Jamaican Mango Slaw
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
I absolutely love making Jamaican Mango Slaw during the warmer months when fresh mangoes are in season. It's a deliciously zesty dish that perfectly complements grilled meats and adds a vibrant touch to any meal. This slaw combines bright, crunchy vegetables with the sweet and tangy flavor of ripe mango, creating a refreshing salad that dances on your taste buds. Whether served at a barbecue or as a side for a picnic, it never fails to impress. It’s a colorful addition that brings a burst of tropical flavor to my table.
When I first tried Jamaican Mango Slaw, I was captivated by its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The vibrant colors entice the eye, making it an impressive side dish for my family gatherings. I found that using a perfectly ripe mango is crucial for that distinct sweetness, and the crunch from the cabbage adds a delightful contrast. I also like to add a splash of lime juice for an extra zing!
After experimenting with different ingredients, I've learned that a bit of diced red onion adds a sharp bite that complements the sweetness of the mango. Tossing everything together in a simple vinaigrette ensures the flavors meld beautifully without overpowering the fresh vegetables. I often make a large batch, as it keeps well and is even better the next day!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect combination of sweet mango and crunchy veggies.
- A refreshing side dish that pairs well with any grilled meats.
- Easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for summer gatherings.
Choosing the Right Mango
When selecting mangoes for this slaw, look for ripe, fragrant fruits with slightly soft flesh. Varieties like Haden or Tommy Atkins are great for their sweetness and vibrant color. If you pick mangoes that are too firm, they may not add the desired sweetness to the salad. To ripen mangoes, simply place them in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days until they yield slightly to gentle pressure.
Additionally, consider the quality of the mango. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness. The sweetness of the mango balances beautifully with the acidity from the lime, so it’s essential to choose fruit that’s fully ripe for the best flavor experience.
Customizing Your Slaw
Feel free to customize this mango slaw to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a spicier kick, adding finely chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. If you prefer a milder version, simply omit these ingredients. Adding other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes can add more color and texture without compromising the original flavor.
For those who are sensitive to cilantro, fresh mint or parsley can be substituted, providing a fresh, aromatic alternative. The beauty of this slaw lies in its versatility, allowing you to create your own signature twist while maintaining the essential freshness of the ingredients.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you're prepping ahead of time, store the slaw and the dressing separately to keep the vegetables crisp. The slaw can be assembled and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but I recommend waiting to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent sogginess. Once dressed, the slaw is best enjoyed within a few hours for optimal texture and flavor.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Note that the mango may soften further, but the flavors will continue to meld, providing a different yet enjoyable eating experience. For a refreshing lunch the next day, consider adding leftover slaw to a wrap or as a topping for grilled fish.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious slaw:
Jamaican Mango Slaw Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix these ingredients for a colorful and tasty slaw!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your slaw:
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped red onion.
Add the Mango
Gently fold in the diced mango and chopped cilantro into the vegetable mixture.
Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Your delicious Jamaican Mango Slaw is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added texture, consider adding some toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts. You can also adapt the recipe to include your favorite ingredients, like bell peppers or jalapeños, for a spicy twist.
Enhancing Flavor with Dressing
The dressing for this slaw, made from lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, is crucial for tying all the flavors together. Fresh lime juice provides a bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the mango, balancing the overall dish. Ensure you whisk the ingredients thoroughly until they are well blended; a smooth dressing can elevate the dish significantly.
If you want to experiment with the flavor, consider adding a touch of honey or agave syrup for added sweetness or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangier profile. The key is to taste as you go; a quick dip of the slaw before serving can help you gauge if it needs extra seasoning or acid.
Serving Suggestions
This Jamaican Mango Slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, adding a bright contrast to the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken or jerk pork. For a heartier dish, serve it alongside fish tacos or even grilled shrimp for a tropical twist. Consider using it as a topping for sandwiches or burgers to bring a refreshing crunch.
For an impressive presentation at gatherings, consider layering the slaw in a large glass bowl, showcasing the vibrant colors of the cabbages, mango, and cilantro. Adding sliced avocado or toasted coconut on top can provide additional texture and visual appeal, making it a centerpiece of any dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. It will keep well for about 24 hours.
→ What can I serve this slaw with?
Jamaican Mango Slaw pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for tacos.
→ Can I use frozen mango for this recipe?
Fresh mango is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you don't have fresh mango, frozen mango can work if thawed and drained well.
→ How can I make this slaw spicier?
To spice things up, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Jamaican Mango Slaw
I absolutely love making Jamaican Mango Slaw during the warmer months when fresh mangoes are in season. It's a deliciously zesty dish that perfectly complements grilled meats and adds a vibrant touch to any meal. This slaw combines bright, crunchy vegetables with the sweet and tangy flavor of ripe mango, creating a refreshing salad that dances on your taste buds. Whether served at a barbecue or as a side for a picnic, it never fails to impress. It’s a colorful addition that brings a burst of tropical flavor to my table.
What You'll Need
Jamaican Mango Slaw Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped red onion.
Gently fold in the diced mango and chopped cilantro into the vegetable mixture.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the mango and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Extra Tips
- For added texture, consider adding some toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts. You can also adapt the recipe to include your favorite ingredients, like bell peppers or jalapeños, for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g