CHILI MADNESS with author Jane Butel

Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup cider or white vinegar
• 2 tbls sugar
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• ⅓ cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbls minced jalapeño chile
• ¼ cup chopped onion

Instructions

Place the oil, vinegar, and sugar in a small saucepan over low heat. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat.

Combine the cabbage, cilantro, jalapeño, and onion in a bowl. Drizzle the warm salad dressing over the mixture and toss well.

For the best flavor, prepare this 1 day ahead; cover and refrigerate. If you're short on time, allow it to sit for at least 1 hour at room temperature, and then serve. Serves 4.

Added Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009