chop a small handful of fresh dill leaves to infuse the dish with its aromatic essence.
Lemon
Lemon juice adds a zesty and tangy element to the slaw. Squeeze the juice of one medium-sized lemon to enhance the overall flavor.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise serves as the creamy base for the dressing. You will need half a cup of mayonnaise to bind the ingredients together.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the dressing. Use one tablespoon of Dijon mustard to add a touch of sophistication to the slaw.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar brings a tangy and slightly sweet note to the dressing. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the taste of the slaw. Use half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to season the dish to perfection.
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the next step in creating this delicious kohlrabi slaw.
Preparation
Prepare the Kohlrabi
To start making the delicious kohlrabi slaw, you will first need to prepare the kohlrabi. Start by peeling off the tough outer layer of the kohlrabi using a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, cut off any remaining stems and roots. Next, slice the kohlrabi into thin strips or julienne them using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Set aside the prepared kohlrabi strips in a bowl.
Shred the Vegetables
In addition to the kohlrabi, you will also need to shred some additional vegetables to add flavor and texture to the slaw. Begin by shredding a carrot using a grater or a shredding attachment on a food processor. Add the shredded carrot to the bowl with the kohlrabi. Next, thinly slice a red onion and add it to the bowl as well. Lastly, finely chop a handful of fresh cilantro leaves and add them to the bowl.
Make the Dressing
Now it's time to prepare the dressing that will bring all the flavors together. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the juice of one lemon, two tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Once the dressing is well combined, pour it over the prepared vegetables in the bowl.
Mix Everything Together
With all the components ready, it's time to mix everything together to create the delicious kohlrabi slaw. Using clean hands or a pair of salad tongs, toss the vegetables and dressing together until they are well coated. Make sure to evenly distribute the dressing throughout the slaw. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful kohlrabi slaw as a delightful side dish to complement any meal. The crispness of the kohlrabi, the sweetness of the carrot, and the tanginess of the dressing make this slaw a crowd-pleaser. Impress your family and friends with this simple yet sophisticated dish that showcases the versatility of kohlrabi.
Tips and Variations
Addition of Apples or Pears
Adding sliced apples or pears to your kohlrabi slaw can add a touch of natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch. The combination of the crisp kohlrabi and the juicy fruit creates a delightful contrast in texture. To incorporate apples or pears into your slaw, simply peel and core the fruit, then slice it into thin matchsticks. Mix the fruit with the shredded kohlrabi and other ingredients before tossing everything together with the dressing. This variation is especially popular during the fall season when apples and pears are at their peak freshness.
Using Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise
If you prefer a lighter and healthier version of kohlrabi slaw, consider substituting mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the slaw, while also providing a good source of protein. To make the switch, replace the mayonnaise with an equal amount of Greek yogurt in the dressing recipe. You may need to adjust the amount of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors. This variation is perfect for those who are watching their calorie intake or have dietary restrictions.
Adding Toasted Nuts for Crunch
For an extra element of crunch and nutty flavor, try adding toasted nuts to your kohlrabi slaw. Walnuts, almonds, or pecans work particularly well in this recipe. To toast the nuts, simply heat them in a dry pan over medium heat until they become fragrant and golden brown. Let them cool before roughly chopping them and sprinkling over the slaw. The addition of toasted nuts not only enhances the texture but also adds a rich and earthy taste to the overall dish.
Experimenting with Different Herbs
Another way to elevate the flavor profile of your kohlrabi slaw is by experimenting with different herbs. Fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, or basil can bring a burst of freshness and a unique twist to the slaw. Simply chop the herbs finely and toss them into the slaw along with the other ingredients. Be mindful of the herbs' potency, as some may have stronger flavors than others. This variation allows you to customize the slaw to your personal taste preferences and add an aromatic element to the dish.
These tips and variations add versatility and creativity to your kohlrabi slaw recipe, allowing you to tailor it to your liking or try new flavor combinations. Whether you choose to incorporate apples or pears, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, add toasted nuts, or experiment with different herbs, these variations will surely impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates. Enjoy the refreshing and delightful experience of making and savoring your homemade kohlrabi slaw!
