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Flavorful Firecracker Coleslaw Recipe with Easy Spicy Sriracha Honey Dressing

firecracker coleslaw - featured image

A bold and spicy coleslaw featuring a quick sriracha-honey dressing that balances sweet heat with crisp, fresh vegetables. Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a flavorful topping for sandwiches and tacos.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and julienned or shredded
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables (10-15 minutes): Rinse the cabbage heads and peel the carrots. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, finely shred the green and red cabbage into a large bowl. Shred or julienne the carrots and add to the bowl. Thinly slice the green onions and chop the cilantro, then toss all the veggies together gently.
  2. Make the Dressing (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. If the dressing is too thick, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it.
  3. Toss and Coat (2-3 minutes): Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture. Using tongs or clean hands, toss everything together to evenly coat the cabbage and carrots with the spicy sriracha-honey dressing.
  4. Let It Rest (Optional, 10-15 minutes): For best flavor, let the slaw sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to mellow and flavors to meld.
  5. Add the Finishing Touches: Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for an extra nutty crunch and visual appeal.

Notes

Do not overshred cabbage to maintain crunch. Adjust sriracha to control heat level. Fresh lime juice enhances flavor. Dressing can be loosened with water if too thick. Letting slaw rest improves flavor melding. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days; toss before serving to drain excess liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: firecracker coleslaw, spicy coleslaw, sriracha honey dressing, quick coleslaw recipe, easy side dish, barbecue side, spicy slaw