Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will transform your culinary experience! Salsa de Chile Cascabel is not just another condiment – it's a burst of authentic Mexican passion that will elevate every dish from ordinary to extraordinary. With its rich, smoky undertones and perfectly balanced heat, this salsa is the secret weapon that professional chefs and home cooks alike swear by. Prepare to impress your friends and family with a homemade salsa that captures the true essence of traditional Mexican cuisine.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 6 cascabel chiles
- 2 tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 onion
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the cascabel chiles under cold water to remove any dust or debris.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the cascabel chiles for about 2-3 minutes, turning frequently until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this can impart a bitter taste.
- Once toasted, remove the chiles from the skillet and let them cool slightly. After cooling, remove the stems and seeds from the chiles. This will help reduce the heat and enhance the flavor of the salsa.
- In the same skillet, add the tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the peeled cloves of garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Chop the tomatoes into quarters and add them to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down.
- In a blender, combine the toasted cascabel chiles, sautéed onion, garlic, and tomatoes. Add salt to taste. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
- Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. If you prefer a spicier salsa, you can add more cascabel chiles or other chili varieties.
- Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl or an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before serving, or refrigerate it for later use. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
- Serve your Salsa de Chile Cascabel with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a condiment for your favorite Mexican dishes.
Tips
- Chile Toasting Technique: When toasting cascabel chiles, watch them carefully. They should become fragrant but not burnt. A slight color change and aromatic smell indicate perfect toasting.
- Seed Removal Matters: Removing seeds helps control the heat level while preserving the chile's unique flavor profile. Use gloves if you have sensitive skin.
- Consistency is Key: If your salsa is too thick, add a little water during blending. For a smoother texture, strain the salsa after blending.
- Flavor Enhancement: Let the salsa sit for 30 minutes to an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Storage Tip: This salsa keeps well in the refrigerator for 5-7 days in an airtight container, and the flavor actually improves over time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 25kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
