Mexican Charred Tomatillo Salsa

Name: Mexican Charred Tomatillo Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 lbs of fresh tomatillos, with husks removed; 10 dried chile de arbol peppers; 2 cloves of garlic, unpeeled; Salt to taste

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By AprilPublished Aug 6, 2023

Are you a fan of Mexican cuisine? Do you love the flavors of tangy tomatillos and fiery chilies?

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Prep: 15 min
Cook: 15 min
Total: 30 min
Servings: 8

Method

Line a heavy cast iron grill pan or griddle with aluminum foil and heat it over high heat.
Arrange tomatillos, chiles de arbol, and garlic in a single layer on top of the foil. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes, turning the chiles as needed, until they are blackened. Transfer them to a bowl.
Continue grilling the tomatillos and garlic until they are evenly blackened, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes more.
Peel the garlic and place it in a mortar and pestle. Season with salt and pound it into a thick paste.
Add the blackened chiles to the mortar and pound until the mixture is smooth.
Add as many grilled tomatillos as you can fit into the mortar and pound until the salsa has a chunky consistency.
Transfer the salsa to a bowl and repeat the process with the remaining tomatillos, adding them to the bowl of salsa in batches.
Once the chiles and garlic are charred, remove them from the grill as they will finish before the tomatillos.
Keep in mind that this salsa requires a generous amount of salt for seasoning.

About this recipe

Are you a fan of Mexican cuisine? Do you love the flavors of tangy tomatillos and fiery chilies? If so, then you're in for a treat with this delicious and versatile Mexican Charred Tomatillo Salsa. Whether you're planning a taco night or looking to add a zesty kick to your favorite grilled meats, this salsa is sure to be a hit.

The Magic of Tomatillos

Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a moment to appreciate the star ingredient of this salsa - the tomatillo. With its bright green color and papery husk, the tomatillo might resemble a small green tomato, but it has a distinct tart flavor that sets it apart. When charred, the tomatillo takes on a smoky sweetness that adds depth to any dish.

Charring for Flavor

One of the secrets to achieving the rich flavors of this salsa is the process of charring. By exposing the tomatillos, onions, and chilies to direct heat, we create a charred and slightly smoky taste that elevates the salsa to a whole new level. So, fire up that grill or preheat your broiler, because it's time to get charring!

Recipe

Here's a breakdown of the ingredients and steps to make your very own Mexican Charred Tomatillo Salsa:

Ingredients:

Tomatillos
Onion
Jalapeno or Serrano chili
Cilantro
Lime juice
Salt

Steps:

Preheat your grill or broiler to high heat.
Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse them well.
Place the tomatillos, onion, and chili on the grill or under the broiler until they are charred and slightly softened.
Allow the charred ingredients to cool before transferring them to a blender or food processor.
Add cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste.
Pulse the mixture until you achieve your desired consistency.
Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ways to Enjoy

Now that you have your homemade Mexican Charred Tomatillo Salsa, it's time to explore all the ways you can enjoy it. This salsa is incredibly versatile and can be used in many dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Dip tortilla chips into the salsa for a quick and flavorful snack.
Use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
Drizzle it over grilled meats, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp, for an extra burst of flavor.
Mix it with avocado for a creamy and tangy guacamole.
Add it to scrambled eggs or omelets for a breakfast with a Mexican twist.

In Conclusion

Mexican Charred Tomatillo Salsa is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. With its tangy tomatillos, charred onions, and fiery chilies, this salsa is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let the magic of charring create a salsa that will tantalize your taste buds.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use green tomatoes instead of tomatillos?: No, green tomatoes have a different flavor profile and won't give you the same tangy taste as tomatillos. Stick to using tomatillos for this salsa.
. How long can I store the salsa?: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salsa can last for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving.
. Can I adjust the spiciness of the salsa?: Absolutely! If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the chili before charring it. For an extra kick, add more chilies or try using a spicier variety.
. Can I freeze the salsa?: Yes, you can freeze the salsa in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
. Can I substitute cilantro with another herb?: If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor of the salsa.
. Can I use this salsa as a marinade?: Absolutely! The smoky and tangy flavors of this salsa make it an excellent marinade for grilled meats. Simply coat your meat with the salsa and let it marinate for a few hours before cooking.
. Can I add other ingredients to customize the salsa?: Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add ingredients like roasted garlic, roasted corn, or even mango for a unique twist on this classic salsa.
. Is this salsa spicy?: The spice level of the salsa depends on the type and amount of chili you use. If you prefer a mild salsa, opt for a jalapeno and remove the seeds. For a spicier version, use a serrano chili or leave the seeds in.