Prepare to uncover the secrets behind the smoky zest and tangy kick of Charred Tomato Salsa, a sauce that bridges the gap between ancient traditions and contemporary tastes. Picture this: Aztecs jazzing up “xitomatl” with chili peppers, a dash of ground squash seeds, and a sprinkle of salt – voilà, ancient salsa! Fast forward to today, where the real magic lies in the smoky allure of charred tomatoes, jalapenos and onions. This salsa’s got secrets, including a tangy lime twist and the art of the perfect char. Read on to discover the heritage and bold tastes within this Charred Tomato Salsa recipe.
Why this recipe works:
- Distinct Charred Flavor: Charring the tomatoes creates a deep, earthy, smoky flavor that can’t be replicated with spices. It also takes the sting out of the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a smooth, sweet, complex flavor.
- Extended Freshness: Beyond taste, lime juice’s natural preservative properties extend the salsa’s shelf life, ensuring that your creation remains vibrant and irresistible for longer periods.
- Versatile Integration: Charred Tomato Salsa seamlessly integrates into various meals, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, whether topping grilled proteins, spicing up breakfast omelets, or enhancing grain bowls. Read more about how we use this in Reverse Meal Planning and Buddha Bowls below.
From Xitomatl to Salsa Roja:
Charred Tomato Salsa, also known as “Salsa Roja”, a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, has a vibrant history that stretches back to ancient times. The Aztecs, who ruled over a vast empire in what is now Mexico, were among the first to experiment with tomatoes, which they called “xitomatl” pronounced (shee-TO-matl). Originally, tomatoes were small and yellow and had a tangy flavor.
In the early days of salsa, the Aztecs combined tomatoes with chili peppers, ground squash seeds, and salt, creating a simple yet delicious sauce. With the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, the tomato plant was introduced to Europe, where it quickly spread across the continent.
Meanwhile, in Mexico, tomatoes began to evolve, and the red, plump tomatoes we know today became a prominent feature in Mexican cuisine. The charring or roasting of tomatoes and chili peppers was also adopted, adding a delightful smokiness and depth of flavor to the salsa.
In the modern era, Charred Tomato Salsa has become a symbol of Mexican culture, celebrated worldwide for its bold taste and versatility. Whether served with tacos, chips, or as a zesty topping, this salsa continues to be a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Lime Juice Makes Your Salsa Pop:
Lime juice is the vital ingredient in our Charred Tomato Salsa, providing a burst of freshness and zing that brightens the entire dish. The tangy acidity of lime juice perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the charred tomatoes and jalapeno, creating a harmonious balance of taste.
Not only does lime juice enhance the flavor profile of the salsa, but it also acts as a natural preservative, helping the salsa stay fresh and vibrant for longer. So, don’t forget to squeeze that lime – it’s the key to keeping your salsa irresistibly zesty!
The Biggest Mistake People Make:
One of the most common mistakes people make when preparing Charred Tomato Salsa is over-charring the tomatoes and peppers. While a slight char adds depth and smokiness, too much charring can result in a burnt, bitter taste and an unpleasant texture.
To avoid this, it’s essential to monitor the charring process carefully. We recommend using a stove top and pan, but you can also use your grill. Char until your tomatoes are lightly blackened but still retain their juiciness and sweetness. This way, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of flavors that will make your salsa a hit with everyone!
Note: For a milder version of our Charred Tomato Salsa, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before adding them to the mix. This will tone down the heat while preserving the smoky taste.
Reverse Meal Plan Integration with Charred Tomato Salsa:
Integrating Charred Tomato Salsa into your Reverse Meal Plan is easy and versatile. Check your kitchen for ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and jalapeño peppers, as these are the essential ingredients for the salsa. Incorporate the salsa into various meals throughout the week, like topping grilled chicken or fish, adding it to breakfast omelets, or mixing it into grain bowls. Its smoky, tangy profile will enhance a wide range of dishes.
Learn more about saving money with Reverse Meal Plan – shop from your own kitchen first and grocery shop LAST!
Charred Tomato Salsa Buddha Bowl:
For a delicious and vibrant Buddha Bowl using Charred Tomato Salsa, follow these steps:
- Base: Start with a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice as the foundation of your Buddha Bowl.
- Protein: Add your choice of protein, such as grilled chicken, black beans, or sautéed tofu, for a satisfying boost of nutrients.
- Roasted Veggies: Roast a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Avocado: Slice some creamy avocado and place it on top of the bowl for healthy fats and a buttery taste.
- Charred Tomato Salsa: Spoon a generous amount of the smoky and tangy Charred Tomato Salsa over the bowl for a burst of flavor.
- Garnish: Finish off with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a delightful finish.
Learn more about healthy, time-saving (and money-saving, too!) Buddha Bowl recipes here.
Ingredients To Make This Charred Tomato Salsa Recipe
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 roma tomatoes
- 1 jalapeno
- ¼ large red onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
collage of charred tomato salsa ingredients
How To Make Charred Tomato Salsa
- In a large saute pan over medium heat add oil, whole tomatoes, whole jalapeno, onion, and garlic cloves.
- Rotate the vegetables until blistered and charred all over, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the cloves (remove them).
- Add all charred ingredients, plus the rest of the ingredients to a blender.
- Pulse until desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper.
Enjoy your homemade Charred Tomato Salsa and savor the rich history and flavors of this beloved Mexican condiment!
Charred Tomato Salsa Recipe
Ingredients
Charred Tomato Salsa : Yields 1 ½ cups
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 roma tomatoes
- 1 jalapeno
- ¼ large red onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
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In a large saute pan over medium heat add oil, whole tomatoes, whole jalapeno, onion, and garlic cloves.
-
Rotate the vegetables until blistered and charred all over, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the cloves (remove them).
-
Add all charred ingredients, plus the rest of the ingredients to a blender.
-
Pulse until desired consistency.
-
Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper.
Nutrition
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