Mexican Coleslaw

This easy Mexican Coleslaw is one of the most popular companions to many Mexican dishes. This easy recipe's combination of crunchy and tangy ingredients makes it a versatile side dish or topping that can accompany a wide range of Mexican-inspired meals like crispy tacos, flautas, fish tacos and more. On top of being so easy to prepare, it can be ready in a few minutes. 

Cabbage in Mexican Cusine

In Mexico, most vegetables are used as ingredients in stews, like squash, carrots, green beans, and chayotes. However, they are also used to make salads, especially simple ones like this cabbage salad my mom used to make.

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• Cabbage in Mexican Cusine
• Frequently asked questions about Mexican Coleslaw
• How to Make Mexican Coleslaw
• What to Serve with this Mexican Cabbage Slaw 
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My mother used to make every single meal from scratch; sometimes, it was an elaborate meal, and other times, something like this easy salad as a side dish or topping for our meals. Cabbage is a popular vegetable because of its versatility, low calorie and nutritional value( high in vitamin C, K, and calcium)

Believe it or not, Mexico produces 214 million tons of cabbage a year. Cabbage is served daily as a topping in many antojitos ( little cravings) like Crispy fish tacos, Chorizo potato crispy tacos, Potato tacos, and even as a side dish beside a Milanesa and rice.

It is also found on stews like Mexican beef soup, Carnitas tortas, and countless other creations. So, if you want to add a signature flavor and texture to your dishes as we do in Mexico, look no further and try this easy and quick salad; you will love it.  

Frequently asked questions about Mexican Coleslaw

Before I share my recipe, I will answer the questions I usually get about this homemade recipe.

What is Mexican coleslaw made of?

The main ingredients typically include shredded cabbage and sometimes other vegetables like carrots, radishes, tomatoes, red bell peppers, jalapenos, cilantro, and different onions (red onions and green onions). The vinaigrette gives this Mexican slaw a zesty flavor, using ingredients like lime juice and oil. It could be olive oil or a mild vegetable oil

What is the difference between cole slaw and slaw?

Mainly is the salad's ingredients; slaw refers to chopped vegetables, like broccoli for broccoli slaw. Coleslaw involves cabbage as a main ingredient, whether green, red, or napa in the salad. 

Does Mexican Coleslaw contain mayonnaise?

Many people confuse the American coleslaw version that is usually prepared with some kind of dairy like buttermilk, mayo, greek yogurt, or substitutes. However, in places like Mexico, the recipes are more of a vinaigrette base or oil and lime juice. One thing that you have to be certain of is that we also enjoy the American version with mayonnaise. Also, know that coleslaw has many variations around the world.  

How to store Mexican Coleslaw?

Coleslaw will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days when stored properly. Store it in an airtight container. Try to drain some of the extra lime juice before storing your leftovers; the lime juice tends to spoil quickly, affecting the overall taste of the slaw.

Be aware that the cabbage will not be as crispy as the first day since the dressing will soften its texture. Discard the mixture if you see signs of spoilage, such as a sour or off smell. 

How to Make Mexican Coleslaw

Ingredients

Here is the list of ingredients you need for this recipe:

• Shredded Cabbage
• Radishes
• White Onion
• Olive Olive*
• Fresh Lime Juice
• Sliced Tomato
• Salt and Pepper

Instructions:

• First, place the shredded cabbage, radishes, and white onion in a large bowl or on a service plate.

• Mix the oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl for a vinaigrette. 

• Pour the vinaigrette onto the cabbage and vegetables bowl. Mix thoroughly and let it rest for about 6 to 8 minutes.

• Just before serving, decorate the salad with tomato slices. 

Notes:

Some home cooks in Mexico, use a mix of half olive oil and half vegetable oil to make the salad dressing. My mom will do that from time to time. Especially since in the old days, Spanish olive oil was the only one available and not everyone had a liking for its taste.

If the flavor of cabbage is too strong (bitter) for you, here is a tip for you: choose a large-size cabbage; they tend to have a mild and sweeter taste.

Even though traditionally, this recipe does not require other spices, I have known people that add their own, like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and even crushed red pepper. Since most of the time we use it as a topping or side dish, we usually only add black pepper. This way it only complements the dish you serve it with.

What to Serve with this Mexican Cabbage Slaw 

I like to serve this slaw recipe with fried fish or grilled chicken and steak. One of the many uses for this cabbage salad is as a topping for Chicken tacos, Crispy fish tacos, Chorizo potato crispy tacos, and Potato tacos, either soft tacos or Flautas. I have found that this cabbage slaw is a hit at picnics and potlucks when you are serving tacos. It gives you an extra crunch with every bite. So, whether you're planning a Mexican-themed dinner or just looking to add some variety to your coleslaw, Mexican coleslaw is a fantastic choice to consider.

More Authentic Mexican Food Recipes

In case you would like to try other Mexican food recipes besides this easy Mexican Coleslaw recipe, you can check my other recipes: 

• Caldo de Res - Mexican Beef Soup 
• Chicken Milanese 
• Cayote Salad 

If this recipe was of any help to you, come back to let me know your experience. Please leave us a comment below and tell us all about it!

-Mely

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