Zesty Spicy Mexican-Style Curtido Recipe
Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I genuinely trust and believe will bring value to my readers. For more information, please visit the Privacy Policy page. Thank you for supporting my blog and helping me continue to provide valuable content.
Check out 6 other healthy and gut-healing pickled and fermented recipes in our post: 7 Ways to Pickle Cabbage: Creative and Delicious Recipes for Every Palate.
Are you ready to bring some vibrant and spicy flavors to your table? This Mexican-style curtido is a tangy, fermented slaw that pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or on its own as a refreshing side. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to add it to every meal.
Curtido is not just any slaw; it’s a delightful mix of cabbage, carrots, and spices, all fermented to perfection. The result is a crunchy, zesty dish that packs a punch with every bite. Plus, making your own curtido at home means you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
The Vibrancy of Curtido
Curido is a slaw that brings a burst of color to any table.
This Mexican-style dish is made from shredded cabbage and bright carrots, combined with jalapeños for that perfect kick.
The mix of textures and flavors creates an impressive side that enhances numerous meals.
Flavors That Excite
The tangy vinegar brine is the secret to a lively curtido.
With just the right balance of salt and sweetness, every bite offers a refreshing crunch.
Fresh herbs sprinkled on top add a final touch, enhancing both taste and presentation.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing curtido is straightforward and quick.
Start by shredding the cabbage and grating the carrots, then mix them with thinly sliced onion and chopped jalapeños.
The brine, made from vinegar, water, salt, and oregano, takes mere moments to whisk together.
Fermentation: A Key Step
Fermentation transforms the curtido, developing its tangy flavor.
After combining the veggies and the brine, pack the mixture tightly in a jar and let it sit at room temperature.
This process typically takes 2-3 days, and daily tasting helps achieve the desired level of tanginess.
Storing and Enjoying Your Curtido
Once fermentation is complete, refrigerate the curtido for maximum freshness.
It can be enjoyed for weeks, continuing to develop its flavors over time.
Perfect as a side for tacos or grilled meats, curtido is a versatile addition to any meal.
The Perfect Presentation
Serving curtido in a vibrant bowl enhances its visual appeal.
The colorful layers of cabbage, carrots, and jalapeños create an inviting dish.
Pair it with traditional Mexican meals for a stunning table display that captivates everyone’s attention.
The Perfect Spicy Mexican-Style Curtido
This curtido is a bright and tangy slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and spices, all steeped in a vinegar brine. It’s crunchy, slightly sweet, and a bit spicy, giving your dishes an exciting boost of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (adjust for heat)
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, sliced onion, and chopped jalapeños.
- Prepare the Brine: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, salt, oregano, and sugar until dissolved.
- Combine and Pack: Pour the brine over the vegetable mixture and toss until well coated. Pack the mixture tightly into a clean jar, pressing down to remove air bubbles.
- Ferment: Seal the jar and leave it at room temperature for 2-3 days to ferment, depending on your desired tanginess. Check daily, and taste to see when it reaches your preferred flavor.
- Refrigerate: Once fermented, store the curtido in the refrigerator. It will continue to develop flavor over time, and can be enjoyed for weeks.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Fermentation Time: 2-3 days
- Total Time: 2-3 days 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 30kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
One Comment