Jamaican Mango Slaw

Name: Jamaican Mango Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe mangoes, diced; 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Mango Slaw during warm summer days! The vibrant combination of juicy mango, crisp cabbage, and zesty lime creates a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite dances with sweetness and tang, making it a perfect side dish for barbecues or tropical-themed dinners. I find that using ripe, fragrant mangoes elevates the dish, providing a natural sweetness that complements the crunch of the cabbage beautifully. It's a dish that always has my friends asking for seconds!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:04:18.483Z

When I first tried Jamaican Mango Slaw, I was blown away by how vibrant and lively the flavors were. The sweetness of the mango mixed with the tang of lime and the crunch of cabbage created a symphony of textures and tastes that I couldn’t resist. After experimenting with various ingredients, I realized that a touch of ginger adds a delightful warmth that brings everything together beautifully.

I also learned that letting the slaw sit for about 10 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld perfectly. This quick resting time infuses the cabbage with the dressing's flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with tropical flavors that transport you to the islands
Crisp, colorful, and visually appealing addition to any meal
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great last-minute side dish

      

Choosing the Right Mango

Selecting ripe mangoes is crucial for achieving the best flavor in this slaw. Look for mangoes with smooth, slightly wrinkled skin that yield slightly to gentle pressure. The flesh should be fragrant and feel firm but not hard; overly soft or brown spots can indicate overripeness. Although Haden and Tommy Atkins varieties are commonly found, look for Ataulfo mangoes for their sweet, buttery taste which enhances the overall tropical experience.

To make peeling and dicing mangoes easier, slice them vertically down each side of the pit, then scoop out the fruit with a spoon. This method minimizes mess and maximizes yield, ensuring you get every bit of that delicious flesh into your slaw.

Enhancing the Slaw's Flavor

The balance of flavors is essential in this Jamaican Mango Slaw. The sweetness of the ripe mango pairs wonderfully with the acidity of lime juice, while the honey or agave syrup adds a touch of richness. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. This will elevate the dish and cater to those who enjoy an extra dimension of heat.

For an added layer of depth, let the slaw marinate for an hour after combining all the ingredients. This short rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a vibrant and cohesive dish that's bursting with freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This colorful slaw works wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats, especially jerk chicken or pork, reflecting its Caribbean roots. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it as a topping for tacos or within grain bowls, as the crunchy texture adds an appealing contrast.

To vary the slaw, feel free to incorporate additional crunchy vegetables like radishes or snap peas, which enhance both the flavor and texture. For a tropical twist, consider adding diced pineapple or shredded coconut, bringing in even more fruity goodness and aligning with the Jamaican theme.

Ingredients

Gather fresh ingredients to make this delightful slaw:

Ingredients

2 ripe mangoes, diced
4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup carrots, grated
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
Salt and black pepper to taste

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Jamaican Mango Slaw:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, diced red bell pepper, and sliced red onion.

Add Mango and Cilantro

Gently fold in the diced mango and chopped cilantro, being careful not to mash the mango.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss everything together until fully coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Your Jamaican Mango Slaw is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Making Ahead

Jamaican Mango Slaw is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the slaw up to 24 hours in advance; however, be mindful that the cabbage may lose some of its crunch if left to sit too long. To maintain the texture, consider combining the vegetables and dressing separately and mixing them just before serving.

For longer storage, keep the prepared slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for about 2-3 days, but flavors will intensify over time, so expect a more flavorful slaw, although it may lose some crispness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your slaw feels too watery after marinating, this could be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To avoid this, use a salad spinner after washing your cabbage and other veggies to remove excess water. Another tip is to add the salt just before serving, as salt draws out moisture from the vegetables.

In case you find your slaw lacking a bit of brightness, a dash more lime juice can elevate the flavor instantly. Conversely, if it tastes too tart, a touch more honey or agave syrup can help balance the acidity, achieving the perfect sweet-tart harmony.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jamaican Mango Slaw ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to prepare it up to an hour in advance to maintain the freshness of the cabbage.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Mango Slaw?

This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a refreshing side to any barbecue.

→ Can I substitute the mango?

While mango is the star, you could try using diced pineapple or peaches for a different flavor.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers can last for about 2 days in the fridge, though they are best enjoyed fresh.