Broccoli Slaw with Spicy Dressing Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 (12 ounce) package of broccoli coleslaw mix
• cup light mayonnaise
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• teaspoon chili powder
• teaspoon ground cumin
• teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Directions

Step 1: Add the broccoli coleslaw mix into a large bowl.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, lime juice, white sugar, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully blended.

Step 3: Pour the mayo and spice mixture over the broccoli slaw, tossing everything together to coat the slaw evenly with the dressing.

Step 4: Once thoroughly mixed, let the coleslaw sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbohydrate	Dietary Fiber	Total Sugars	Protein	Vitamin C	Calcium	Iron	Potassium
143	11g	2g	11mg	255mg	12g	3g	7g	1g	6mg	10mg	0mg	49mg

Servings Per Recipe: 4

Percent Daily Value: Based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

Broccoli Slaw with Spicy Dressing is a modern American take on the classic coleslaw, which traditionally uses cabbage as the main ingredient. Broccoli slaw, however, swaps cabbage for finely shredded broccoli stems, adding a hearty crunch and vibrant color. This variation likely emerged in the 1990s when more health-conscious, vegetable-rich recipes began gaining popularity in the U.S. The spicy dressing made with lime, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne reflects the increasing trend of blending traditional American ingredients with bold, international flavors, particularly from Mexican and Southwestern cuisines.

Regional Features

While broccoli slaw can be found across the United States, it is particularly popular in the Southern and Southwestern regions. In these areas, spicy dishes with bold flavors are a staple, and the addition of chili powder and cayenne in the dressing makes it a natural fit for regional tastes. It is often served as a side dish to complement grilled meats, tacos, and barbecued foods, where its cooling crunch balances the heat of spicy main dishes. In California, for instance, the use of fresh lime and chili powder in slaws is a common way to enhance vegetable-based salads.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to traditional coleslaw, which typically uses a mayonnaise-based dressing with a tangy or sweet flavor profile, broccoli slaw offers a different texture and flavor combination. The finely shredded broccoli stems provide a denser, more fibrous crunch than cabbage, while the spicy dressing introduces an unexpected kick. The use of lime, cumin, and cayenne in the dressing makes it distinctly more zesty and spicy than the typical coleslaw, which is often sweeter or more acidic. Moreover, the addition of brown sugar and white sugar creates a balanced sweetness that complements the spicy heat, making it stand out from the more straightforwardly tangy or creamy coleslaws.

Where It's Commonly Served

Broccoli Slaw with Spicy Dressing is often served as a side dish at summer barbecues, picnics, and casual gatherings. It's a common accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken, pork, or beef, particularly in regions where barbecuing is a favored cooking method. Additionally, it pairs well with tacos, especially fish tacos, where the crunchiness of the slaw contrasts nicely with the softness of the tortilla and the richness of the fish. The dish is also a popular choice at health-conscious restaurants and delis, where it serves as a lighter alternative to traditional coleslaw while still offering a satisfying bite.

Interesting Facts

• The broccoli used in this slaw is actually the stem of the broccoli plant, which is often discarded in favor of the florets. Using the stems in this recipe helps reduce food waste and adds a unique texture.
• Spicy dressings like the one used in this recipe have been increasingly popular in the U.S. in recent years as consumers seek bold, global flavors. Ingredients such as cumin, chili powder, and cayenne are staples in cuisines like Mexican, Indian, and Mediterranean.
• Broccoli itself is packed with vitamins and nutrients, making broccoli slaw a healthy alternative to more traditional slaws that often rely on mayonnaise-based dressings. This dish provides a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Some variations of broccoli slaw may include additional ingredients like carrots, raisins, or sunflower seeds, adding even more texture and flavor to the dish.

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