How To Make Salsa Picosa: A Spicy And Delicious Mexican Condiment
Cesar Chien
Salsa Picosa de Chiltepin 🥵 Receta de Adriana R. Cookpad from cookpad.com
Introduction
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you're probably familiar with salsa. But have you tried salsa picosa? This spicy and flavorful condiment is perfect for those who love a little heat in their food. In this article, we'll show you how to make salsa picosa at home using fresh ingredients and simple steps.
Ingredients
To make salsa picosa, you'll need the following ingredients: - 4-5 ripe tomatoes - 1-2 jalapeño peppers - 1 small red onion - 3 garlic cloves - 1 lime - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Cilantro (optional)
Tomatoes
The key to a good salsa picosa is using ripe and juicy tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are bright red, plump, and slightly soft to the touch. You can use any type of tomato, but roma or plum tomatoes are recommended for their meaty texture and low water content.
Jalapeño Peppers
Jalapeño peppers are what give salsa picosa its spicy kick. You can adjust the heat level by using more or fewer jalapeños, or by removing the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Make sure to wash the peppers thoroughly and handle them with gloves to avoid irritation.
Red Onion
Red onion adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the salsa. You can also use white or yellow onion if you prefer. Make sure to dice the onion finely so that it blends well with the other ingredients.
Garlic
Garlic is a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine and adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the salsa. You can use more or less garlic depending on your taste preferences.
Lime
Fresh lime juice adds a bright and zesty flavor to the salsa. Make sure to use a ripe lime and squeeze it directly over the salsa for maximum freshness.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and adds a smooth and rich texture to the salsa. You can use any type of oil, but extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. Use them sparingly and adjust according to your taste preferences.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a popular herb in Mexican cuisine and adds a fresh and citrusy flavor to the salsa. Some people love it, while others hate it. If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it or substitute it with parsley.
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to make the salsa picosa. Follow these simple steps: 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Wash and dry the tomatoes and jalapeños. Cut the tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up. 3. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes if desired. Place them on the same baking sheet, cut side down. 4. Peel and slice the onion into thin wedges. Place them on the baking sheet with the tomatoes and jalapeños. 5. Peel the garlic cloves and place them on the baking sheet. 6. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 7. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are soft and slightly charred. 8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the vegetables cool for a few minutes. 9. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender or food processor. Squeeze the lime juice over the vegetables. 10. Pulse the blender or food processor until the salsa is smooth but still slightly chunky. 11. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if needed. 12. If using cilantro, finely chop a handful and stir it into the salsa. 13. Transfer the salsa to a bowl and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Nutrition
Salsa picosa is a low-calorie and nutritious condiment that can be enjoyed in moderation. Here's the approximate nutrition information for a serving of salsa picosa (2 tablespoons): - Calories: 15 - Fat: 1 gram - Carbohydrates: 2 grams - Fiber: 1 gram - Protein: 0.5 grams - Sodium: 80 milligrams Salsa picosa is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. It's also low in sugar and cholesterol-free. However, if you're watching your sodium intake, you may want to use less salt in the recipe or enjoy the salsa in smaller portions.
Conclusion
Salsa picosa is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in many ways. Try it with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or eggs. You can also customize the recipe by adding other ingredients such as roasted bell peppers, corn, or black beans. Once you've mastered the basic recipe, you can experiment with different flavors and heat levels to create your own signature salsa picosa. Enjoy!