Salsa Casera

Salsa Casera, which translates to “homemade sauce” in Spanish, is a classic Mexican condiment known for its vibrant flavors and versatility. This traditional salsa is the embodiment of Mexican cuisine, offering a burst of spicy and smoky goodness that pairs perfectly with various dishes. Salsa Casera is a staple on Mexican tables, served with everything from tacos to tamales, and is cherished for its homemade, authentic taste.

Discover the essence of homemade salsa with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Salsa Casera. This delicious blend of roasted chiles, garlic, and tomatoes can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness. Follow these steps to create your own Salsa Casera:

INGREDIENTS

• 6 to 7 Anaheim chiles, roasted and peeled
• 1 or 2 jalapeño peppers, roasted (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cloves garlic, finely diced
• 1 can (14.5-ounce) whole tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce (if you want a less-spicy salsa)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the Broiler: Begin by preheating your broiler. This will be used to roast the chiles, infusing them with smoky flavor.
2. Select and Rinse the Chiles: Choose firm, meaty peppers without wrinkles. Rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove any dust particles or impurities.
3. Prepare the Chiles: Place the selected chiles evenly in a single layer on a foil-lined cookie sheet. Using a knife, pierce each chile. This helps prevent them from bursting during the roasting process.
4. Roast the Chiles: Place the chiles under the broiler. It’s essential to keep a close eye on them, as the skin will blister and turn black within minutes. Turn the peppers after 3 to 5 minutes to ensure all sides are evenly blistered and mostly black. The key is to achieve that smoky, charred flavor.
5. Steam the Roasted Chiles: After roasting, transfer the peppers into a plastic bag and cover them with a wet kitchen towel. Allowing them to steam helps loosen the skin for easier peeling.
6. Peel and Prepare the Chiles: Once the roasted chiles are cool enough to handle, peel off the blackened skin. Tear open each chile and remove the seedpod and stem. If you are making chile rellenos, you can carefully remove the stem with its attached seeds while keeping the chile intact for stuffing.
7. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the roasted and peeled chiles, jalapeño peppers (if using), salt, finely diced garlic, canned tomatoes, and tomato sauce (if you want a milder salsa). Pulse the ingredients for a few seconds, but be careful not to overblend. The goal is to achieve a chunky texture, as this is what gives Salsa Casera its distinctive character.
8. Enjoy Salsa Casera: Your Salsa Casera is now ready to serve! This homemade condiment is perfect for dipping tortilla chips, drizzling over tacos, or enhancing your favorite Mexican dishes.

NOTE:

• Salsa Casera captures the essence of traditional Mexican flavors with its smoky, spicy, and chunky texture. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive gathering or adding a kick to your everyday meals, this salsa is a delightful addition to any dining experience. The best part? You can adjust the spiciness to suit your taste, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of Mexican cuisine.