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Chile de Arbol Tomatillo Salsa Recipe

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4.3 from 12 reviews

This Chile de Arbol Tomatillo Salsa is a vibrant, smoky, and spicy sauce made by sautéing fresh tomatillos, jalapenos, tomato, and dried chile de arbol, then blending them with garlic, onion, and cilantro. Perfect for adding a fresh kick to tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip, this salsa combines charred flavors with bright, tangy notes for an authentic Mexican taste.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 2 1/2 cups, serves 2

Ingredients

Produce

  • 1 pound fresh tomatillos, husks removed and washed
  • 5-6 jalapenos
  • 1 large tomato (slicing tomato recommended)
  • 1 garlic clove, smashed
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion (white or yellow)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Dried Ingredients

  • 4-5 dried chile de arbol

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast the Vegetables: Add the fresh tomatillos, jalapenos, tomato, and dried chile de arbol to a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, using tongs to turn occasionally, until all sides are nicely charred, which enhances their smoky flavor.
  2. Blend the Salsa: Transfer the roasted tomatillos, jalapenos, tomato, and dried chiles to a food processor or blender. Add the smashed garlic, salt, and pepper. Puree until the mixture is smooth with no large chunks remaining.
  3. Mix in Fresh Ingredients: Pour the blended salsa into a bowl, then stir in the finely diced onion and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your taste.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Your Chile de Arbol Tomatillo Salsa is ready to enjoy. Serve it fresh as a condiment for tacos, grilled dishes, or as a tasty dip. This recipe yields about 2 1/2 cups.

Notes

  • For a milder salsa, reduce the number of jalapenos or remove seeds before cooking.
  • Use gloves when handling dried chile de arbol to avoid skin irritation.
  • Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Roasting the ingredients enhances the smoky depth but you can also grill them for additional flavor.
  • If the salsa is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency while blending.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican