Ingredients
- 500g ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno or serrano chili, finely chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
Per serving
Calories: 32 kcal
Proteins: 0.9 g
Fats: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 7.2 g
Method
-
Prepare the Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes in half and remove the seeds. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces and set them aside.
-
Saute the Onion and Garlic: In a medium-sized saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Saute them until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes aromatic.
-
Add the Chilies: Add the finely chopped chili to the saucepan and saute it for a couple of minutes until it softens.
-
Cook the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes become soft and release their juices.
-
Add Cumin and Salt: Stir in the ground cumin and add salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
-
Add Cilantro and Lime Juice: Mix in the fresh cilantro and lime juice, and stir the sauce well. The lime juice adds a tangy flavor to the salsa, enhancing its taste.
-
Blend or Keep Chunky: At this point, you can either leave the salsa chunky as it is or use a blender to puree it for a smoother texture. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it for a few seconds until you achieve the desired consistency.
-
Chill the Salsa: Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Then, cover it and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste of the salsa.
Salsa sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served as a dip with tortilla chips, nachos, or fresh vegetables. It also complements various Mexican dishes such as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and enchiladas. Additionally, it can be used as a topping for grilled meats, fish, or as a condiment for burgers and sandwiches.
Salsa sauce is a vibrant and flavorful condiment originating from Mexico. It is known for its combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, chilies, cilantro, and lime juice, offering a perfect balance of tanginess and spiciness. The sauce’s versatility makes it a popular choice to elevate the taste of many dishes, from traditional Mexican cuisine to a wide range of international foods.
Facts about Salsa Sauce:
- The word “salsa” in Spanish means “sauce,” and the sauce itself is often associated with Mexican, Tex-Mex, and Latin American cuisines.
- While tomatoes are the primary ingredient in most salsa recipes, there are countless variations, and regional differences can lead to unique flavor profiles.
- The level of spiciness in salsa can vary greatly, depending on the type and amount of chili peppers used. Jalapenos and serrano chilies are commonly used, but other varieties may also be employed for different heat levels.
- Salsa is not only delicious but also a healthy choice as it is low in calories and fat. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, which comes from the tomatoes and lime juice.
- Traditional salsa recipes often involve roasting or charring some of the ingredients, such as tomatoes and chilies, to add a smoky dimension to the flavor.
- Salsa has gained immense popularity worldwide and is now enjoyed as a staple condiment in various global cuisines, reflecting its adaptability and widespread appeal.