Simply Wanderfull
Do you have a good homemade coleslaw recipe? If not, this could be your new go-to recipe! Are you looking for a restaurant style coleslaw recipe that is easy to make at home with simple ingredients, well keep on reading! This coleslaw recipe is made with cabbage, carrots, parsley and a simple coleslaw dressing that is so tasty and unique – it is so good.
So what does TBQ stand for? If you are from my hometown of Windsor, Ontario you will likely know this answer, it stands for: The Tunnel BBQ restaurant.
Tunnel Bar-B-Q, a Windsor landmark, opened its doors in 1941 near the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, becoming an iconic establishment at the Canada-US border. The Racovitis family, the founders of Tunnel Bar-B-Q, relied on cherished family recipes passed down through generations to serve authentic, uncomplicated, yet delightful dishes for years, capturing the essence of their culinary heritage.
For nearly 73 years, it served as a culinary destination, famous for its ribs and chicken, and oh my gosh the best cakes that you have ever tasted attracting patrons from both sides of the border. The restaurant’s location near the tunnel made it a convenient stop for traveler’s and locals alike, symbolizing the close ties between Windsor and Detroit.
The restaurant’s proximity to the second-busiest crossing between the United States and Canada highlighted its role in cross-border culture and commerce. Although the original establishment closed in 2014 to make way for a University of Windsor expansion, its legacy continues today with Tommy’s BBQ restaurant located in the South of Windsor where you can still get a taste of their delicious ribs, coleslaw, cakes, sauces and more.
The Tunnel BBQ not only served up some great ribs and slaw but they also made a rib sauce that is outstanding. If you want a homemade version of their sauce, check out my mom’s recipe for Grandma’s Ultimate BBQ Sauce Recipe. Everyone LOVES this sauce. Here are some ways to use the sauce: marinate ribs, great on steaks, burgers, chicken, potatoes and more! So now lets talk more about the slaw!
What pairs well With coleslaw?
Coleslaw is always an easy side dish that goes well with just about everything! I love to pair up the coleslaw with some Speedy Clubhouse Sandwiches or my Ultimate Russian Dressing For A Classic Reuben Sandwich. For a really tasty Reuben, try putting the coleslaw on top of your Reuben for the ultimate tasty sandwich. Its so darn good! I picked this idea up when I worked at Elias Delicatessen in Windsor, Ontario which was another famous restaurant in Windsor and know for Louie the owner, and his famous Corned Beef and Pastrami sandwiches.
TBQ Coleslaw secret:
This recipe for TBQ Coleslaw has a unique flavour. There are 2 secrets to making this dressing: shredding an onion and adding dried mint! Yes, mint! The addition of both these ingredients creates a fresh and bold flavour. You can either purchase the TBQ Coleslaw Spice Blend or opt for my homemade alternative, which is a knock-off version of the original TBQ coleslaw.
TBQ style Coleslaw REcipe
- 1 large green cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 small sweet onion, shredded
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2-1/2 tbsp. vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1 tbsp. dried mint
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 clove garlic, minced or 1 tsp. granulated garlic
- 1 tsp. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- 1/2 cup Canola oil
- 1 tbsp. sugar
- 2 tbsp. water (optional: to thin it out)
Instructions:
Shred the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage, carrot, and Parsley. Sprinkle with pepper.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a bowl, mix the shredded onion, vinegar, salt, mint, garlic, onion powder, seasoned salt, salt, pepper, sugar, and oil.
Combine the Slaw and Dressing:
Place the shredded cabbage, carrot, and onion in a large bowl.
Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss until they are evenly coated. Add water to loosen a bit if necessary.
Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
Serve chilled
Let's Make It Together!
TBQ Style Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage shredded
- 1/4 small sweet onion shredded
- 1 large carrot shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 2-1/2 tbsp. vinegar white or apple cider
- 1 tbsp. dried mint
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 clove garlic minced or 1 tsp. granulated garlic
- 1 tsp. Lawry's Seasoned Salt
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- 1/2 cup Canola oil
- 1 tbsp. sugar
- 2 tbsp. water optional: to thin it out
Instructions
- Shred the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage, carrot, and Parsley. Sprinkle with pepper.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded onion, vinegar, salt, mint, garlic, onion powder, seasoned salt, salt, pepper, sugar, and oil.
- Place the shredded cabbage, carrot, and onion in a large bowl.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss until they are evenly coated. Add a little bit of water if necessary.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
Enjoy The Coleslaw!
As you enjoy this delicious TBQ Coleslaw, remember the rich history behind it. We hope you’ve enjoyed this culinary journey and the glimpse into the story of a place that once brought people together across borders. Savour each bite and let the memories of this Windsor gem linger! Thank you for taking the time to read my blog article. I would love to hear from you. If you have any questions or comments let me know. Happy Cooking!