Maple-Cider Slaw with Air-Fried Apples and Potatoes Recipe

Name: Maple-Cider Slaw with Air-Fried Apples and Potatoes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 extra-large russet potato, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick; 4 teaspoons plus 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 medium apples, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges; 3 tablespoons cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 7 cups shredded red and/or green cabbage

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 extra-large russet potato, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick
2 teaspoons plus 1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 apples, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
7 cups shredded red and/or green cabbage

Directions

Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C) for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, toss the potato slices with 2 teaspoons of oil, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
Transfer the potatoes to the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, toss the apple wedges with the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil in a bowl.
After 8 minutes, add the apple slices to the air fryer basket with the potatoes and toss everything together.
Continue cooking for an additional 8 minutes, or until the potatoes are browned and tender.
For the slaw, whisk together the cider vinegar, maple syrup, the remaining 1/4 cup of oil, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper in a large bowl.
Add the shredded cabbage to the bowl and toss until well coated.
Serve the roasted potatoes and apples alongside the apple slaw.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 322
Fat: 11g (14% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 2g (8% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
Sodium: 211mg (9% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 53g (19% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 8g (29% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 17g
Protein: 6g (12% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 81mg (90% Daily Value)
Calcium: 121mg (9% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
Potassium: 1215mg (26% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Maple-Cider Slaw with Air-Fried Apples and Potatoes

Maple-Cider Slaw with Air-Fried Apples and Potatoes is a modern American creation that draws inspiration from traditional autumn harvest flavors. The dish combines the natural sweetness of apples and maple syrup with the tangy brightness of cider vinegar, reflecting the seasonal abundance of North American orchards. While coleslaw has existed for centuries, this recipe reimagines it by incorporating air-fried potatoes and apples, a technique that enhances texture while maintaining a lighter, healthier approach.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is rooted in the culinary traditions of the Northeastern United States and Canada, regions famous for apple orchards and maple syrup production. The use of cider vinegar and maple syrup gives it a distinctively East Coast flavor profile. Unlike traditional Southern coleslaw, which often emphasizes creamy mayonnaise, this version balances sweet and tangy elements, reflecting the local produce and the seasonal inspiration of fall harvests in these regions.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While standard coleslaw typically features shredded cabbage dressed in mayonnaise or vinaigrette, this maple-cider variant introduces air-fried apples and potatoes, adding a complex mix of textures and flavors. The air-frying technique produces a crisp exterior on the potatoes while keeping the apples tender, creating a contrast that is both playful and sophisticated. The integration of maple syrup in the dressing sets it apart from the more conventional savory or mustard-based slaws, providing a gentle sweetness that complements the natural starchiness of potatoes.

Typical Serving Contexts

Maple-Cider Slaw with Air-Fried Apples and Potatoes is often served as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled poultry, or pork tenderloin. It is especially popular at autumn-themed gatherings, harvest festivals, and Thanksgiving tables. Its colorful presentation and combination of flavors also make it a standout option for potlucks or casual dinner parties. While it pairs beautifully with hearty mains, it can also be enjoyed on its own as a light, satisfying vegetarian dish.

Interesting Facts

The use of air-frying instead of deep-frying significantly reduces fat content while maintaining a crispy texture.
Maple syrup, a natural sweetener, is rich in antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc, offering more nutritional value than refined sugar.
The dish reflects the North American tradition of incorporating seasonal fruits into everyday meals, a practice dating back to early colonial times.
Combining apples and cabbage in a slaw is an inventive twist that balances sweetness and crunch, which is less common in classical European slaws.
This recipe demonstrates the growing trend of fusion cooking, blending traditional coleslaw with contemporary techniques and seasonal ingredients for a modern flavor profile.

FAQ about Maple-Cider Slaw with Air-Fried Apples and Potatoes Recipe

Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the potatoes and apples separate from the slaw to maintain their texture. Reheat the potatoes and apples in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy.

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russet potatoes are recommended for their crispy texture when air-fried.

You can prepare the slaw dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, it's best to combine the cabbage and dressing just before serving to keep the slaw crunchy.

Yes, if you don't have an air fryer, you can roast the potatoes and apples in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, then add the apples and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

If you don't have cider vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still provide the necessary acidity for the slaw.

Yes, you can add other vegetables like shredded carrots, red onions, or bell peppers to enhance the slaw. Just make sure to adjust the amount of dressing accordingly to coat all the vegetables.

It takes about 16 minutes total to cook the potatoes and apples in the air fryer. The potatoes cook for 8 minutes on their own, and then you add the apples and cook for another 8 minutes until everything is browned and tender.

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute. The flavor of the dressing will change slightly depending on what you use.

This recipe yields 6 servings.

Yes, the slaw dressing is naturally dairy-free as it contains only cider vinegar, maple syrup, and vegetable oil. No dairy ingredients are used in the recipe.