The World of Ribs : The Great Rib Side Dish--Coleslaw

Readers often write in asking for the coleslaw recipe from the North Woods Inn. We’ve tried, but have never been able to get anyone from North Woods to part with the recipe. This is a facsimile of the North Woods’ slaw. A reader recently suggested we add a bit of paprika, hot red pepper or chili powder to the dressing for a taste closer to the original. See what you think.

PRETENDING-TO-BE RED CABBAGE SLAW FROM NORTH WOODS INN

1/2 head red cabbage

1/2 cup oil

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

3 tablespoons sugar

4 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon seasoned salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika, red pepper or chili powder

Shred cabbage so it is irregular, with some fine and some coarse shreds. Place in bowl with oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, seasoned salt, pepper, onion powder and paprika. Mix well.

Let stand several hours or overnight to allow flavors to mellow and slaw to achieve deep-red color. Makes 6 to 8 servings.