Craving that irresistible restaurant-style salsa but tired of lackluster store-bought options? Look no further! Here’s a recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of your favorite Mexican eatery right to your kitchen.
This homemade salsa not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. Tomatoes, the star ingredient, are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Plus, the fresh cilantro and lime juice provide a boost of vitamins A and C.
Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or just want to elevate your Taco Tuesday, this easy-to-make salsa will be your new go-to.
The Rise of Salsa in American Cuisine
Before we get to the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate salsa’s journey. This zesty condiment has come a long way from its ancient Aztec roots. In fact, salsa surpassed ketchup as America’s favorite condiment in the 1990s. (ref)
Its versatility and fresh flavors have made it a staple in households across the country.
Why Homemade Salsa Reigns Supreme
While convenient, store-bought salsas often lack the vibrant flavors of their homemade counterparts. By making salsa at home, you can control the heat level, texture, and quality of ingredients. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up a batch that tastes just like – or even better than – your favorite restaurant’s version.
The Secret Ingredient You Didn’t Expect
One surprising element in this recipe is a touch of sugar. Before you balk at the idea, consider this: many of your favorite salsas likely include this secret ingredient. It helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Customization Is Key
The beauty of homemade salsa lies in its adaptability. Prefer it spicier? Add an extra jalapeño or throw in a serrano pepper.
Like it smoky? Try adding a chipotle pepper to adobo sauce. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a salsa that’s perfectly tailored to your taste buds.
Homemade Salsa
Ingredients
- 28 ounce can whole plum tomatoes including juice
- 1 small white onion peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers seeded and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin or to taste
- 1 tsp kosher salt or to taste
- 1/4 to 1 tsp granulated sugar optional and to taste
- 1 or 2 handfuls cilantro about 1 or 2 cups
- 3 Tbsp lime juice fresh is best
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a food processor.
- Pulse several times to break down larger pieces.
- Process until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving.
- Enjoy with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes!
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.