This Curtido (Salvadorian Slaw) recipe looks delicious and straightforward to make! with the versatility to accompany a range of foods from pupusas to tacos and beyond. It offers a great way to bring Central American flavors to your kitchen. Here are some points to consider:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 head cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 carrots, julienne cut
- 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
- 1 jalapeno, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano (preferably Mexican)
- 2 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Bring a pot of water to a low boil. Remove from heat, and add in cabbage. Allow to sit for 8-10 minutes, then drain the cabbage in a colander.
- In a large bowl, toss together cabbage, carrots, onion, and jalapeno.
- Whisk together water, vinegar, oregano, and salt. Pour over the slaw mixture. Toss to combine.
- Transfer to a covered container or mason jars. Once cooled, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Recipe Tips and Notes:
- Blanching the Cabbage: The brief boiling of the cabbage softens it just enough to absorb the flavors while retaining its crunch.
- Marination Time: The flavors intensify over time. For best taste, let it marinate for at least 24 hours before serving.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno based on your heat tolerance. You can also add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Sterilize Jars: If storing for an extended period, use sterilized mason jars to minimize bacterial growth.
- Fresh Oregano: If available, fresh oregano can be used. Use about 3 tablespoons of freshly chopped oregano instead of dried.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 28
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 1g
Suggestions:
- Herb Options: If you’re not a fan of oregano, you can try other herbs like cilantro or parsley.
- Extra Crunch: Add sliced radishes for another layer of crunch.
- Citrusy Twist: Add some lime or lemon juice for extra tanginess.
Curtido is a traditional Salvadorian fermented cabbage slaw that pairs wonderfully with pupusas, tacos, sandwiches, and more. It’s tangy, slightly spicy, and adds a burst of flavor and crunch to your favorite dishes.
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