Haitian Coleslaw
My husband and I celebrated my fiftieth birthday on the island of St. John, where we enjoyed many terrific meals. One day, we had lunch at Pussers Ltd in Cruz Bay. The coleslaw they served was extraordinary: cool and hot at the same time. I have no idea how it was made. Serrano chilies give this dish a real kick; the lime juice makes it refreshing.
My husband and I celebrated my fiftieth birthday on the island of St. John, where we enjoyed many terrific meals. One day, we had lunch at Pussers Ltd in Cruz Bay. The coleslaw they served was extraordinary: cool and hot at the same time. I have no idea how it was made. Serrano chilies give this dish a real kick; the lime juice makes it refreshing.
- Carbohydrate 13 g(4%)
- Cholesterol 4 mg(1%)
- Fat 17 g(26%)
- Fiber 4 g(15%)
- Protein 2 g(4%)
- Saturated Fat 2 g(12%)
- Sodium 158 mg(7%)
- Calories 204
Step-by-step
- Whisk mayonnaise, olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, mustard, chopped dill, sugar, chilies, garlic and celery seeds in medium bowl to blend.
- Toss cabbage and carrots in large bowl with enough dressing to coat.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- (Coleslaw can be prepared ahead. Let stand at room temperature up to 1 hour or cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours.)
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
A Taste of Paradise: My Haitian Coleslaw Adventure
Fifty years young! To celebrate this milestone, my husband and I embarked on a trip to the stunning island of St. John. The turquoise waters, the vibrant flora, and the sheer beauty of the landscape were breathtaking, but it was the food that truly stole my heart. Each meal was a culinary adventure, a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue, but one dish stands out above the rest: the coleslaw at Pusser's Ltd. in Cruz Bay.
I’ve always enjoyed coleslaw, but this was different. This wasn't your average creamy, slightly sweet side dish. Oh no, this was a revelation! It possessed a unique balance – a cool, refreshing crispness juxtaposed with a subtle, exhilarating heat. The memory of that first bite remains vivid: the perfect blend of textures and tastes, a delightful dance on my palate. I couldn't resist trying to recreate this magical coleslaw myself. The quest began!
The original recipe remained a mystery, a delicious enigma. All I had were fragmented memories and a lingering desire to recapture that unforgettable taste. The challenge ignited my passion. I experimented, tested different combinations of ingredients, adjusting proportions and techniques until I finally achieved something akin to that incredible coleslaw. This recipe captures the essence of that unforgettable lunch, infusing the vibrant spirit of St. John into every bite.
The secret? It's all in the balance. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise provides a comforting base, the tangy lime juice adds a refreshing zest, while the subtle heat from the serrano chilies delivers a delightful kick. The addition of apple cider vinegar lends a welcome sharpness, perfectly offsetting the sweetness of the sugar. And the fresh dill? It’s simply magic – adding an herby freshness that elevates the whole experience. The crunchy cabbage and carrots provide the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the dressing.
This coleslaw is more than just a side dish; it’s a journey, a culinary trip back to that unforgettable day in paradise. Each bite transports me back to the warm Caribbean sun, the gentle sea breeze, and the delightful company of my husband. It is a reminder of the simple joys of life, the pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, and the satisfaction of recreating a cherished culinary memory. I encourage you to try it. Let this coleslaw be your escape, a miniature vacation for your taste buds.
More than just a dish, it’s a reminder of the unexpected discoveries that life throws our way, a testament to the enduring power of good food, and a celebration of the simple joys of a perfect moment, captured in a bowl of vibrant, flavorful coleslaw.
So gather your ingredients, put on some island music, and let the flavors transport you to a sunny paradise. Happy cooking!
