Growing up in a Mexican-American household, Mexican coleslaw was always a staple at our family gatherings. Mami would whip up a big batch of this tangy, crunchy slaw, and it never failed to be the star of the show. The perfect balance of crisp cabbage, zesty lime, and a hint of heat from jalapeños – it was the ideal accompaniment to our spicy chicken tacos or grilled carne asada.
I can still remember the way the flavors would explode in my mouth, with the coolness of the cabbage mingling with the bright, citrusy dressing. And the best part? Mami’s secret ingredient – a sprinkle of crushed Takis on top, adding an addictive crunch that had us going back for seconds (and thirds!). Mexican coleslaw was more than just a side dish in our house – it was a taste of home, a connection to our heritage, and a reason to gather around the table and share stories.
Nowadays, I find myself craving that same flavor explosion, that sense of nostalgia and comfort. That’s why I’m so excited to share my tried-and-true Mexican coleslaw recipe with you. This isn’t just any old slaw – it’s a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s going to become your new go-to.
Why This Mexican Coleslaw Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
What sets this Mexican coleslaw recipe apart is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and just a touch of heat. The secret lies in the dressing, which combines fresh lime juice, zesty Dijon mustard, and a kiss of honey to create a flavor profile that’s both bright and complex. And the addition of crisp jicama and juicy mango takes the texture and taste to the next level, making this slaw a true delight for the senses.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Cabbage: A mix of green and red cabbage for maximum crunch and color.
– Jicama: Adds a refreshing, slightly sweet crunch to the slaw.
– Mango: Juicy, sweet mango chunks complement the tangy dressing beautifully.
– Lime juice: The star of the dressing, providing a tart, citrusy punch.
– Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a subtle heat and creaminess.
– Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance out the acidity.
– Jalapeño: Finely diced for a mild kick of heat.
– Cilantro: Fresh, fragrant cilantro adds an authentic Mexican flavor.
Step-by-Step Mexican Coleslaw Recipe Instructions
Preparing Your Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
This Mexican coleslaw recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute addition to your Taco Tuesday spread or summer BBQ. All you need is a sharp knife, a large mixing bowl, and a bit of elbow grease to shred the cabbage and chop the veggies.
1- Start by shredding the green and red cabbage into thin strips, using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for even, consistent pieces.
2- Peel and julienne the jicama, creating matchstick-like strips that will add a refreshing crunch.
3- Dice the mango into bite-sized cubes, being careful to avoid the pit.
4- Finely chop the jalapeño, removing the seeds and membranes if you want to tame the heat.
5- Roughly chop the fresh cilantro leaves.
6- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, jicama, mango, jalapeño, and cilantro. Toss gently to mix.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Mexican coleslaw is to let the flavors meld together, so be sure to refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to thoroughly coat the vegetables and the textures to marry.
Another pro tip? Don’t be afraid to play with the heat level. If you love a little extra kick, feel free to add an extra jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you’re feeding a crowd with varying spice tolerances, you can tone down the heat by using less jalapeño or even substituting a milder pepper like Anaheim.
Serving and Storing Your Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
Perfect Pairings for Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
This Mexican coleslaw recipe is the ultimate side kick for all your Mexican-inspired dishes. Serve it alongside grilled carne asada, shredded chicken tacos, or crispy fish tacos for a flavor-packed meal. It also pairs beautifully with smoky, charred corn on the cob or as a refreshing topping for juicy burgers.
For drinks, a crisp Mexican lager or a tangy margarita are the perfect companions to this zesty slaw. And don’t forget the Takis – a sprinkle of those addictive crumbs on top takes this Mexican coleslaw to the next level.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The best part about this Mexican coleslaw recipe is that it gets even better with time. The flavors continue to develop and meld together, so you can make it a day or two in advance and enjoy the leftovers for up to a week.
Simply store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a gentle toss before serving. If it seems a bit dry, you can revive it with a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
Creative Mexican Coleslaw Recipe Variations
For a seasonal twist, try swapping in shredded Brussels sprouts or kale for the cabbage. Or, for a heartier version, stir in black beans, roasted corn, or diced avocado.
You can also experiment with different citrus flavors, using orange or grapefruit juice instead of lime. And if you’re a spice-lover, add a sprinkle of cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of cayenne for an extra kick.
Making Mexican Coleslaw Recipe Diet-Friendly
To make this Mexican coleslaw recipe gluten-free, simply ensure that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free. For a vegan version, swap the honey for agave or maple syrup, and omit the Dijon mustard (or use a vegan-friendly alternative).
Looking to cut down on carbs? Skip the jicama and mango, and add in extra cabbage, bell peppers, and radishes for a low-carb twist. You can also serve the slaw on a bed of mixed greens for a delicious and nutritious salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage to save time?
A: Absolutely! Using pre-shredded cabbage is a great time-saver. Just be sure to give it a quick chop to break down the pieces further and ensure even distribution of flavors.
Q: How long can I store leftover Mexican coleslaw?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, your Mexican coleslaw will keep in the fridge for up to 7 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, so it’s often even better on the second or third day.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, Mexican coleslaw is the perfect make-ahead side dish. Prepare the slaw up to 2 days in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply give it a quick toss before serving.
Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: For an extra kick of heat, you can increase the amount of jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dressing. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spice.
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A: Absolutely! While the classic combination of green and red cabbage is delicious, you can easily substitute Napa cabbage, Savoy cabbage, or even shredded Brussels sprouts for a twist on the traditional Mexican coleslaw.
Incredible 20-Minute Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this quick and easy Mexican Coleslaw Recipe. Packed with shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, and a creamy, zesty dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for your Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients
– 4 cups shredded green cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. – In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, and cilantro.
2. – In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. – Pour the dressing over the coleslaw and toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. – Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. – Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon or two of sour cream to the dressing. You can also adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 20
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Conclusion
This Mexican coleslaw recipe is a true taste of home, a celebration of the vibrant flavors and textures that make Mexican cuisine so beloved. With its perfect balance of crunch, tang, and just a touch of heat, it’s the ultimate side kick to all your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, get chopping, and let the flavors of this Mexican coleslaw transport you to a backyard fiesta, complete with mariachi music and the laughter of loved ones. Trust me, this slaw is going to become your new go-to, a recipe that will have your family and friends begging for seconds (and thirds!). Buen provecho!
