Salsa de Chile de Arbol
Salsa de Chile de Arbol is a traditional Mexican hot sauce that’s thinner, smoother, and more blended than chunky salsas.
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ ounce (about 25 medium dried chile de árbol), stemmed but not seeded
- 2 dried guajillo chiles (about ½ ounce), stemmed, seeded, and torn into flat pieces
- 3 garlic cloves , unpeeled
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice , lime juice, or apple cider vinegar
- Kosher salt , to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the dried chile de árbol, stirring often, until fragrant and darkened in spots, about 1 minute.
- Transfer to a bowl. Add the guajillo chiles and press them flat against the skillet. Toast until the insides lighten in color and release their aroma, then flip and toast the other side.
- Transfer to the same bowl, cover with hot tap water, and place a plate on top to keep them submerged.
- In the same skillet, roast the unpeeled garlic cloves and onion over medium heat, turning occasionally, until softened and blackened in spots, 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool slightly, then peel.
- Place the roasted garlic and onion in a blender. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the soaked chiles to the blender along with ½ to 1 cup of their soaking liquid. Blend until almost smooth, leaving a little texture.
- Scrape the salsa into a serving dish, stir in the lemon juice (or lime juice/vinegar), and season generously with kosher salt, about ½ teaspoon or to taste.
Notes
Storage: Once cooled, transfer the salsa to a clean, airtight jar or container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Make Ahead: The salsa tastes even better after resting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. You can easily prepare it a day in advance.
Freezing: Not recommended — this salsa is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Salsa de Chile de Arbol
Amount per Serving
Calories
5
% Daily Value*
Fat
0.1
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
0.01
g
0
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.04
g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.01
g
Sodium
1
mg
0
%
Potassium
28
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
1
g
0
%
Fiber
0.4
g
2
%
Sugar
1
g
1
%
Protein
0.2
g
0
%
Vitamin A
351
IU
7
%
Vitamin C
1
mg
1
%
Calcium
2
mg
0
%
Iron
0.1
mg
1
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
