Does Salting Coleslaw Make It Watery? (2024)

Nothing will rain on your picnic or barbeque quite like realizing the big batch of coleslaw you made turned wilted and watery in the fridge. You know the culprit: salt. But coleslaw relies on salt for flavor. Not to mention, your recipe probably calls for it.

There's actually an easy answer to this coleslaw conundrum. Read on to learn how to salt your slaw to keep the cabbage crisp and the dressing creamy.

Salting Cabbage for Coleslaw

Salting the cabbage should be step one of any coleslaw recipe. With the shredded cabbage in a colander, mix in a tablespoon of salt per head of cabbage till it's evenly distributed. The salt will draw out excess water from cabbage while helping preserve the crispiness.

After letting it sit for an hour or two, rinse it with water to remove the salt. Drain and dry the cabbage with paper towels, gently pressing to release excess water. Repeat with more paper towels as the water is absorbed.

This method of salting leaves cabbage crisp but more pliable; it's easier to chew. It also mellows the cruciferous veggie's bitter flavor. Continue on with your coleslaw recipe, and soon, everyone will be asking for your secret.

Will Soaking in Cold Water Help?

Skip the cold water method. You want to remove water from the cabbage before it dilutes your dressing. Similar to blanching, plunging shredded cabbage in ice water plumps it up, which preserves its crunch and firm shape. When you add salt, however, you'll end up with the same result: a pool of water at the bottom of the bowl.

Can I Save Watery Coleslaw?

If you've got a wet batch of slaw on your hands, things may be too far gone, but don't give up hope just yet. Consider these things first before you dump your dish.

If the cabbage itself is soggy, the texture may be unappealing served as a side. Try it instead as a condiment on sandwiches. If the mixture is just watery but the cabbage is still crisp, try draining off the excess water. If it rinses away much of your dressing, make a half batch more, and stir it back in a little at a time until you get the consistency just right.

Related:

• When You Add Salt During Cooking Matters — Here's Why
• Make Three Healthy Slaws From One Basic Recipe
• See our entire collection of Coleslaw Recipes.