Bright, tangy, roasted salsa perfect for chips, tacos, and everything in between. Made in minutes with minimal ingredients.
FEATURED STANDOUTS
Tomatillos
As the undisputed star of this salsa, tomatillos provide a distinctive bright, tart, and subtly fruity base. When roasted, their flavor mellows and deepens, offering a complex foundation upon which the other ingredients can build. Their unique acidity is what gives tomatillo salsa its characteristic tang.
Poblano Pepper
These mild chili peppers are essential for adding a beautiful depth of flavor and a gentle, earthy heat. Roasting the poblano peppers not only softens their texture but also unlocks a smoky sweetness that complements the tartness of the tomatillos. Their rich, verdant color also contributes to the salsa’s visual appeal.
Jalapeños
For those who appreciate a kick, jalapeños are the go-to chili. Their vibrant, fresh heat can be customized to your preference. To achieve a spicier salsa, it is recommended to include the seeds and membranes, as these contain the highest concentration of capsaicin, the compound responsible for the pepper’s heat. For a milder version, simply remove them before roasting or blending.
Garlic
A fundamental aromatic in countless cuisines, garlic’s role here is transformed through roasting. When roasted alongside the other vegetables, its sharp, pungent bite mellows considerably, giving way to a rich, sweet, and nutty flavor that integrates seamlessly into the salsa, adding a layer of depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Cilantro
This fresh herb is a critical component for adding a bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the roasted vegetables. Its distinctive aroma and flavor are synonymous with authentic Mexican and Latin American salsas, providing an essential layer of freshness.
Lime
Fresh lime juice is an indispensable ingredient, serving as a bright, acidic counterpoint to the roasted flavors. It acts as a natural flavor enhancer, waking up the palate and balancing the inherent richness and earthiness of the roasted tomatillos, poblanos, and garlic. A squeeze of fresh lime at the end of the process is often the final touch that brings all the flavors into harmony.
Salt
The judicious use of salt is paramount for optimal flavor. Kosher or sea salt is recommended due to their cleaner taste and ability to bring out the natural flavors of the other ingredients without adding any harshness. Salt enhances sweetness, reduces bitterness, and generally makes all the other flavors in the salsa pop. It’s crucial to taste and adjust the salt level throughout the preparation to achieve perfect seasoning.
TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST SMALL BATCH TOMATILLO SALSA
Keep the Char for Smoky Flavor
Don’t shy away from a good char on your tomatillos, poblanos, and jalapeños. Roasting these vegetables, whether on a comal, under the broiler, or in a dry pan, develops a rich, smoky depth that is crucial for authentic salsa flavor. The slight bitterness from the char adds complexity and intrigue.
Don’t Over-Blend—Chunky is Better
While some salsas are smooth, a truly satisfying tomatillo salsa benefits from a slightly chunky texture. This allows you to appreciate the individual components and provides a more substantial mouthfeel. Pulse your roasted ingredients in a food processor or use a molcajete (mortar and pestle) for a more rustic texture. Over-blending can result in a thin, unappealing consistency.
Salt + Lime Are the Final Flavor Boosters
Think of salt and lime juice as your final seasoning powerhouses. After blending, taste your salsa and adjust with salt until the flavors sing. The lime juice will cut through the richness, brighten the overall profile, and add a zesty finish that makes all the ingredients pop. Don’t add too much initially; it’s easier to add more than to correct an over-salted or over-acidic salsa.
Inclusive Adaptations
Blend Smoother for Those with Texture Sensitivities
For individuals who prefer a smoother consistency, feel free to blend the salsa for a longer duration until it reaches a very fine, uniform texture. A high-speed blender can achieve a silky-smooth result.
Reduce or Remove Jalapeños for Low-Heat Needs
The heat level of jalapeños can vary greatly. To accommodate those with a lower tolerance for spice, you can reduce the number of jalapeños used, or remove them entirely. You can also deseed and remove the white membranes from the jalapeños, as these contain most of the capsaicin (the compound responsible for the heat). For a truly mild salsa, bell peppers can be roasted and used as a substitute for the jalapeños.
Use Oven Mitts and a Stable Cutting Surface for Mobility Assistance
When handling hot roasted vegetables, always prioritize safety. For individuals with limited mobility or dexterity, using thick, heat-resistant oven mitts is crucial. Additionally, ensure your cutting surface is stable and non-slip to prevent accidents while chopping or dicing ingredients. Consider using a damp cloth or a non-slip mat underneath your cutting board for added security. Pre-chopped ingredients can also be a helpful shortcut.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE SMALL BATCH TOMATILLO SALSA
Cast iron skillet
Blender or food processor
Knife
Cutting board
SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO
BBQ GRILLED MEATBALLS + TEXAS TOAST
Za’atar Spiced Meatballs
Spaghetti & Smoked Pork Meatballs
ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH
Creamy Asiago Kale
Citrus Pepper Tilapia + Serrano Pineapple Yellow Rice.
Black Pepper Crawfish & Asparagus Fried Rice + Spicy Mayo
RECIPE
SMALL BATCH TOMATILLO SALSA
Ingredients
Method
- Broil Vegetables: In a dry cast iron skillet, place the tomatillos, onion, garlic, poblano pepper, and jalapeños. Broil for 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, blistered, and slightly blackened.
- Blend Ingredients: Transfer the broiled vegetables (keep the skins on) to a blender. Add the fresh cilantro, the juice of one lime, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Process Salsa: Blend on low speed until the ingredients are broken down, but the salsa still retains a slightly chunky texture.
- Season and Serve: Taste the salsa and adjust seasoning as needed with additional lime juice (for acidity) or salt. Serve immediately.