The Recipe Spot
Independence Day Coleslaw
At the ripe old age of 237, Happy Birthday, America!
Also known as Independence Day, next Thursday, July 4, America celebrates its independence from the ‘Mother Country,’ laying claim to be a free and independent nation.
Celebrating the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, which was signed on July 4, 1776, the historic document set America free from the iron-grip that the British Empire had on the colonists.
The ruckus between the 13 English colonies situated on the Atlantic coast of North America in which the British Empire permanently settled and England, had been brewing since the 1700s when the British Parliament passed several laws limiting many freedoms of the English colonists.
With burgeoning frustration by the power grab of the British Empire to legislate laws, the first Continental Congress was formed in 1774 in Philadelphia in order to serve as representation of the colonists.
After several complaints to King George III went ignored, the Continental Congress decided that documentation was necessary to declare independence in order to create a nation of freedom from the British Empire.
Going rogue, the Continental Congress declared America a new and independent nation by adopting the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which was largely written by America’s third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. Signed by 56 congressional delegates, the committee responsible for drafting the document included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Robert R. Livingston and Roger Sherman.
In a new nation with liberty and justice as its cornerstone, Philadelphia held the first annual commemoration of independence in 1777 and in 1870, the U.S. Congress declared July 4th a federal holiday.
As a symbol of patriotism throughout America that is deeply rooted in political freedom, it’s the time of year where displays of red, white and blue are out in full force for the celebration.
Events and celebrations surrounding the holiday typically include barbeques, picnics, parades, and fireworks displays that are often accompanied by patriotic songs.
So whether your plans include a parade, a picnic, a fireworks display, or other private or public events celebrating our nation’s history, it’s important to remember the significance of the holiday.
Shining a spotlight on the holiday, what better way to say ‘Happy Birthday America’ than with a traditional side dish of coleslaw, which is a perfect accompaniment to your barbeque or picnic poised to steal the show.
Independence Day Coleslaw
3 to 4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
¼ cup cider vinegar
1 to 2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large salad bowl toss the green, red cabbages and carrots. In a small mixing bowl wish together the remaining ingredients. Pour over cabbage mixture and toss well. Chill for at least 2 to 3 hours before serving.
Serves 6-8
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