Frito Cowboy Cabbage

by
Delicious Frito Cowboy Cabbage served in a bowl with toppings.

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a delightful dish that brings together crunchy textures and bold flavors. It is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare and can serve as a hearty main dish or a delicious side. The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying and colorful meal that everyone will love. Plus, you can customize it to cater to your taste and dietary preferences.

HOW TO MAKE Frito Cowboy Cabbage

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 ½ cups (247.5 g) canned corn kernels, drained
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced
  • 3 green onions, finely sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 bag (9.75 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, reserving a handful for topping
  • ½ cup (115 g) sour cream
  • ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo (just the sauce, not the peppers)

Directions

  1. Start by washing your fresh ingredients. Rinse the black beans under cool water in a strainer to remove any excess sodium. Drain the canned corn as well.
  2. In a large bowl, add the coleslaw mix, black beans, corn, jalapeño, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, taco seasoning, and ground cumin. Toss everything together until it is mixed well.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, take the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chipotle sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth. This creamy mixture will act as a dressing for your salad and should yield about 1 ¼ cups of chipotle dressing.
  4. When you are ready to serve the dish, pour the chipotle dressing over the cabbage mixture in the large bowl. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  5. Now add in all of the Chili Cheese Fritos except for a handful that you will use for topping. Gently mix everything together again.
  6. Just before you serve the dish, top it with the reserved handful of Chili Cheese Fritos to add an extra crunch.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your Frito Cowboy Cabbage!

HOW TO SERVE Frito Cowboy Cabbage

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is versatile and can be served in many ways. You can serve it in large bowls or individual plates, depending on the occasion. This dish works well as a main course, especially when paired with grilled chicken or beef for a more hearty meal. Alternatively, you can serve it as a side dish next to tacos, burritos, or any grilled dishes. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a crunchy topping for your favorite dishes. The flavors blend wonderfully, making it a great way to add something unique to your table.

HOW TO STORE Frito Cowboy Cabbage

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate from the cabbage mixture until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunch of the Fritos. When stored properly, Frito Cowboy Cabbage can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, it is recommended to enjoy it fresh for optimal taste and texture! Before serving any leftovers, give it a good stir and feel free to add a little extra fresh lime juice to brighten up the flavors.

TIPS TO MAKE Frito Cowboy Cabbage

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and crunch.
  2. Customize Heat: If you like your dish spicy, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add more to suit your taste. For a milder version, use a little less or remove the jalapeño altogether.
  3. Add Protein: For a more filling meal, you can add cooked chicken, ground beef, or turkey to the mix.
  4. Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives.
  5. Make Ahead: Prepare the coleslaw mixture and dressing separately a day before, and mix everything just before serving. This helps deepen the flavors while keeping the crunch intact.

VARIATIONS

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is very flexible, and you can tweak it to suit your taste:

  • Different Colors: Add more colorful bell peppers – try orange or yellow bell peppers for a vibrant mix.
  • Cheese: Incorporate some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a creamy touch.
  • Different Beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
  • Grains: Add cooked quinoa or rice to make it heartier and increase the nutritional value.
  • Fresh Herbs: Instead of cilantro, try using parsley or basil for a twist on flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Frito Cowboy Cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw mix and the dressing a day before. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and mix just before serving for the best texture.

How long does Frito Cowboy Cabbage last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to enjoy it fresh to maintain the crunchy texture of the Fritos.

Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely! If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can use ranch dressing instead of the chipotle sauce dressing or make a vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar for a lighter option.

Is Frito Cowboy Cabbage gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free if you ensure that the Fritos and other ingredients you are using are labeled gluten-free.