Description
Chile de Árbol Salsa is a spicy and smoky Mexican condiment made with dried chile de árbol peppers, tomatoes, and garlic. Perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or as a zesty dip for tortilla chips. Customize the heat to suit your taste!
Ingredients
- 15–20 dried chile de árbol peppers (adjust for spice level)
- 2 Roma tomatoes
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 medium onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
Instructions
- Toast the Chiles: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast chile de árbol peppers for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
- Cook Tomatoes & Garlic: In the same skillet, char the tomatoes, garlic, and onion until softened (5-7 minutes).
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine toasted chiles, charred veggies, salt, oil, and water. Blend until smooth. Add water for desired consistency.
- Optional Vinegar: Add vinegar for tanginess and pulse to combine.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or vinegar.
- Serve: Pour into a bowl and cool. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by reducing chiles or using milder varieties.
- For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes, garlic, and onion in the oven.
- Add lime juice or fresh cilantro for extra brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican