Description
Chili de Arbol Salsa is a vibrant and spicy Mexican salsa made with toasted dried arbol chilies, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and onions. This versatile salsa offers a smoky, fiery kick perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or as a zesty dipping sauce. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it brings authentic bold flavors to your table in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chilies
- 6-8 dried arbol chilies
Vegetables
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup onion
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 cup water (more if needed)
Instructions
- Toast the chilies: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the dried arbol chilies for about 1-2 minutes, flipping them frequently to prevent burning. Toast until they become aromatic, releasing their fragrant smoky flavor.
- Prepare the ingredients: Remove the stems and seeds from the toasted chilies. Roughly chop the tomatoes, onion, and garlic to prepare for cooking.
- Cook the tomatoes and aromatics: In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Then add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and develop slight charring.
- Blend the salsa: Transfer the toasted chilies, cooked tomatoes, garlic, onion, salt, sugar (if using), and 1/2 cup water into a blender. Blend until smooth, adding more water progressively if the salsa is too thick, to reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salsa and adjust the salt and sugar according to your preference to balance the heat and acidity.
- Serve: Pour the salsa into a bowl and serve immediately with your favorite dishes. Alternatively, store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Adjust the number of chilies for desired spiciness.
- Removing seeds reduces heat but retains flavor.
- Add more water for a thinner salsa consistency.
- Can be refrigerated up to 7 days in an airtight container.
- Perfect accompaniment for tacos, grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce.
