We’ve always been fans of the Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw Recipe as it adds a delightful crunch to any meal. Inspired by the smoky vibes of Wood Ranch BBQ this coleslaw swaps traditional flavors for a nutty twist with roasted peanuts that elevate the classic cabbage base.
It’s not just tasty—it’s versatile too making it ideal for picnics or weeknight dinners. We’ll show you how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser that brings bold tastes straight to your table.
Ingredients
For our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw recipe, we start with fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver a nutty crunch and vibrant flavors. Below, we list them in the order they are used during preparation, including prep specifics for accuracy.
Slaw Base Ingredients
- Shredded cabbage: 4 cups (about 1 medium head), finely shredded for a crisp, refreshing base that provides the signature texture.
- Shredded carrots: 1 cup (from 2 large carrots), grated to add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
Dressing Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup, full-fat for a creamy, rich binder that coats the vegetables smoothly.
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons, adding a tangy acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Honey: 1 tablespoon, offering a subtle sweetness that enhances the peanuts’ nutty notes.
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon, for a mild kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to season and draw out the vegetables’ natural juices.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground for a subtle spicy warmth.
Add-Ins
- Roasted peanuts: 1 cup, coarsely chopped for an irresistible crunch that sets our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw apart—roast them lightly if starting from raw for enhanced flavor.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw, gathering the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient process. We find that having these essential tools on hand makes chopping, mixing, and assembling the coleslaw’s crunchy cabbage, carrots, and roasted peanuts straightforward and enjoyable.
Here’s a list of the key equipment we recommend for this recipe:
- Large Cutting Board: Ideal for safely chopping and shredding the cabbage and carrots to achieve that perfect, fine texture.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: We rely on this for precise slicing of vegetables, helping to create the coleslaw’s signature crunch without any hassle.
- Box Grater or Mandoline Slicer: Essential for grating carrots and shredding cabbage quickly and evenly, which enhances the dish’s fresh, vibrant appeal.
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this to combine the slaw base with the creamy dressing, ensuring everything mixes uniformly for optimal flavor distribution.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for the dressing ingredients like mayonnaise, honey, and apple cider vinegar—we always opt for a set to avoid guesswork.
- Whisk or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly and folding in the coarsely chopped roasted peanuts for that nutty twist.
With these tools, we can prepare our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw efficiently, turning simple ingredients into a delightful, crowd-pleasing side dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through preparing our flavorful Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw with straightforward steps that deliver a crisp, nutty delight perfect for any gathering.
Prep the Vegetables
First, rinse 1 medium head of cabbage under cold water and pat it dry on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, finely shred the cabbage into thin strips to create that signature crunch we love in coleslaw. Next, peel and grate 2 large carrots with a box grater or mandoline slicer for even, vibrant pieces that add color and sweetness to our dish.
Make the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously until it forms a smooth, creamy emulsion that coats the back of a spoon, ensuring a tangy balance that elevates the nutty profile of our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw.
Assemble the Coleslaw
Transfer the shredded cabbage and grated carrots into a large mixing bowl, then pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently with a silicone spatula to coat everything evenly. Finally, fold in 1 cup of coarsely chopped roasted peanuts, distributing them throughout for an irresistible crunch and added depth of flavor that makes our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw a standout side dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw is its flexibility for advance preparation, allowing flavors to meld and saving time on busy days. We recommend making this coleslaw up to 24 hours ahead to enhance its crisp texture and nutty crunch, while ensuring it’s ready to impress at picnics, dinners, or gatherings.
Steps for Preparing Ahead
Follow these simple steps to prepare your coleslaw in advance:
- Prep the vegetables and dressing separately: First, shred the cabbage and grate the carrots as outlined in our preparation instructions. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This prevents the vegetables from wilting prematurely and keeps the nutty twist from the roasted peanuts fresh.
- Assemble without peanuts: Combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and dressing in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to coat evenly, ensuring every bite delivers that vibrant, tangy creaminess we love. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Add peanuts just before serving: Right before you serve, fold in the coarsely chopped roasted peanuts. This step preserves their satisfying crunch and prevents them from softening, maintaining the dish’s irresistible contrast of textures and flavors.
Storage Tips for Optimal Freshness
To keep your Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw at its best, we suggest the guidelines in the table below for refrigeration times and serving suggestions:
| Aspect | Recommendation | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration Time | Up to 24 hours for full assembly without peanuts | Allows flavors to intensify, enhancing the overall taste profile |
| Temperature | 40°F (4°C) or below | Prevents bacterial growth and maintains crispness |
| Portioning | Store in smaller containers if needed | Minimizes exposure to air, reducing sogginess |
By following these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy a perfectly balanced coleslaw with deepened flavors and effortless serving—making it a go-to for our quick meal rotations.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw recipe and how it brings a fresh twist to your table. It’s a simple way to add crunch and flavor that elevates any meal.
Try it for your next gathering—it’s sure to become one of our go-to favorites for its ease and crowd-pleasing appeal. You’ll enjoy the nutty goodness that makes every bite memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw Recipe?
The Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw Recipe is a twist on classic coleslaw, featuring roasted peanuts for added crunch and nutty flavor. It’s made with shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and a creamy dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This versatile dish is perfect for picnics, dinners, or gatherings, offering a simple way to elevate your meals with fresh, balanced tastes.
What ingredients are needed for Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw?
You’ll need a base of finely shredded cabbage and grated carrots, plus coarsely chopped roasted peanuts. The dressing includes mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a crunchy, flavorful side dish that serves about 6-8 people and takes minimal prep time.
What equipment is required to make this coleslaw?
Essential tools include a large cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, box grater or mandoline slicer for veggies, a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and a whisk or silicone spatula for blending. These items ensure efficient preparation without needing specialized kitchen gadgets.
How do I prepare Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw?
Start by rinsing and shredding cabbage, then grating carrots. Mix the dressing: combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss veggies with the dressing, fold in roasted peanuts, and chill briefly. It’s ready in about 15 minutes and serves as a crowd-pleasing side.
Can I make Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, prepare veggies and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance to avoid wilting. Assemble without peanuts and refrigerate. Add peanuts just before serving to keep them crunchy. This method enhances flavors and saves time for busy occasions.
How should I store Wood Ranch Peanut Coleslaw?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Portion into smaller containers to limit air exposure and maintain freshness. Avoid freezing, as it can make textures soggy. For best results, consume within 24 hours after adding peanuts.