Kerabu Mangga
Spicy Green Mango Salad
A vibrant and refreshing Malaysian salad featuring shredded unripe mango, tossed with a spicy, tangy, and savory dressing. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy, with a delightful crunch.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 Green mangoes (unripe)(Choose firm, sour green mangoes for the best texture and flavor. If unavailable, use slightly underripe regular mangoes.)
- 50 g Dried shrimp(Adds a unique umami depth. Can be omitted for a vegetarian version, but the flavor will be different.)
- 4 Red chilies(Adjust quantity to your spice preference. For a milder salad, remove seeds and membranes, or use fewer chilies. Bird's eye chilies can be used for extra heat.)
- 2 tbsp Kerisik (toasted desiccated coconut)(Provides a nutty aroma and richness. Can be made by toasting desiccated coconut in a dry pan until golden brown and fragrant, then pounding or blending into a paste.)
- 2 tbsp Lime juice(Adds essential tanginess and brightness.)
- 1 tsp Sugar(Optional, to balance the sourness and spiciness.)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the mango: Peel the green mangoes. Using a mandoline slicer, a julienne peeler, or a sharp knife, cut the mango flesh into thin matchsticks or shred it. Place the shredded mango in a large mixing bowl.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the dressing: In a mortar and pestle, combine the chopped dried shrimp and finely chopped red chilies. Pound until a coarse paste forms. This releases their flavors and aromas.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add the kerisik, lime juice, sugar (if using), and salt to the mortar. Pound and mix gently until well combined into a fragrant dressing.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Combine and toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded green mango in the bowl. Gently toss everything together using your hands or two forks, ensuring the mango is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – add more lime juice for tang, chili for heat, or salt/sugar for balance.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Serve immediately: Transfer the Kerabu Mangga to a serving dish. For best results, serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the fresh, crisp texture of the mango.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm, sour green mangoes for the authentic texture and taste. Overripe mangoes will be too soft.
- ✓Kerisik adds a crucial nutty depth and richness that elevates the salad. Don't skip it if possible!
- ✓Adjust the chili and lime juice to your personal preference for spice and tang.
- ✓This salad is best enjoyed fresh as the mango will soften over time.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add thinly sliced cucumber or red onion for extra crunch.
- Include shredded cooked chicken or small pieces of boiled squid for a more substantial dish.
- For a vegetarian/vegan version, omit the dried shrimp or replace with a pinch of mushroom powder for umami.