Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this smoky, savory salsa:
- 6 Roma tomatoes
- 1 red onion
- 2 jalapeños
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste
These fresh ingredients form the base of a salsa that’s tangy, slightly spicy, and bursting with smoke-infused flavor.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Smoker
Set your smoker to 225°F. This low and slow method ensures the vegetables absorb all the wonderful smoky flavor without burning.
2. Prep the Vegetables
- Quarter the Roma tomatoes, jalapeños, and bell pepper.
- Peel the garlic cloves.
- Cut the red onion into 8 wedges, keeping the root on to help them stay intact during smoking.
3. Smoke the Ingredients
Place the prepped vegetables in the smoker and let them smoke at 225°F for 90 to 120 minutes, or until they’re softened and slightly charred. This process is what gives the salsa its signature smoky flavor.
4. Cool and Chop
Remove the vegetables from the smoker and allow them to cool slightly. Then, either:
- Finely chop everything for a chunky salsa, or
- Use a food processor or blender for a smoother consistency.
Make sure to collect and stir back in any juices released during the chopping or blending.
5. Final Touches
Stir in the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
6. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate your salsa until fully chilled. It’s best enjoyed cold and will taste even better after the flavors meld for a few hours.
Best consumed within 3 days for peak freshness and flavor.
Benefits of This Craft
Making smoked salsa from scratch comes with several rewarding benefits:
- Elevated flavor: Smoking adds a rich, complex taste you won’t find in store-bought salsas.
- Customizable heat: You control the spice level by adjusting the jalapeños or removing seeds.
- No preservatives: Just whole, fresh ingredients with zero artificial additives.
- Versatile use: Great with chips, grilled vegetables, tacos, steak, or even scrambled eggs.
- Ideal for gatherings: A unique dip that impresses guests and elevates your appetizer spread.
Tips
Maximize the flavor and texture of your smoked salsa with these helpful tips:
- Keep the onion root intact: It prevents the wedges from falling apart while smoking. You can slice it off after smoking.
- Choose ripe Roma tomatoes: They offer the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Want more kick? Leave the seeds in both jalapeños. Prefer mild? Remove the seeds from both or just one.
- Let it chill fully: The flavor intensifies after a few hours in the fridge.
- Don’t skip the vinegar: It brightens the smoky flavors and adds a slight tang.
You can also experiment with other peppers or add a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.
What Does It Taste Like?
Smoked salsa has a deep, rich, and slightly sweet flavor profile that’s entirely different from raw or roasted versions. The tomatoes become juicy and slightly caramelized, the garlic mellows with a toasted edge, and the onion softens with a sweet-smoky depth.
The jalapeños offer a subtle heat that lingers on the tongue without overpowering, while the bell pepper brings a smooth sweetness that balances the spice. The final blend is complex yet balanced, with the vinegar adding just the right amount of zing.
Whether chunky or smooth, the result is a visually appealing salsa with a deep red hue and flecks of blackened skin for texture and flavor.
How to Store
This salsa is best stored in the refrigerator. Follow these simple tips for storage and freshness:
- Transfer to an airtight glass jar or container to preserve the flavor.
- Refrigerate immediately after preparing.
- Consume within 3 days for best flavor and safety.
- Stir before serving to redistribute any separated juices.
- Do not freeze, as the texture of the vegetables may become mushy when thawed.
If you plan to serve it at a party, store it cold and transfer to a bowl just before serving.
This smoked salsa recipe is a surefire way to impress with deep, layered flavors and a smoky aroma that elevates every dish. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a gourmet-style salsa right from your own kitchen. Whether served with chips or drizzled over grilled proteins, it’s a standout condiment that packs both flavor and character.