How to Make Salsa Verde Three Ways
August 15, 2024
Let’s make three different types of salsa verde today. All of these can be used for topping tacos or in enchiladas or as dips. I am making a spicy, medium and mild one for you.
Origin of Salsa Verde
Salsa verde, which translates to “green sauce” in Spanish, is a classic Mexican condiment that has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. The primary ingredient in traditional Mexican salsa verde is tomatillos, a small, green fruit that resembles a tomato but has a slightly tart flavor. Tomatillos are native to Mexico and Central America, and they have been cultivated by indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
The origins of salsa verde can be traced back to pre-Columbian times, when the Aztecs and other Mesoamerican cultures used tomatillos in their cooking. These ancient civilizations would prepare sauces similar to what we now know as salsa verde by combining tomatillos with other native ingredients such as chilies, garlic, and herbs. This sauce was used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, from meats to vegetables.
Over time, as Spanish colonization introduced new ingredients and cooking techniques, salsa verde evolved and became more varied. However, the basic recipe of blending tomatillos with chilies, garlic, and other seasonings has remained largely unchanged, preserving its traditional roots.
Uses of Salsa Verde
Salsa verde is incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways to enhance the flavor of various dishes. Here are some of the most common uses:
Topping for Tacos:
Salsa verde is a popular topping for tacos, especially those filled with grilled meats like carne asada, carnitas, or chicken. The tangy, slightly spicy flavor of the salsa complements the rich, savory taste of the meat.
Sauce for Enchiladas:
Enchiladas verdes, or green enchiladas, are made by rolling tortillas around a filling of chicken, cheese, or beans, and then smothering them in salsa verde. The salsa is often mixed with crema (Mexican sour cream) to create a creamy, tangy sauce that bakes into the dish.
Dip for Chips:
Salsa verde is frequently served as a dip for tortilla chips. Its bright, fresh flavor makes it a perfect snack or appetizer, often paired with guacamole and other salsas.
Garnish for Soups:
In Mexican cuisine, salsa verde is sometimes used as a garnish for soups, such as pozole or tortilla soup. It adds a fresh, zesty note that balances the richness of the broth.
Marinade or Basting Sauce:
Salsa verde can be used as a marinade for meats, particularly chicken or pork. The acidity of the tomatillos helps tenderize the meat, while the flavors infuse it with a delicious taste. It can also be used as a basting sauce while grilling or roasting.
Topping for Eggs:
A spoonful of salsa verde can elevate a simple breakfast dish like scrambled eggs, omelets, or huevos rancheros. The tangy and slightly spicy notes brighten up the flavors of the eggs.
Side Sauce for Grilled Vegetables:
Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms can be dressed with salsa verde for a burst of flavor. The sauce adds a vibrant contrast to the smokiness of the grilled vegetables.
Condiment for Seafood:
Salsa verde pairs wonderfully with seafood, such as grilled shrimp, fish tacos, or ceviche. Its fresh, citrusy notes complement the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Salsa verde’s versatility and bright, refreshing flavor make it a beloved condiment in Mexican cuisine and beyond. Whether used as a topping, dip, sauce, or marinade, it brings a unique taste to a wide variety of dishes.
Spicy Jalapeño Salsa
Ingredients:
5 jalapeños
2 serranos
Piece of white onion
2 garlic cloves (unpeeled) + 1/2 raw garlic clove
1/4 cup oil
1/2 cup water
Salt, to taste
Instructions:
Char the Vegetables:
In a dry, very hot pan (preferably cast iron), char the jalapeños, serranos, onion, and unpeeled garlic cloves until they are blistered and soft. Set aside to cool.
Blend the Ingredients:
Remove the stems from the chilies and place them in a blender along with the charred onion. Peel the garlic cloves and add them to the blender along with the raw garlic, oil, and water.
Season and Serve:
Blend until the salsa is smooth. Add salt to taste and enjoy!
Medium Jalapeño Salsa
Ingredients:
8 tomatillos
2 serranos
1 jalapeño
2 garlic cloves + 1/2 large garlic clove
Piece of white onion
Handful of cilantro
1/8 tsp cumin
1 tablespoon oil
Salt, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Tomatillos:
Husk and wash the tomatillos. Place them in a pan and cover with water. Add the 2 garlic cloves and onion. Simmer for about 20 minutes, until the tomatillos are no longer bright green.
Blend the Ingredients:
Remove the tomatillos, onion, and garlic from the water and place them in a blender. Press down to extract the juice from the tomatillos.
Season and Blend:
Add the remaining ingredients (serranos, jalapeño, cilantro, cumin, oil, and salt) to the blender and blend until smooth.
Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the salsa with your favorite dishes.
Mild Jalapeño Salsa
Ingredients:
2 small avocados
1 large jalapeño (half seeded and membrane removed)
Handful of cilantro
Juice of 1/2 a lime
Water, as needed
Salt, to taste
Instructions:
Blend the Ingredients:
Place all of the ingredients in a blender, including the avocados, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice.
Adjust Consistency:
Add water as needed to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Season and Serve:
Add salt to taste, blend again, and serve the salsa with your favorite dishes.