Kerabu Mangga (Mango Salad)

(Updated Version)

Isn’t there something irresistibly enchanting about a raw mango salad, or kerabu mangga as we call it in Bahasa Malaysia? If you ask me, I’m all for sour flavors, and kerabu mangga is the epitome of tangy delight. I’ve sampled various styles, from Thai to different Malay versions, and let me tell you, each one has its charm.

The kerabu mangga recipe I’m sharing is vegetarian, but if you’re looking to add a non-veg twist, just toss in some crispy fried shrimp or dried prawns - simple as that. Even in its vegetarian form, this salad holds its own, bursting with vibrant flavors that make it a standout.

 

Ingredients

1 large unripe mango, peeled and thinly sliced

1 red chili, thinly sliced

2 birds eye chilies, thinly sliced (optional)

4 shallots, thinly sliced

4-5 sprigs of mint leaves, shredded (or coriander leaves)

1/2 tbsp lime juice (adjust according to mango sourness)

1/2 tbsp powdered palm sugar

1/2 cup roasted cashew nuts or peanuts, coarsely pounded

Salt, to taste

 

Method

In a large bowl, toss together the sliced mango, red chili, birds eye chilies (if using), shallots, and shredded mint leaves.

Add lime juice, powdered palm sugar, and roasted cashew nuts to the bowl. 

Season with salt to taste.

Toss all the ingredients together until well combined.

Serve the Kerabu Mangga immediately as a refreshing and flavorful salad, or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite Malaysian dishes. 

Mangoes, on their own, are a delight to the taste buds. Picture the juicy, golden slices melting in your mouth! For an extra crunch, mix in some salad leaves, cucumber or zucchini, and even cherry tomatoes alongside the mango. The combination of colorful mangoes and veggies offers a feast for the eyes and a soothing experience for the senses - true Zen Cuisine Therapy for the breath, body, mind, and soul.

But wait, there’s more you can do with kerabu mangga! Transform it into Ikan Goreng Tenggiri Mangga (Fried Fish with Mango Salad). Just top the fried fish with the mango salad. For an aromatic touch, try adding kaffir lime leaves (limau purut) to enhance the flavor.