Mary Berry Coronation Coleslaw Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to elevate your usual coleslaw recipe, then Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw is an absolute must-try!

This twist on the classic dish brings a delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and spiced flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. The addition of curry powder and apricots makes it a perfect side dish for a variety of meals, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner. Trust Mary Berry’s expert touch to turn a simple coleslaw into a showstopper!

Mary Berry Coronation Coleslaw Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create the vibrant and delicious Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw, you’ll need a balanced mix of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing ingredients, and a handful of spices to elevate the flavors. The list of ingredients isn’t overwhelmingly long, but each one plays an essential role in creating the signature texture and taste that defines this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 small white cabbage (or half of a larger one): The cabbage is the foundation of the coleslaw, providing the crunchy, fresh texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
• 1 small red cabbage: A splash of color from the red cabbage adds not only visual appeal but also a slightly different texture and flavor.
• 2 large carrots: These will be grated to contribute both a natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch, balancing out the cabbage’s more neutral flavor.
• ½ red onion: Thinly sliced, red onion adds a mild sharpness that provides depth to the coleslaw.
• 200g (7oz) mayonnaise: The creamy base of the coleslaw, making it rich and indulgent. For a lighter version, you could use reduced-fat mayo or a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and a mild heat that complements the richness of the mayo, while cutting through the creaminess.
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar: This ingredient is key to adding acidity and balancing the richness of the dressing, ensuring the flavors don’t become too heavy.
• 1 tbsp curry powder: This is the ingredient that takes the coleslaw to the next level, adding the “Coronation” touch. The curry powder gives it a mild, aromatic heat, with a warm blend of spices that makes this coleslaw distinctly flavorful.
• 1 tsp honey: A touch of sweetness helps to balance the tanginess of the vinegar and mustard.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These are crucial for seasoning the dish to taste, helping to enhance and bring together the flavors.

These ingredients combine to create a visually appealing, tangy, and sweet coleslaw with an aromatic twist, making it a standout dish at any gathering or as a side to complement a wide range of main courses.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw efficiently and without hassle, you’ll need a few basic pieces of kitchen equipment. These items are essential for chopping, grating, mixing, and serving the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sharp knife and chopping board: The cabbage and red onion need to be finely sliced, and a sharp knife will make this job much easier, ensuring the cuts are clean and even. A sturdy chopping board is also a must for safe and precise chopping.
• Box grater or food processor: To grate the carrots, a box grater is a simple but effective tool. Alternatively, you could use a food processor with a grating attachment for faster and more uniform results.
• Large mixing bowl: Since this is a coleslaw recipe, you’ll need a large mixing bowl to toss all the shredded vegetables together and combine them evenly with the dressing.
• Whisk or spoon: You’ll need this for thoroughly mixing the creamy dressing ingredients (mayo, mustard, vinegar, curry powder, honey, salt, and pepper) together before tossing them with the vegetables.
• Serving dish or bowl: Once the coleslaw is ready, transfer it into a serving dish to present it beautifully at the table.

These simple yet essential tools will help streamline the process, making it easy to assemble this flavorful coleslaw.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw

Now, it’s time to dive into the process of making Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw. Thankfully, the steps are straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring a delicious result each time. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Start by removing any tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and finely shred both the white and red cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor.
   • Peel the carrots and then grate them finely using a box grater or food processor. The carrot should be shredded into thin strips that will mix well with the cabbage.
   • Thinly slice the red onion, ensuring the slices are small enough that they don’t overwhelm the other ingredients with their sharpness.

2. Make The Dressing

   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, curry powder, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-combined. The curry powder is what will give this coleslaw its unique flavor, so be sure to blend it well with the other ingredients to avoid clumps.
   • Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more honey for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or curry powder for spice, depending on your preference.

3. Combine The Vegetables And Dressing

   • In the large mixing bowl, add all of the shredded vegetables-both cabbages, carrots, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the top.
   • Gently toss the vegetables with the dressing using a spoon or your hands, ensuring everything is evenly coated. The creaminess of the dressing should envelop each piece of cabbage and carrot, making every bite flavorful.

4. Chill And Serve

   • Once everything is mixed together, cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and the coleslaw to chill, enhancing its taste and texture.
   • After it has chilled, give the coleslaw one final toss, and it’s ready to serve.

This coleslaw is perfect as a side dish for BBQs, roast dinners, or even as part of a buffet spread. It also pairs wonderfully with chicken, pulled pork, or even a vegetarian meal.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Mary Berry Coronation Coleslaw turns out as perfect as possible, consider these expert tips:

• Use Fresh Vegetables: The freshness of your vegetables is key to getting the right texture and flavor in the coleslaw. Use crisp, firm cabbage and carrots for that perfect crunch.
• Chop and Grate Evenly: Try to cut the cabbage and carrots into uniform sizes so that every bite contains a balanced mixture of vegetables. If you’re using a food processor, make sure you use the grating attachment for even-sized shreds.
• Adjust the Curry Powder: Depending on your preference for spice, you can adjust the amount of curry powder. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less, and if you like it spicier, add a bit more.
• Resting Time Is Key: Letting the coleslaw sit in the fridge for an hour or more helps the flavors develop and lets the cabbage soften slightly, making the dish even more enjoyable. If you’re making it in advance, you can let it sit overnight.
• Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, swap out the full-fat mayonnaise for a low-fat alternative or a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt. This will give you a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of vegetables, the richness of creamy dressing, and the aromatic warmth of curry powder. It’s a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the cabbage and carrots. The recipe is not only simple to prepare but can also be adjusted to suit various tastes, whether you prefer a bit more heat or a milder profile.

This coleslaw makes an excellent addition to any meal, whether served at a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a festive occasion. With its colorful presentation and bold flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw

Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw is a classic take on the traditional slaw, with a British twist. The recipe features a creamy dressing that combines mayonnaise, yogurt, and curry powder, which brings a delightful mix of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors.

However, it’s easy to customize this dish with simple twists that reflect your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few creative variations to elevate or adjust this coleslaw to suit your occasion or personal preference:.

1. Adding Fresh Fruits for a Sweet Contrast

One way to jazz up your Coronation Coleslaw is by incorporating fruits like apples, pineapple, or raisins. Chopped Granny Smith apples add a crunchy texture and a tartness that balances the rich dressing, while pineapple lends a juicy sweetness.

Alternatively, raisins bring a chewy texture and a natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Simply chop the fruits into small pieces and fold them in gently with the cabbage mixture.

2. Make it a Crunchy Coleslaw with Nuts and Seeds

For added texture and a nutty depth, consider adding a handful of toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds. These ingredients provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the smooth and creamy dressing. You can also add pumpkin seeds for a more robust texture, or even swap out the traditional cabbage for shredded Brussels sprouts for a different crunch.

3. Spice it Up with Jalapeños or Chili

If you love a bit of heat, adding finely chopped fresh chilies or a few sliced jalapeños can elevate the flavor of your coleslaw. The spice balances out the sweetness of the mayo and yogurt dressing, giving it a lively kick. A dash of chili flakes or a small spoonful of sriracha sauce also works beautifully if you’re looking to add a bit of heat without overpowering the dish.

4. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options

For those avoiding dairy or following a vegan lifestyle, it’s easy to adjust the recipe. Swap the mayonnaise and yogurt with plant-based alternatives like vegan mayo or cashew cream.

These ingredients replicate the creaminess of the original recipe while ensuring the dish is fully vegan. Additionally, you can omit the honey or replace it with agave syrup or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that is also vegan-friendly.

5. Incorporate Other Vegetables

While traditional coleslaw usually includes cabbage, you can mix things up by adding shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even red onion for an extra burst of flavor and color. These additions bring not only variety in taste but also vibrancy to the dish. Shredded beets can also be an interesting and unexpected ingredient, adding both a sweet and earthy flavor while turning the coleslaw a beautiful pinkish hue.

6. Mediterranean Twist

If you want a more Mediterranean-inspired coleslaw, try adding some crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and finely chopped cucumber. These ingredients add saltiness and freshness, turning the dish into a more savory and briny version of the classic Coronation slaw. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried oregano can further enhance the Mediterranean theme.

By experimenting with different combinations, you can create a unique slaw that suits your taste buds while staying true to the spirit of Mary Berry’s original recipe. Whether you’re adding a sweet element with fruits, spicing it up with heat, or transforming it into a vegan-friendly option, there are endless possibilities for delicious variations of Coronation Coleslaw.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers from Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw can be a fantastic treat for the next day, but proper storage is essential to maintain its flavor, texture, and freshness. Here are some best practices to store your coleslaw effectively and enjoy it later without compromising quality:

1. Use an Airtight Container

To keep the coleslaw fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will prevent exposure to air, which can cause the vegetables to wilt and the dressing to become soggy.

Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are a great option as they are easy to clean and won’t absorb odors from the coleslaw. If you don’t have a glass container, any good quality plastic container with a secure lid will work just as well.

2. Refrigerate Immediately

Coleslaw, especially with its creamy dressing, should be stored in the fridge as soon as possible after serving. The cold temperature will slow down the growth of bacteria and preserve the flavors. Ideally, you want to store the coleslaw in the fridge within two hours of serving to prevent any risk of foodborne illness.

3. Keep the Dressing Separate for Longer Freshness

If you plan to store the coleslaw for more than one or two days, it’s a good idea to separate the dressing from the shredded vegetables. The cabbage tends to release moisture over time, which can make the coleslaw watery.

By keeping the dressing in a separate container and mixing it into the vegetables just before serving, you’ll preserve the crispness of the cabbage and the freshness of the dressing. This method extends the shelf life of the slaw for an additional day or two.

4. Consume Within Three to Four Days

While coleslaw can last for up to four days in the fridge, it’s best to enjoy it within the first two days for optimal flavor and texture. After that, the cabbage can become soggy, and the dressing may start to break down. Keep in mind that coleslaw made with fresh fruits or ingredients like apples and pineapple may have a shorter shelf life due to their higher moisture content, so consume those variations quicker.

5. Freezing Is Not Recommended

Unfortunately, freezing coleslaw isn’t ideal. The mayonnaise-based dressing and cabbage do not freeze well and may separate or become mushy upon thawing.

The vegetables in the slaw lose their crisp texture, and the dressing can become watery once defrosted. For the best results, it’s recommended to avoid freezing coleslaw altogether, and instead enjoy it fresh or as leftovers in the fridge.

By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your leftover Coronation Coleslaw stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible, maintaining the crunchy, creamy balance that makes this dish so enjoyable.

What Goes Well With Coronation Coleslaw

Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw, with its rich, tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables, pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile side for many meals. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, a family dinner, or a special gathering, here are some top ideas for what to serve with your coleslaw:

1. Roast Meats and Grilled Dishes

Coronation Coleslaw is a classic accompaniment to roast meats such as chicken, lamb, and pork. The cool, creamy texture of the coleslaw contrasts wonderfully with the richness of roasted or grilled meats.

For a more traditional British pairing, serve it alongside a roast chicken or a BBQ pork joint. The flavors complement each other perfectly, creating a balanced plate that’s both hearty and refreshing.

2. Fish and Chips

Another great match for Coronation Coleslaw is fish and chips, a quintessentially British dish. The slaw’s creamy, tangy dressing cuts through the crispy, fried fish, offering a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. The slight curry spice in the coleslaw also enhances the flavors of the fried fish, making it an ideal accompaniment.

3. Burgers and Sandwiches

Coleslaw is a perfect topping or side for burgers and sandwiches, especially those with grilled meats, pulled pork, or veggie patties. It adds a refreshing crunch to complement the soft, juicy texture of the bun and protein. A classic pulled pork sandwich with a generous helping of Coronation Coleslaw is a crowd-pleasing combination that delivers both flavor and texture in every bite.

4. Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes

For a lighter, plant-based option, Coronation Coleslaw pairs well with vegetarian or vegan dishes like falafel, veggie burgers, or grain bowls. The creamy dressing provides a rich contrast to the earthiness of roasted vegetables or legumes. It also adds brightness to grain-based dishes, balancing the nuttiness of quinoa or bulgur wheat.

5. Salads and Cold Platters

Coronation Coleslaw makes a great addition to mixed salads or cold platters, particularly those with other fresh vegetables, cheeses, or cured meats. It adds an extra element of creaminess and spice, making it an excellent accompaniment to a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter or an antipasti selection. Pair it with crisp salads featuring fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a refreshing combination of textures.

6. Barbecue Dishes

Coleslaw and barbecue go hand in hand. Whether it’s grilled sausages, barbecued ribs, or marinated kebabs, the coolness of Coronation Coleslaw balances the smoky, charred flavors of barbecue foods. It provides a refreshing break from the heat of the grill, making it a must-have side dish at your next BBQ.

By pairing your Coronation Coleslaw with these dishes, you’ll enhance the meal’s overall flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience of contrasting textures and flavors.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw is a delightful twist on the traditional coleslaw, offering a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy profile that’s both comforting and refreshing. Its versatility makes it an ideal side dish for various meals, whether you’re serving it with roast meats, fish, or grilled vegetables. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but it also provides ample opportunity for creative variations, from adding fruits and nuts to experimenting with spicier or vegan options.

By storing leftovers properly in airtight containers and consuming them within a few days, you can enjoy the coleslaw for multiple meals without sacrificing flavor or texture. While it doesn’t freeze well, the freshness of this dish is easy to maintain with a little care.

Coronation Coleslaw’s rich, yet balanced flavors make it the perfect companion to a wide range of dishes, from hearty roasts and BBQs to light salads and sandwiches. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual family meal, this versatile coleslaw is sure to impress your guests and elevate your menu.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw?

Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw recipe requires a variety of ingredients, including cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, curry powder, raisins, and lemon juice. Additionally, you will need salt, pepper, and optional ingredients like mango chutney for extra flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw in advance. It can be made a day or two before serving. In fact, allowing the coleslaw to sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge helps the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier.

How Spicy Is Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw?

The spiciness of Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw is mild to medium, depending on the amount of curry powder and other optional ingredients like mango chutney that you choose to add. If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the curry powder or add chili flakes.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw Without Mayonnaise?

Yes, you can make a lighter version of Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw by substituting mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative. This will still give the coleslaw a creamy texture without using traditional mayonnaise.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw Keep In The Fridge?

Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to consume it within 1-2 days.

What Can I Serve Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw With?

Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s commonly served with roasted meats like chicken or pork, barbecue dishes, and sandwiches. It also works as a side dish for summer picnics, buffets, or casual gatherings.

Can I Add Extra Vegetables To Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw?

Yes, you can customize Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw by adding extra vegetables. Sliced bell peppers, sweetcorn, or red onion can add additional crunch and flavor. Just be mindful that adding too many vegetables may alter the overall texture of the dish.

Is Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, Mary Berry’s coronation coleslaw recipe is vegetarian, as it does not contain any meat. It’s made with vegetables, mayonnaise, yogurt, and other plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarians.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Cabbage For Mary Berry’s Coronation Coleslaw?

While the traditional recipe calls for green cabbage, you can substitute it with other types of cabbage, such as red cabbage or savoy cabbage. Keep in mind that red cabbage will add a vibrant color, and savoy cabbage has a softer texture.

What Is The Origin Of Coronation Coleslaw?

Coronation coleslaw is a British dish that was created to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. The dish was designed to be a modern, flavorful take on traditional coleslaw, incorporating curry powder and fruit like raisins to create a unique, tangy flavor profile.