Skip The Mayo. Dress Your Coleslaw In Alabama White BBQ Sauce Instead

Alabama white BBQ sauce is different from traditional barbecue sauce

Did you know that the ingredients in barbecue sauce can differ based on your location? Across the U.S., regional barbecue sauce styles showcase a variety of flavors, and Alabama white sauce is distinct from traditional tomato-based BBQ sauces in both taste and consistency, making it an exceptional option for coleslaw. Classic barbecue sauces, like those from Kansas City and Nashville, tend to be sweet and smoky, often incorporating tomatoes, molasses, and a mix of spices. In contrast, some Southern sauces, particularly those from the Carolinas, have a more pronounced vinegar flavor.

Alabama white BBQ sauce is both savory and tangy, thanks to its mayonnaise base and the addition of ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice. Its thinner, dressing-like consistency sets it apart from the thicker textures commonly found in many barbecue sauces. This unique quality makes it an ideal dressing for coleslaw, especially if you want to introduce a bit of zest to your dish.

The sharpness of Alabama white BBQ sauce complements the natural sweetness of cabbage and carrots, while its creaminess keeps the coleslaw rich and satisfying. For those who love to experiment with flavors, Alabama white sauce can also be mixed with other ingredients—such as honey mustard—to introduce a hint of sweetness to the tangy profile.

Swap out and add ingredients to your coleslaw to create a fun twist

Preparing this style of coleslaw can be as simple as grabbing a bag of slaw mix from the produce section and mixing in some Alabama white BBQ sauce. Alternatively, you can enhance this traditional dish by incorporating additional ingredients. Consider your coleslaw a blank slate—it's highly adaptable to match your taste preferences or to complement your meal. For extra texture and flavor, think about adding diced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet touch. Toasted or candied nuts, such as pecans or almonds, can introduce even more crunch. If you want to spice things up, include julienned jalapeños or a dash of sriracha, or boost the nutritional value with shaved Brussels sprouts or broccoli.

For a fresher taste, mix in some herbs like cilantro or dill to elevate the dish. You can also play around with various types of cabbage—like red cabbage or napa cabbage—to bring in color and diversity. And why not toss in some sweet corn if that appeals to you?