Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw Recipe

Bright colors, bold crunch, and fragrant herbs come together in this copycat Cafe Lulu Asian slaw recipe, bringing restaurant-style freshness right to your table.

Crisp cabbage, vibrant veggies, and a tangy-sweet Asian slaw dressing turn simple ingredients into a standout side dish packed with personality. Perfect for summer cookouts, weekly meal prep, or any meal that needs a refreshing lift, this version captures everything people love about Cafe Lulu’s famous slaw.

Thai basil, mint, and toasted peanuts add layers of aroma and texture that feel irresistible with every bite. One bowl delivers balance, brightness, and a flavor experience guests can’t stop talking about.

What Does It Taste Like?

The Cafe Lulu asian slaw delivers a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. The dressing strikes a perfect balance between tangy rice vinegar, savory soy sauce, nutty sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness from agave nectar.

Fresh Thai basil and mint provide aromatic, cooling notes that complement the mild heat from Thai chilies and red peppers. The toasted peanuts add rich, roasted depth while sesame seeds contribute subtle nuttiness.

Crisp cabbage and carrots provide satisfying crunch, while bean sprouts bring a delicate, fresh element. It’s bright, herbaceous, slightly spicy, and utterly refreshing.

Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw Ingredients

For the Slaw:

• ¼ large head green cabbage, thinly shredded
• ¼–½ head red (purple) cabbage, thinly shredded
• 2–3 medium carrots, julienned or thinly shredded
• 1–2 red long hot peppers (mildly spicy), diagonally sliced
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or torn
• 3–4 green onions (green parts preferred), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1–2 cups bean sprouts
• ½–¾ cup peanuts, toasted
• 2–3 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted or raw)

For the Simple Asian Slaw Dressing:

• 6 tbsp light soy sauce
• 6 tbsp rice wine vinegar (or mirin)
• 1½ tbsp vegan fish sauce (optional)
• 4 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 3 tbsp agave nectar (or any liquid sweetener)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped

Optional Toppings:

• Crispy fried shallots
• Crispy fried garlic
• Extra toasted peanuts and sesame seeds

Kitchen Utensils You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp chef’s knife or mandoline slicer
• Cutting board
• Dry skillet or pan (for toasting peanuts)
• Mason jar or bottle with lid (for dressing)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Vegetable peeler (for carrots)
• Salad tongs or serving spoons

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (toasting peanuts)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings

How to Make Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Peanuts Place peanuts in a dry pan over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat immediately and set aside to cool. This step enhances the nutty flavor that makes this asian slaw recipe so distinctive.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Thinly shred both green and red cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Aim for thin, uniform strips about ⅛-inch wide. The combination of both cabbages creates beautiful color contrast and varied texture in your Cafe Lulu asian slaw.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables Julienne or thinly shred the carrots into matchstick-sized pieces. Diagonally slice the red hot peppers for visual appeal and even distribution of heat. Rinse bean sprouts in cold water and drain thoroughly.

Step 4: Prepare Fresh Herbs Remove Thai basil and mint leaves from their stems. Roughly chop or gently tear the leaves this releases their aromatic oils. Slice green onions into 1-inch pieces, using primarily the green parts for milder flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Slaw Base Add all prepared vegetables, bean sprouts, cooled toasted peanuts, and sesame seeds to a large mixing bowl. Don’t toss yet wait for the dressing.

Step 6: Make the Simple Asian Slaw Dressing Finely chop Thai bird’s eye chilies. In a mason jar, combine light soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, vegan fish sauce (if using), sesame oil, fresh lime juice, agave nectar, garlic powder, and chopped chilies. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until completely emulsified.

Step 7: Dress and Toss the Slaw Pour approximately half the dressing over the slaw ingredients. Using your hands or salad tongs, gently toss from the bottom up, ensuring every ingredient gets coated. The vegetables will slightly wilt and reduce in volume this is perfectly normal and helps the flavors meld.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning and Serve Taste your copycat Cafe Lulu asian slaw recipe and adjust as needed. Add more dressing, lime juice for brightness, or agave for sweetness. Top with crispy fried shallots, fried garlic, and extra peanuts just before serving for maximum crunch.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Your Asian Slaw

1. Protein-Packed Meal Bowl: Transform your Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw into a complete protein-packed meal. Top it with grilled chicken, seared tofu, tempeh, or marinated shrimp for a healthy and flavorful bowl. Layer it over steamed rice or noodles Roasted Hainan Chicken Rice or Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice work perfectly. The crisp slaw balances rich, warm proteins like J Gumbo’s Voodoo Chicken, making every bite satisfying and nutritious.

Pro tip: Drizzle extra slaw dressing and add sesame seeds for enhanced flavor and texture.

2. Taco Tuesday Twist: Elevate taco night by using this Asian Slaw Recipe as a topping for fish tacos, Korean BBQ tacos, or banh mi-inspired tacos. The fresh, tangy crunch cuts through fatty or fried meats beautifully. For a complete meal, serve alongside Jack in the Box Egg Rolls or a small bowl of LongHorn Steakhouse Potato Soup. Thai basil, mint, and cilantro in the slaw bring an herbaceous lift to your tacos, creating a fusion of flavors your family and friends will love.

3. Summer BBQ Side Dish: Hosting a cookout? Asian slaw is the perfect companion for grilled meats, burgers, or barbecued ribs. Its refreshing, tangy flavor is a lighter alternative to creamy coleslaws and complements smoky, charred proteins perfectly. Try it with Korean-style short ribs, teriyaki chicken, or crispy Chicago Tribune Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Serving tip: Keep the slaw chilled until just before serving to maintain its crunch and freshness.

4. Banh Mi Sandwich Filling: Bring authentic Vietnamese flavors to your kitchen by layering Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw inside crusty baguettes with pâté, cold cuts, or grilled pork. The pickled vegetables and fresh herbs in the slaw add crunch and brightness. Pair with Roasted Hainan Chicken Rice or Jack in the Box Egg Rolls to make a full, flavorful meal. Add sriracha mayo and cucumber slices for that classic banh mi taste.

5. Spring Roll Companion: Use the slaw as a side dish or filling for fresh spring rolls. Wrap it with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, or tofu inside rice paper. The slaw’s tangy dressing doubles as a dipping sauce, and it pairs beautifully with LongHorn Steakhouse Potato Soup or Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice for a creative appetizer or light lunch.

Pro tip: Garnish with crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.

6. Poke Bowl Base: Asian slaw also works wonderfully as a base for poke bowls featuring raw tuna, salmon, or marinated mushrooms. Its crisp texture contrasts perfectly with silky fish, and the fresh flavors enhance your bowl. Add avocado, edamame, and pickled ginger, and pair with J Gumbo’s Voodoo Chicken or Roasted Hainan Chicken Rice for a complete, protein-rich meal.

7. Noodle Salad Addition: Toss your Asian Slaw Recipe with chilled soba noodles, rice noodles, or ramen for a refreshing cold noodle salad. Add extra sesame oil, a splash of the dressing, and top with soft-boiled eggs. For more filling options, serve alongside Chicago Tribune Kentucky Fried Chicken or Egg Rolls. This combination makes a perfect light lunch or dinner for hot-weather days.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw

1. Slice Vegetables Paper-Thin The key to authentic Cafe Lulu asian slaw texture is ultra-thin vegetables. Invest in a good mandoline slicer or sharpen your knife skills. Thin slices wilt just enough when dressed, creating that perfect tender-crisp texture. Thick chunks stay too crunchy and don’t absorb the dressing properly, resulting in uneven flavor distribution.

2. Don’t Skip Toasting the Peanuts Raw peanuts lack the depth of flavor that makes this copycat Cafe Lulu asian slaw recipe special. Toasting intensifies their nutty richness and adds a subtle roasted note that complements the sesame oil. Watch them carefully they can burn quickly. Once they’re golden and fragrant, immediately transfer to a cool plate.

3. Massage the Cabbage (Optional) For a softer texture, lightly massage the shredded cabbage with a pinch of salt for 2-3 minutes before adding other ingredients. This technique breaks down cell walls slightly, making the slaw more tender and helping it absorb more dressing. Rinse off excess salt if you’re watching sodium intake.

4. Make Dressing Ahead for Deeper Flavor The simple asian slaw dressing actually improves when made several hours or even a day in advance. The garlic powder rehydrates, the chilies infuse their heat throughout, and all flavors meld beautifully. Store in the refrigerator and shake well before using. This recipe makes extra intentionally use half for the slaw and save the rest for future salads or as a marinade.

5. Add Dressing Gradually Start with half the dressing and add more only if needed. Overdressed slaw becomes soggy and loses its signature crunch. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away. For meal prep or picnics, keep dressing separate until just before serving to maintain maximum crispness.

6. Keep Fresh Herbs Whole Until Last Minute Thai basil and mint oxidize and darken quickly once chopped. For the freshest flavor and brightest color, tear or chop herbs just before assembling your asian slaw recipe. If prepping ahead, keep whole leaves wrapped in damp paper towels in the refrigerator and add them right before serving.

7. Adjust Heat Level to Your Preference Thai bird’s eye chilies pack serious heat. Start with one chili in the dressing, taste, and add more if desired. For milder slaw, remove chili seeds and membranes where most capsaicin resides. For extra heat, add thinly sliced fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil just before serving. Remember, you can always add spice, but you can’t remove it.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store undressed Cafe Lulu asian slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the simple asian slaw dressing separate in a sealed jar for up to 1 week. Once dressed, consume within 24 hours for best texture. Add crispy toppings immediately before serving. No reheating necessary this salad is always served cold.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Cafe Lulu Asian Slaw Recipe that people often ask.

Can I make this copycat Cafe Lulu asian slaw recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep all vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers up to 2 days ahead. Make the dressing up to a week in advance. Combine everything just before serving for maximum crunch. If you need to dress it early, do so no more than 2-3 hours ahead and keep refrigerated.

What can I substitute for Thai basil in this asian slaw recipe?

Regular Italian basil works in a pinch, though it has a sweeter, less anise-like flavor. For closer authenticity, try a combination of regular basil with a small amount of fresh tarragon or fennel fronds. Cilantro also works beautifully if you’re a fan, adding a different but equally fresh dimension to the slaw.

Is the vegan fish sauce necessary for authentic flavor?

While the vegan fish sauce adds umami depth that brings the Cafe Lulu asian slaw closer to restaurant quality, it’s not absolutely essential. If you skip it, add an extra tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of miso paste dissolved in the dressing for similar savory complexity. Traditional fish sauce works too if you’re not keeping it vegan.

How do I make the simple asian slaw dressing less spicy?

Reduce or completely omit the Thai bird’s eye chilies from the dressing. You can also substitute milder peppers like Fresno chilies or even bell peppers for color without heat. Another option is to add an extra tablespoon of agave nectar or a splash of coconut milk to mellow the spice level.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for convenience?

While pre-shredded cabbage saves time, it’s typically cut too thick and often contains preservatives that affect texture. If you must use it, choose the finest shred available and supplement with extra julienned carrots. The authentic Cafe Lulu asian slaw experience really comes from properly thin-sliced vegetables, so hand-cutting is worth the effort.

What’s the best way to julienne carrots for this recipe?

Use a julienne peeler, mandoline with julienne blade, or a sharp knife. If using a knife, cut carrots into 2-3 inch segments, slice lengthwise into thin planks, then stack and cut into thin matchsticks. A food processor with a shredding disc also works but produces slightly shorter pieces. Consistency matters more than perfection.

How can I make this asian slaw recipe more filling as a main dish?

Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame. Include cooked and cooled rice noodles, soba noodles, or quinoa for substance. You can also add sliced avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or extra nuts and seeds. These additions transform the slaw from a side dish into a satisfying complete meal.

Why is my slaw watery after dressing it?

Cabbage releases water when salt from the soy sauce breaks down cell walls. This is normal but can be minimized by thoroughly draining washed vegetables and not overdressing. If preparing ahead, dress only the portion you’ll serve immediately. Pat vegetables dry with paper towels before combining if they seem particularly wet.

Can I substitute rice wine vinegar in the dressing?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even fresh lime juice can replace rice wine vinegar. Each brings slightly different flavor apple cider adds fruity notes, white wine is sharper, and lime juice increases citrus brightness. Mirin (as mentioned) works wonderfully if you want added sweetness alongside acidity.

What are crispy fried shallots and where do I find them?

Crispy fried shallots are thinly sliced shallots fried until golden and crunchy. Find them in the Asian aisle of most supermarkets, often labeled as “fried red onions” or “crispy shallots.” You can also make them at home by thinly slicing shallots and frying in oil until golden brown. They add incredible texture and sweet onion flavor to your Cafe Lulu asian slaw.

How long does the homemade asian slaw dressing last?

The simple asian slaw dressing keeps refrigerated for up to 1 week in a sealed container. The flavors actually improve after a day as ingredients meld together. Shake well before each use as ingredients may separate. If you used fresh lime juice, the dressing is best within 3-4 days for optimal citrus brightness.

Can I make this slaw without peanuts for allergy concerns?

Absolutely! Substitute toasted cashews, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for similar crunch and richness. Crispy fried chickpeas also work wonderfully. Each alternative brings slightly different flavor but maintains the textural contrast that makes this copycat Cafe Lulu asian slaw recipe so satisfying. Increase sesame seeds if omitting nuts entirely.

This copycat Cafe Lulu asian slaw recipe brings restaurant-quality freshness and flavor to your home kitchen with simple, accessible ingredients. The combination of crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and that irresistible simple asian slaw dressing creates something truly special.

Whether you’re serving it as a vibrant side dish, using it to top tacos and bowls, or enjoying it as a light meal, this asian slaw delivers every single time.

Now that you know how to make Cafe Lulu asian slaw, you’ll find yourself craving these bright, crunchy flavors again and again!

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