Food - Drink
What Makes Lexington-Style Coleslaw Unique
By MELISSA NICHOLSON
What Is It?
Americans love coleslaw, and where you live likely determines which you like best. Residents in Lexington, North Carolina prefer red coleslaw, which is unique for incorporating a blend of vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and hot sauce, and although it varies from sour to sweet, it's so popular it’s a staple at every barbecue joint.
How It's Made
Lexington-style slaw pairs so well with barbecue because Lexington-style barbecue uses the same blend of vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and hot sauce, and when added to the coleslaw, the sauce gives the slaw its signature red color. To make it, all you need is cabbage, carrots, vinegar, ketchup, sugar, salt and pepper, and hot sauce.
Other ‘Slaws
The flavor of Lexington-style coleslaw is ultimately a balance of sour, sweet, and heat, with a crunchy texture. Compared to other coleslaw, the red color and heat are what makes red slaw unique, so if you don’t want any spice, you’re better off choosing a traditional mayo-based coleslaw or a tangy Asian-style coleslaw.