Jamaican Mango Slaw

Name: Jamaican Mango Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Whenever I make Jamaican Mango Slaw, I feel like I'm bringing a bit of the Caribbean into my kitchen. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors instantly brighten up any meal. I love how the sweetness of the mango perfectly balances the crunch of the cabbage, creating a delightful combination that's hard to resist. Whether served as a side dish or a light snack, this slaw adds a tropical twist that elevates my dining experience. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked on its zesty goodness!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:07:13.611Z

My journey with Jamaican Mango Slaw began during a summer barbecue when I first tasted this delightful dish. The fresh mango and crunchy cabbage were an unforgettable combination that inspired me to recreate it at home. I've learned that using ripe, juicy mangoes is key to achieving the perfect flavor balance—trust me, it makes all the difference!

As I experimented with different dressings, I discovered that a simple lime and honey mixture brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit while adding a hint of tanginess. This slaw not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on the table, making it a surefire hit at any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that transport you to the tropics
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect as a side dish or light meal

      

The Balance of Flavors

The balance of flavors in Jamaican Mango Slaw is what makes it truly special. The sweetness of the ripe mango plays beautifully against the slight bitterness of the cabbage. When selecting a mango, look for one that yields slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma; this ensures that it is ripe and bursting with flavor. The red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and crunch that complements the dish, creating a medley of textures that keeps each bite interesting.

Adding fresh cilantro enhances the tropical vibe of the slaw. Not only does it introduce a refreshing herbal note, but it also adds a vibrant green color that visually elevates the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a milder flavor, though the slaw might lose some of its distinctive Caribbean flair. The key is to incorporate fresh herbs that brighten the overall taste.

Tips for Preparation

For this recipe, ensure your cabbage is shredded evenly to achieve a consistent texture. A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer can help you attain uniform pieces. This uniformity is crucial because it allows the dressing to coat each piece evenly, enhancing the flavor profile of the slaw. If you prefer a crunchier slaw, you can let the cabbage sit for a shorter period before adding the dressing.

When making the dressing, adjust the amount of honey based on the ripeness of your mango. If your mango is exceptionally sweet, you might want to reduce the honey for a better balance. Conversely, a less ripe mango may require a touch more honey to achieve that sweet-tangy flavor characteristic of Jamaican cuisine. Whisk the dressing until it is thoroughly combined and slightly thickened, which will help it cling to the vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your tropical slaw:

Ingredients

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all these colorful ingredients to make a refreshing slaw!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Jamaican Mango Slaw:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced mango, sliced red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Mix Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently until everything is coated evenly.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve chilled.

Enjoy your refreshing Jamaican Mango Slaw!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes to your slaw. Pair it with grilled meats for an ultimate tropical feast.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Mango Slaw is incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes. It pairs excellently with grilled meats, such as jerk chicken or pork, adding a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the meat. For a light meal, serve it as a topping on tacos or as a filling in lettuce wraps, giving these dishes a tropical twist.

You can also elevate the presentation by adding sliced avocados or toasted nuts on top before serving. The creaminess of the avocado complements the slaw's sweetness, while the nuts provide an additional crunch. Serve this vibrant slaw at your next barbecue or potluck, and watch it disappear!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you plan to prepare the slaw ahead of time, consider leaving out the dressing until just before serving. This prevents the cabbage from wilting and keeps the slaw crisp and fresh. You can store the mixed slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days without the dressing, or one day with it. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.

For longer storage, the slaw can be frozen; however, keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose this route, pack the slaw without the dressing in a freezer-safe container, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and dress it before serving to revive some of its original flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for mango?

You can use diced pineapple or even chopped apples for a different fruity twist.

→ Is this slaw vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are vegan friendly.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover slaw can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.