| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 140 | 1g | 0g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 25g | 5g | 3g | 2g |
As a native New Yorker, I’ve been steeped in an incredible blend of cultures and tastes. This ethos has underscored my culinary journey, just as it has shaped the vibrant city I call home. One of those exceptional fusion creations that resonate with my palate and heart is the Pickled West Indian Gherkin Slaw. It’s a veritable celebration of flavors, colors, and textures, encapsulating the spirit of the city’s pulsating food scene.
The Allure of Taste and Tradition
What says New York better than a dish that brings together diverse culinary elements? This Pickled West Indian Gherkin Slaw, for all its tantalizing tang and crunch, echoes the chorus of my city’s vibrant culinary ensemble. But it isn’t just a tribute; it stands as a delectable dish in its own right, harkening back to traditional West Indian cuisine where pickling is a beloved method.
Healthfulness in Every Bite
It’s not just the taste this slaw offers – it’s a nutritional powerhouse too. First, let’s talk about pickling, which amplifies the antioxidant and probiotic content of the vegetables. Couple this with the abundant vitamins and nutrients present in the gherkins, carrots, and bell peppers, and you have yourself a dish that’s as beneficial as it is delicious.
The cilantro and mint not only increase the zest and zing but also lend their detoxifying and digestive benefits. It’s a recipe that truly fosters eating well without compromising on taste, a principle I strive to live by and share through every dish I craft.
Pairs Well, Stands Alone
This gherkin slaw, with its unique spin on pickling, serves as a phenomenal companion to various dishes. It can be the unassuming sidekick to a hearty New York steak or the refreshing contrast to a spicy Jamaican jerk chicken. That being said, the slaw’s multi-dimensional character allows it to reign supreme on its own too – a flavorful melody of tangy, savory, and fresh notes that can elevate any ordinary lunch into a gastronomic experience.
So, whether you’re yearning for a taste of New York city’s diversity, striving to eat healthily, or on the hunt for that versatile side-dish that can also stand its ground solo, the Pickled West Indian Gherkin Slaw can be your go-to recipe!
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb of West Indian gherkins
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon of rock salt
- 1/2 large red onion, finely sliced
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 medium red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, julienned
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
Method
Step One
First, prepare the West Indian gherkins by washing them thoroughly and then cut off both ends. Set these aside.
Step Two
In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, water, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and rock salt. Stir these together over a medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Step Three
Now add the prepared West Indian gherkins into the saucepan. Simmer them in the pickling solution for around 15 minutes, or until they become slightly soft.
Step Four
In the meantime, prepare the coleslaw by combining the finely sliced red onion, julienned carrot, and julienned red and yellow bell peppers in a large bowl.
Step Five
To your slaw mix, add the minced garlic, chopped fresh cilantro, chopped fresh mint, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Toss these together until they are well mixed.
Step Six
Once the gherkins have softened, use a slotted spoon to transfer them into the slaw mix. Stir to combine the gherkins into the slaw.
Step Seven
Finally, pour enough the remaining pickling solution over the slaw to just cover it. Stir well, before covering the bowl with cling film and refrigerating it for at least one hour before serving. The longer it marinades, the more flavorful it becomes. Enjoy your Pickled West Indian Gherkin Slaw!
