Rancheros Salsa

This salsa, the best part of Huevos Rancheros, freezes exceptionally well. Consider making a double batch and storing half for later.

Yields 4 cups

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, roughly chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, roughly chopped
• 4 plum tomatoes, seeded and roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic (about 4 cloves)
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes in tomato purée
• 1 (7-ounce) can tomatillos, drained
• 1 (7-ounce) can green chilies, rinsed, drained, and roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon chipotle purée (optional)
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon frozen orange juice concentrate
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin, toasted in a dry pan until fragrant
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoky. Add onion, peppers, and plum tomatoes; cook for 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
2. In a food processor, purée garlic, diced tomatoes, and tomatillos; add to the onion mixture. Cook for 5 minutes more.
3. Add chilies, chipotle (if using), jalapeño, and cilantro. Stir in orange juice concentrate, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Huevos Rancheros: The classic pairing! Serve this zesty Rancheros Salsa over fried or poached eggs with refried beans and warm tortillas for a traditional Huevos Rancheros breakfast.
• Tacos: Use Rancheros Salsa as a flavorful topping for tacos. Whether you’re making beef, chicken, or vegetarian tacos, this salsa adds a spicy kick and vibrant flavor.
• Enchiladas: Spoon Rancheros Salsa over your favorite enchiladas before baking for a burst of flavor and a slightly spicy finish.
• Burritos: Roll up a burrito with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of protein, and then smother it with Rancheros Salsa for a hearty meal.
• Grilled Meats: Use this salsa as a marinade or drizzle it over grilled chicken, steak, or seafood for a southwestern twist.
• Dip: Serve as a dip for tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for a spicy and tangy snack.
• Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with a generous spoonful of Rancheros Salsa, sour cream, and grated cheese for a tasty twist on a classic side dish.
• Burgers: Elevate your burger game by using Rancheros Salsa as a condiment. It adds a zesty kick to your burger.
• Salads: Incorporate this salsa into your favorite salads for added flavor. It pairs well with greens, avocados, and grilled vegetables.
• Nachos: Create loaded nachos by drizzling Rancheros Salsa over a bed of tortilla chips, then adding cheese, jalapeños, black olives, and sour cream.

Feel free to get creative and use Rancheros Salsa as a versatile condiment to enhance various dishes with its bold and zesty flavors.

Enjoy this Rancheros Salsa with your favorite dishes or freeze it for later use.