Chunky Salsa
This Chunky Salsa recipe is perfect for adding a fresh, zesty kick to any meal or snack! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, colorful peppers, and aromatic herbs, this salsa is both versatile and easy to make.
Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or as a side to grilled meats, this chunky salsa will elevate your dining experience.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up a bountiful harvest of tomatoes during peak season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Bursting with Freshness: This salsa is made with ripe, juicy tomatoes, giving it a fresh and vibrant taste. The combination of tomatoes with crunchy onions, aromatic garlic, and zesty peppers creates a medley of flavors that is both refreshing and invigorating.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The mixture of sweet, spicy, and tangy elements in this salsa provides a well-balanced flavor profile. The sweetness of the tomatoes and sugar complements the heat from the jalapeño peppers, while the vinegar adds a tangy kick, creating a harmonious blend.
Customizable Spice Level: By adjusting the amount and type of peppers used, you can easily tailor the heat level to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile option for both those who enjoy mild flavors and those who crave a spicier kick.
Nutrient-Rich and Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this salsa is a nutritious addition to any meal. It’s rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a healthy choice for snacking or as a topping.
Ideal for Entertaining: Whether served with tortilla chips or as a condiment for tacos and grilled meats, Chunky Salsa is a crowd-pleaser that adds vibrant color and flavor to any gathering. Its make-ahead nature allows you to prepare it in advance, enhancing its convenience as a party favorite.
Key Ingredients:
Tomatoes: The foundation of the salsa, ripe red tomatoes provide a juicy, sweet, and slightly tangy base. They are the main source of flavor and texture, making the salsa both refreshing and hearty.
Anaheim or Poblano Peppers: These peppers add a mild heat and earthy flavor to the salsa. They contribute to the chunky texture and provide a subtle spice that enhances the overall taste.
Jalapeño or Serrano Peppers: For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, these peppers add a more pronounced heat. Adjusting the amount used allows you to control the spiciness of the salsa to your liking.
Onion: Coarsely chopped onions add a crisp texture and a sharp, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the heat of the peppers.
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh cilantro (or parsley as an alternative) adds a bright, herbal note to the salsa, enhancing its fresh and zesty character.
Garlic: Minced garlic provides an aromatic depth and a savory punch, enriching the salsa with its distinctive flavor.
Vinegar: The vinegar adds acidity and tanginess, helping to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and the heat of the peppers, while also acting as a preservative to extend the salsa’s shelf life.
How to make Chunky Salsa
Ingredients
20 red medium tomatoes (7 pounds)
10 fresh Anaheim chile peppers or poblano chile peppers, seeded and chopped (about 3 cups)
3 fresh jalapeno peppers or serrano chile peppers, seeded and chopped (about 1/3 cup)
2 cup coarsely chopped onion
½ cup snipped fresh cilantro or parsley
5 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
Peel, seed, and coarsely chop tomatoes (you should have about 14 cups).
Place tomatoes in a large colander; let drain 30 minutes.
Place tomatoes in 8-quart Dutch oven.
Bring to boiling; reduce heat.
Simmer, uncovered, for 45 to 50 minutes or until thickened (consistency of chunky salsa); stir frequently.
Stir in Anaheim peppers, jalapeño peppers, onions, cilantro, garlic, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Return to boiling.
Remove from heat.
Cover and chill in refrigerator at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
Notes:
Preparation: This recipe requires substantial preparation, including peeling, seeding, and chopping a large quantity of tomatoes. It’s important to have all ingredients ready before starting.
Draining Tomatoes: Draining the chopped tomatoes in a colander helps remove excess liquid, which is crucial for achieving the desired chunky consistency of the salsa.
Cooking Time: Simmering the tomatoes for 45 to 50 minutes allows them to thicken, intensifying the flavors and creating the chunky texture characteristic of salsa.
Variety of Peppers: The recipe calls for both Anaheim and jalapeño peppers, providing a balance of flavor and heat. Adjust the quantity or type of peppers according to personal preference for spiciness.
Chilling: Allowing the salsa to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours enhances the flavors as they meld together. This step is essential for achieving the best taste.
Adjusting Seasonings: Taste the salsa before chilling and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You may want to add more salt, sugar, or vinegar based on personal preference.
Storage: Once prepared, the salsa can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for several days. It’s versatile and can be used as a condiment, dip, or topping for various dishes.
Customization: Feel free to customize the salsa by adding additional ingredients such as lime juice, diced mango, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the chunky salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, quesadillas, or grilled meats. It’s also great as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.
Batch Size: This recipe makes a large batch of salsa, perfect for parties or gatherings. However, you can easily halve the ingredients for a smaller portion. Adjust the quantities based on your needs and preferences.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 8 bowl | SERVING SIZE: 1 bowl
Calories: 36 | Total Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 131mg | Total Carbohydrates: 8.1g | Dietary Fiber: 1.7g | Sugars: 4.8g | Protein: 1.4g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I adjust the spiciness of the salsa?
Yes, you can control the spiciness by adjusting the quantity and type of peppers used.
For a milder salsa, reduce the amount of jalapeño or serrano peppers.
How long does it take to prepare the salsa?
The preparation time depends on the chopping and cooking process.
Expect to spend about 30 minutes on preparation and approximately 45 to 50 minutes for cooking.
Can I substitute the Anaheim chile peppers with poblano peppers?
Yes, you can use poblano peppers instead of Anaheim chile peppers.
Both varieties provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor to the salsa.
How should I store the salsa after making it?
Once prepared, store the chunky salsa in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
It can be kept for several days, allowing the flavors to develop further.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
While fresh tomatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute.
However, drain excess liquid from canned tomatoes before using them.
Is it necessary to chill the salsa before serving?
Chilling the salsa for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours is recommended as it allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
However, you can serve it immediately if desired.
What is the purpose of sugar in the recipe?
Sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salsa.
Adjust the amount of sugar according to personal taste preference.
Can I freeze the salsa for future use?
Yes, you can freeze the salsa in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving, and stir well to recombine any separated liquids.
What dishes can I serve with this chunky salsa?
Chunky salsa pairs well with tortilla chips, tacos, quesadillas, grilled meats, or as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.
It adds a fresh and flavorful element to various dishes.
Can I customize the recipe by adding other ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salsa by adding ingredients such as lime juice, diced mango, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences.