This fresh, medium-heat salsa has a sneaky spiciness and robust flavor. Serve with restaurant-style tortilla chips, over game-day nachos, or make a savory pan of unbelievable chilaquiles. This is a versatile salsa you'll be making on repeat from here on out.
Fresh Jalapeno Salsa
Makes 4 cups
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 6 tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1 large yellow onion, cut into large chunks
- 4–6 jalapeños, stems removed (seeded for less heat, if desired)
- 2–6 chiles de árbol or dried New Mexico chiles (adjust to taste)
- 6 large garlic cloves, halved
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Juice of 1 small lime
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½–¾ cup water, as needed
Instructions
- Fill a large pot about ¾ full with water and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the whole tomatoes and tomatillos and simmer until softened, about 10 minutes.
- While they cook, prepare the remaining ingredients (cut the onion into large chunks, remove stems from the peppers, halve the garlic cloves; using a slotted spoon, transfer the softened tomatoes and tomatillos to a blender.)
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Add the onion and peppers, sautéing until lightly charred and softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until fragrant and lightly golden (avoid burning.)
- Transfer the charred vegetables to the blender with the tomatoes and tomatillos.
- Add cumin, coriander, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, and fresh lime juice.
- Allow the salsa to cool before transferring to clean glass jars.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
For Amber’s notes on other ways to use this recipe, and more seasonal, hospitality-focused dishes, explore thehostnotes.com and follow along @thehostnotes on your favorite social channels. Stoneware and table linens generously provided by Opaline Interiors. Shop their home decor at opalineinteriors.com or in-person at 922 1st St.