Smoky Spicy Tomatillo Salsa Verde - Hellfire Edition
Dive into the bold flavors of this Smoky Spicy Tomatillo Salsa Verde - Hellfire Edition! This vibrant green salsa packs a fiery punch with the heat of fresh habanero peppers and smoky chipotle chiles. The zesty brightness of tomatillos, the aromatic richness of garlic and onion, and the freshness of herbs come together in perfect harmony. It's a versatile condiment that complements tacos, grilled meats, or as a zesty dip with tortilla chips. This salsa is not only a flavor explosion but also brings a refreshing twist to your palate. Get ready to embrace the heat!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tomatillo
1 lb (Cut into quarters)
Habanero pepper
1 (Seeds and all)
Onion
1 (Rough chopped)
Garlic cloves
3 (Whole)
Chipotle chile in adobo
1-2 (Whole)
Lime
1 (Juice of)
Fresh parsley or fresh basil
1 cup (Chopped (use a mix of both for added flavor))
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your grill or broiler to medium-high heat to add a smoky flavor to the tomatillos.
2
Arrange the quartered tomatillos on a grill pan or a baking sheet and grill or broil until they are slightly charred and softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3
In a blender or food processor, combine the grilled tomatillos, habanero pepper, rough-chopped onion, garlic cloves, and chipotle chiles. Adjust the number of chipotles to your desired spice level.
4
Add the juice of one lime and your choice of parsley or basil for a herby punch.
5
Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
6
Blend the mixture until smooth or to your desired consistency, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
7
Transfer the salsa to a bowl, cover, and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this salsa the Hellfire Edition?
This version is called the Hellfire Edition because it combines the intense heat of a fresh habanero pepper with the smoky spice of chipotle chiles in adobo.
How do I prepare the tomatillos for this recipe?
You should remove the husks, wash them, quarter them, and then grill or broil them for 5-7 minutes until charred and softened.
Can I adjust the spice level of this salsa?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the number of chipotle chiles or by removing the seeds from the habanero pepper.
Is this Smoky Spicy Tomatillo Salsa Verde vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it 100% vegan.
Is this salsa gluten-free?
Yes, all the fresh ingredients and spices listed are naturally gluten-free.
What should I serve with this salsa?
It is a versatile condiment that pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or as a dip for tortilla chips.
Do I need to peel the garlic before blending?
Yes, the garlic cloves should be peeled before being added to the blender or food processor.
Why do I need to chill the salsa for 30 minutes?
Chilling the salsa allows the various flavors from the herbs, peppers, and charred tomatillos to meld and develop fully.
Can I use cilantro instead of parsley or basil?
While the recipe calls for parsley or basil for a specific herby punch, cilantro is a common substitute in salsa verde if you prefer it.
How long will this salsa last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, this fresh salsa will typically stay good for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use canned tomatillos instead of fresh ones?
Fresh tomatillos are recommended for the smoky charred effect, but canned tomatillos can be used in a pinch, though the flavor profile will change.
What is the purpose of grilling the tomatillos?
Grilling or broiling adds a deep, smoky dimension to the flavor that complements the spicy peppers.
How many habanero peppers should I use?
The recipe calls for one habanero pepper, including the seeds for maximum heat, but you can use less if you are sensitive to spice.
What kind of onion is best for this salsa?
A standard white or yellow onion works best for the sharp, aromatic richness required in this recipe.
Can I make this salsa in a food processor?
Yes, either a blender or a food processor can be used to achieve your desired consistency.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe uses 1 lb of tomatillos and yields approximately 2 to 3 cups of salsa, depending on the desired consistency.
Should I use fresh or bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is highly recommended to provide the best zesty brightness and acidity.
Is it okay to use both parsley and basil?
Yes, using a mix of both herbs can add a unique and complex flavor profile to the salsa.
Can I freeze this salsa verde?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months, though the texture might become slightly more watery upon thawing.
What if I cannot find chipotle in adobo?
You can substitute with a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne, though it won't have the exact same depth.
How do I know when the tomatillos are charred enough?
Look for black spots on the skins and a softened, slightly collapsing texture.
Do I need to add water to the blender?
Generally, the juice from the grilled tomatillos and lime is enough, but you can add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner salsa.
Is this salsa very high in calories?
No, this salsa is made mostly of vegetables and herbs, making it a low-calorie condiment option.
Does the salsa get hotter the longer it sits?
The flavors meld over time, and sometimes the heat of the habanero can feel more pronounced after a day in the fridge.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Absolutely, the acidity and spices make it an excellent marinade for chicken, pork, or shrimp.
Is it necessary to use salt and pepper?
Salt is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the tomatillos and peppers, so season generously to your taste.
Can I use a different type of hot pepper?
You can use serrano or jalapeño peppers for a milder heat, but it will no longer be the 'Hellfire Edition'.
What consistency should the salsa be?
You can blend it until it is completely smooth or leave it slightly chunky depending on your personal preference.
How do I handle the habanero safely?
It is recommended to wear gloves when cutting habaneros and avoid touching your eyes or face.
Can I add avocado to this recipe?
Yes, adding a ripe avocado while blending can create a creamier version of this spicy salsa verde.