Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this mouthwatering Cooked Tomatillo Salsa with Arbol Chiles - a recipe that promises to set your taste buds on fire and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! This isn't just another salsa recipe; it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the tangy brightness of tomatillos with the intense heat of arbol chiles, creating a condiment so irresistible, you'll want to drizzle it on everything.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 6 tomatillos, husked and quartered
- 2 dried arbol chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Husk the tomatillos and rinse them under cold water to remove any sticky residue. Quarter the tomatillos and set them aside.
- Next, take the dried arbol chiles. If you prefer a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds; otherwise, leave them in for extra heat. Use kitchen scissors or your fingers to stem and seed the chiles, then set them aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the arbol chiles. Toast them for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant, but be careful not to burn them. This step enhances their flavor.
- Once toasted, remove the chiles from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the quartered tomatillos. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to char slightly.
- While the tomatillos are cooking, chop the onion and garlic. After the tomatillos have softened, add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, transfer the tomatillo, onion, and garlic mixture to a blender or food processor.
- Add the toasted arbol chiles and chopped cilantro to the blender. Season with salt to taste. Blend the mixture until you reach your desired salsa consistency, whether smooth or chunky.
- Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thinner salsa, you can add a small amount of water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl or an airtight container. It can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy your cooked tomatillo salsa with chips, tacos, or any of your favorite Mexican dishes!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select firm, bright green tomatillos with tight, intact husks for the best flavor.
- Toasting Technique: When toasting arbol chiles, watch them carefully - they can burn quickly. Look for a deep color and fragrant aroma.
- Texture Control: Blend to your preference - pulse for a chunky salsa or blend longer for a smoother consistency.
- Heat Management: Remove chile seeds for a milder salsa, or keep them in for maximum heat.
- Flavor Enhancement: Let the salsa sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Storage Tip: This salsa stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, and the flavor actually improves overnight!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 10kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
