Carrot raisin salad might sound like an unusual recipe, but once you taste it, it all makes sense.
The dish is popular in the Southern United States as well as other regions around the world. Americans best know it as a recipe made with shredded carrots, mayonnaise, and raisins with sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Pineapples are often added as well.
However, there are regional variations that can be found all around the world. Ethnic Koreans in the post-Soviet states make a pickled carrot salad that has recently gained popularity and can be found in supermarkets. It is often served as a side dish during the holidays.
In India, grated carrots are cooked with mustard seeds and green chilis for a spicy version of the salad. In Bulgaria, carrot salad is made with cabbage. In Brazil, the carrots and mayonnaise are mixed with raw onion, green peas, sweetcorn, and sometimes chayote squashes.
In Tunisia, a cooked carrot salad called Houria is a popular dish. In Russia, a carrot salad is a popular side dish for kabobs. In Poland, a fruity version is made with the addition of Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, sunflower or vegetable oil, salt, and sugar. Israelis eat their carrot salad with parsley and lemon juice. North Africa and Quebec enjoy a dish called Macedonia that includes diced carrots and peas.
The recipe we have here is true to the American version we all know and love. Nutritious, crunchy, and delicious are just a few adjectives to describe this carrot raisin salad. Pineapple chunks and juice create a wonderful texture.
The raisins add just the right amount of sweetness to this menagerie of flavors. This is a great dish to serve at a barbecue or potluck. It is a light, summery treat that can be enjoyed as a refreshing side salad with your favorite sandwich. Bon appetit!
Carrot Raisin Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and shredded
- 1 cup drained pineapple chunks
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup raisins, plumped in water and drained
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients, mix well, and chill.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/NoirChocolate