18 Red Chile Salsa Mexican Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: May 17, 2024
Red chile salsa is a staple in Mexican cuisine, adding a burst of flavor and heat to any dish. Made from a combination of dried red chiles, tomatoes, and spices, this versatile condiment can be used as a dip, marinade, or sauce. While there are many variations of this recipe, here is a tried and true method for making a delicious red chile salsa that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Dried red chiles are the star of this salsa recipe, providing the rich, smoky flavor and vibrant color that make it stand out. When choosing your chiles, look for ones that are pliable and have a deep, dark red color. Ancho, guajillo, and pasilla chiles are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with different types to find your preferred level of heat and flavor.
Preparing the Chiles
To prepare the chiles, remove the stems and seeds and then rinse them under warm water. Next, place the chiles in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chiles simmer for about 15 minutes until they are soft and rehydrated.
The Tomato Base
Once the chiles are rehydrated, they are ready to be combined with the other key ingredient in this recipe: tomatoes. You can use either fresh or canned tomatoes, but for a more authentic taste, opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes that have been roasted in the oven or on a hot grill. The smoky flavor from the roasted tomatoes will add depth to your salsa.
Blending and Seasoning
After the chiles and tomatoes are cooked, it's time to blend them together. You can use a blender or food processor for this step, but for a more rustic texture, use a molcajete (a traditional Mexican mortar and pestle). Once the mixture is blended, add in your preferred seasonings, such as garlic, onion, cumin, and salt. These will enhance the flavors of the chiles and tomatoes and give your salsa a well-rounded taste.
Adjusting the Heat
If your salsa is too spicy for your liking, you can reduce the heat by adding in some fresh lime juice or a bit of honey. If it's not spicy enough, you can always add in some more chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The beauty of making your own red chile salsa is that you can adjust the heat level to your personal preference.
Enjoying Your Salsa
Once your red chile salsa is prepared, it's time to enjoy it! This versatile condiment can be used as a dipping sauce for chips or veggies, a marinade for meats, or a topping for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, but we doubt it will last that long.
Now that you have the recipe for a delicious red chile salsa, it's time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Trust us, once you taste the homemade version, you'll never want to go back to store-bought salsa again.
