Jamaican Mango Slaw
Highlighted under: Fusion Planning
When it comes to brightening up a meal, I absolutely love making Jamaican Mango Slaw. This vibrant dish combines juicy mango slices with crisp cabbage and a zesty dressing, creating a refreshing side that elevates any barbecue or picnic. I’ve experimented with different fruit and vegetable combinations, but there’s something special about the sweet, tangy flavors that just pop in this recipe. It's easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy days when I crave something delicious yet effortless.
Making Jamaican Mango Slaw has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The harmony of sweet mango, crunchy cabbage, and a tangy dressing brings a burst of flavor that complements any meal. I've tried adding different ingredients like bell peppers and carrots, but I always return to the classic combination that celebrates the essence of Jamaican cuisine.
During one hot summer day, I served this slaw at a family gathering, and it was a hit! The key is to let it sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Exotic flavor profile that transports you to the Caribbean
- Fresh ingredients that add vibrant color and crunch
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory for any occasion
Elevating Your Slaw Experience
To truly maximize the freshness of your Jamaican Mango Slaw, it’s essential to choose ripe mangoes. They should yield slightly to pressure, indicating that they're perfectly sweet. Overripe mangoes can become mushy, so be mindful of their firmness when selecting. If fresh mangoes aren’t available, you can opt for frozen mango that’s been thawed, but keep in mind it may not have the same texture as fresh ones.
When preparing the vegetables, it's important to ensure they are cut evenly. This uniformity not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures in every bite. You can use a mandoline for the cabbage and carrots to achieve consistent shreds, making your slaw not only taste better but look professionally made.
Dressing Techniques
The dressing for this slaw is key to balancing the sweetness of the mango with the savory elements of the other ingredients. Adjust the lime juice based on your taste preference; adding more will give a zesty punch, while less can yield a milder flavor. Always taste before serving, and don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt or a drizzle of honey if you feel it’s necessary to achieve your ideal flavor profile.
If you prefer a creamier slaw, you can substitute the olive oil with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed into the dressing. This will give your slaw a richer texture while still maintaining that tropical flavor. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for extra zest.
Ingredients
Jamaican Mango Slaw Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced red onion. Toss together to blend the colors and textures.
Add the Mango
Gently fold in the diced mango and chopped cilantro, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Let it sit for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño. You can also substitute the mango with pineapple for a different tropical twist.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This slaw can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. Mixing the slaw too early can lead to soggy vegetables, losing that delightful crunch characteristic of a great slaw.
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days for optimal freshness, as the mango and cabbage begin to lose their texture over time. You can revive the slaw by giving it a quick toss before serving, or adding a touch more lime juice to brighten it up.
Serving Suggestions
Jamaican Mango Slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially jerk chicken or fish tacos, enhancing the meal with its tropical flair. To create a complete meal, serve it on a bed of quinoa or rice, topped with avocado slices to add richness and further complement the slaw’s flavors.
For a party or gathering, consider using the slaw as a filling in wraps or tacos. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors can transform plain sandwiches into a taste sensation, impressing your guests without the need for elaborate preparations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
→ What can I serve with Jamaican Mango Slaw?
This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a refreshing side for summer gatherings.
→ Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fruits like pineapple, papaya, or even apples for a different flavor.
→ Is this slaw vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly. Just ensure to use a substitute for honey if necessary.
Jamaican Mango Slaw
When it comes to brightening up a meal, I absolutely love making Jamaican Mango Slaw. This vibrant dish combines juicy mango slices with crisp cabbage and a zesty dressing, creating a refreshing side that elevates any barbecue or picnic. I’ve experimented with different fruit and vegetable combinations, but there’s something special about the sweet, tangy flavors that just pop in this recipe. It's easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy days when I crave something delicious yet effortless.
Created by: Violet Kingsley
Recipe Type: Fusion Planning
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Jamaican Mango Slaw Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced red onion. Toss together to blend the colors and textures.
Gently fold in the diced mango and chopped cilantro, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Let it sit for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño. You can also substitute the mango with pineapple for a different tropical twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g