Smoked salsa is a flavorful twist on the classic salsa. This version brings in an added depth of smoky flavors by grilling or smoking the tomatoes, peppers, and other ingredients before mixing them together. The smoky essence infuses the salsa, transforming it from the regular fresh taste to a bold, rich, and savory treat. Perfect for dipping chips, topping tacos, or even adding a unique flavor to grilled meats, smoked salsa offers a distinctive experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Quick Facts
| Course | Appetizer, Side Dish |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Mexican |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Calories | 25-30 per serving |
Equipment Needed
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following equipment:
- Grill or Smoker – For that essential smoky flavor.
- Blender or Food Processor – To blend all the ingredients into a perfect salsa texture.
- Tongs – To handle the hot vegetables on the grill.
- Cutting Board & Knife – For chopping ingredients.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine all your fresh, smoky ingredients.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this smoky treat:
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 2 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill or Smoker: Preheat your grill or smoker to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure to oil the grates slightly to avoid sticking.
- Grill the Veggies: Place the tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, and garlic on the grill. Cook until the skins of the tomatoes begin to blacken, and the peppers and onions get a nice char (about 10-15 minutes). Keep turning the vegetables for an even smokey effect.
- Peel the Garlic: Once the vegetables are charred, remove them from the grill. Peel the garlic and remove the stems from the jalapeños.
- Blend the Ingredients: Add the grilled tomatoes, peppers, onion, and garlic to a blender or food processor. Blend until you reach your desired salsa consistency. If you like a chunkier salsa, pulse lightly.
- Season and Finish: Add the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend again to mix everything evenly.
- Serve: Transfer your smoked salsa to a bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled meats!
Essential Note
- Smoky Flavor Tip: If you don’t have a grill or smoker, you can achieve a similar smoky flavor by roasting the vegetables in the oven with a touch of smoked paprika.
- Adjusting Spice Level: The jalapeños can be deseeded for a milder salsa or leave the seeds in for extra heat.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25-30 |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Potassium | 200mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 100 IU |
| Vitamin C | 15mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
| Iron | 0.5mg |
Recipe Notes
- Smoked salsa is best served fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer your salsa to be less smoky, reduce the grilling time slightly.
- For extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for more spice.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Grill Marks Matter: The longer you char the tomatoes and peppers, the more intense the smoky flavor will be. However, avoid burning the vegetables to ensure the flavor remains fresh and not overly bitter.
- Blend for Texture: The texture of the salsa is key. Blend briefly if you prefer a chunkier salsa, or blend for longer if you like it smooth.
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not into spicy foods, use fewer jalapeños or substitute with milder peppers like bell peppers or poblano for a similar flavor without the heat.
Conclusion
Smoked salsa is a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that adds a smoky twist to your regular salsa. With just a few key ingredients and some grilling time, you can create a savory, tangy dip that will elevate any meal. Whether served with chips, tacos, or grilled meats, this salsa offers a delightful and unique flavor profile that will leave your guests asking for more. So fire up the grill and enjoy this smoky delight today!
