Absolutely BEST Hot Slaw Recipe: A Cincinnati Classic Reborn

The aroma of hot, vinegary dressing mingling with crispy bacon… it’s a scent that instantly transports me back to summer picnics in Cincinnati. As a child, no family gathering was complete without a bowl of hot slaw, a local delicacy that always seemed to disappear in minutes. This wasn’t just any slaw; it was the legendary hot slaw from Forest View Gardens, a now-defunct landmark that held a special place in our city’s culinary heart. Thankfully, the treasured recipe lives on, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Servings: 32
• Dietary Type: Not specified (Contains meat and dairy)

Ingredients

• 6 lbs shredded cabbage
• 8 lbs bacon

Dressing:

• 24 ounces water
• 32 ounces vegetable oil
• 44 ounces white vinegar
• 4 cups sugar
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Food processor (optional, but highly recommended)
• Strainer
• Large mouth gallon container
• Large mixing spoon
• Stove or steam table
• Salad bowls

Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly cooking the bacon. You can use your preferred method—baking, frying, or even air frying—until it’s crispy and rendered of most of its fat. The key is to achieve a delightful crunch that will complement the tenderness of the cabbage.
2. While the bacon is still hot, transfer it in batches to a food processor (if you have one). Pulse until the bacon is coarsely chopped into bacon bits. If you don’t have a food processor, fear not! Simply chop the bacon finely by hand before cooking.
3. Place the freshly chopped, hot bacon bits in a strainer set over a bowl. This allows any excess grease to drain, ensuring your slaw isn’t overly oily. Set the strained bacon bits aside.
4. Now, it’s time to prepare the dressing. Grab a gallon container with a wide mouth. This will make mixing much easier.
5. Add the following ingredients to the container in this order: sugar, white vinegar, water, vegetable oil, salt, and chopped fresh garlic.
6. Using a large mixing spoon, vigorously stir the mixture. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the container to dissolve all the sugar. The dressing should be well combined and emulsified.
7. Next, heat the amount of dressing you plan to use for immediate serving on the stove over low heat or on a steam table. Be careful not to let it boil. You’ll want the dressing to be warm, not scalding, when it’s added to the slaw. Aim for approximately 4-6 ounces of dressing per serving.
8. Fill individual salad bowls with the shredded cabbage. The amount of cabbage will depend on your preference, but typically, a generous portion is best.
9. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the fresh bacon bits over the cabbage in each bowl. At this stage, the bowls can be covered and refrigerated until you are ready to serve the slaw. This keeps the cabbage crisp and prevents the bacon from becoming soggy.
10. Just before serving, give the hot dressing a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed. Then, using a ladle, pour approximately 4-6 ounces of the warm dressing over each bowl of slaw. Be sure to thoroughly coat all the cabbage and bacon bits, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Bacon is King: Don’t skimp on the bacon! The quality and flavor of the bacon will significantly impact the final result. Choose a thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
• Dressing Temperature: Heating the dressing is crucial for achieving the “hot” in hot slaw. However, be careful not to boil it, as this can alter the flavor and consistency. A gentle warming is all that’s needed.
• Freshness Matters: This slaw is best served fresh. Avoid letting the dressed slaw sit for extended periods, as the cabbage will wilt and the dressing may become diluted.
• Garlic Intensity: If you’re not a huge fan of garlic, you can reduce the amount of chopped fresh garlic. However, the garlic adds a crucial layer of flavor to the dressing, so don’t eliminate it entirely.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this hot slaw immediately after dressing for the best flavor and texture. The contrast between the warm dressing and the crisp cabbage is what makes this dish so special.

Leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, once the slaw has been dressed, it’s best to consume it immediately. The cabbage will become soggy if left to sit.

This dish is not suitable for freezing.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	898 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	79.5 g	122%
Saturated Fat	20.7 g	103%
Cholesterol	77.1 mg	25%
Sodium	1399.1 mg	58%
Total Carbohydrate	31.4 g	10%
Dietary Fiber	2.2 g	8%
Sugars	27.9 g	N/A
Protein	14.3 g	28%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy twist.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to your liking. Some prefer a tangier slaw, while others prefer a sweeter one.
• Bacon Alternatives: While bacon is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other smoked meats, such as ham or pancetta.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a vegetarian version. You may also want to add a touch of liquid smoke to the dressing for a smoky flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Be sure to stir it well before using.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A: Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage is a convenient time-saver. Just be sure to choose a high-quality product that is fresh and crisp.

Q: How do I prevent the slaw from becoming soggy?
A: The key is to dress the slaw just before serving. This prevents the cabbage from wilting and ensures the best texture.

Q: Can I adjust the amount of garlic in the dressing?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. Start with less and add more to taste.

Q: What can I serve with hot slaw?
A: Hot slaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and even BBQ.

Final Thoughts

This hot slaw recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a taste of Cincinnati history and a cherished family tradition. It is a flavorful and unique dish that is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own signature version. And most importantly, enjoy the process and share this delicious slaw with friends and family. Bon appétit!