The “Indonesian Coconut and Herb Salad” is a vibrant and aromatic dish that takes its inspiration from the richly layered flavors of Indonesia’s diverse culinary heritage. This recipe is a modern interpretation of the traditional “Urap”, a popular Indonesian mixed vegetable salad that features fresh herbs, steamed or raw vegetables, and an irresistible toasted coconut dressing. By blending aromatic herbs, earthy vegetables, and the tropical depth of coconut, this salad embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine: bold, fresh, and thoughtfully layered flavors.
Indonesia is a sprawling archipelago, home to over 17,000 islands, each with its unique culinary traditions. The nation’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the use of fresh ingredients, verdant herbs, and aromatic spices. “Urap”, the traditional salad that inspired this recipe, has its roots in Javanese cuisine and is usually served alongside rice dishes, grilled fish, or meats. It is particularly loved for its balance of flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and spicy—all harmonized by the creaminess of grated coconut.
This version of the salad lends a lighter, slightly more modern twist to the traditional recipe. Instead of the steamed vegetables traditionally used in “Urap”, this salad incorporates fresh, crunchy ingredients like julienned carrots, thinly sliced cabbage, and whole herbs such as cilantro and mint. These elements not only add vibrant texture but also heighten the overall freshness of the dish. The addition of toasted coconut flakes preserves the characteristic nutty essence of “Urap”, while also lending a delightful crunch. By toasting the coconut, the natural oils are released, intensifying its flavor and creating an irresistible aroma.
One of the things that sets Indonesian cuisine apart is its clever use of sweet ingredients, like palm sugar, as a counterpoint to bold chilies and zesty lime. This recipe preserves that harmony by combining the grated palm sugar with freshly squeezed lime juice and red chili slices—capturing the perfect trifecta of sweetness, tanginess, and heat. The dressing is finished with a simple drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, adding a subtle richness while allowing the other flavors to shine. For a non-vegetarian twist, a touch of fish sauce could deepen the umami flavor, though it’s optional and can be easily replaced with tamari for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
What makes this salad truly remarkable is its versatility. It is a perfect accompaniment to grilled seafood or roasted chicken, yet it also stands beautifully on its own as a light, refreshing dish. Owing to the minimal cooking required, it’s quick to prepare—a boon for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
This recipe stays true to its Indonesian roots while adapting to suit a variety of palates and dietary preferences around the world. It invites people to explore the incredible depth of flavor in Indonesian cuisine and showcases the beauty of natural, simple ingredients when treated with care and respect. Enjoy this bright, herbaceous creation—each bite transports you to the lush landscapes and spice-scented air of Indonesia.
Indonesian Coconut and Herb Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup organic coconut flakes unsweetened, toasted
- 1 cup fresh cilantro roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves roughly chopped
- 1 cup cabbage thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot julienned
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon (affiliate link)sea salt
- 1 teaspoon palm sugar grated
- 1 piece red chili sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons (affiliate link)olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by toasting the coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and aromatic. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cilantro, mint, cabbage, carrot, lime juice, sea salt, palm sugar, and red chili. Toss gently to mix the ingredients well.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss again to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted coconut flakes on top for a delightful crunch. Serve immediately.