Similar to all my recipes and thoughts on the cooking, home-made salsa truly is so much better than the jar. It truly doesn't take too much time or energy either. Having grown up in Southern California, the Mexican food mecca, I have tried many forms of this tomato based dip. Most recipes call for the traditional combination of the following... Spanish onion, jalapeno, lime, tomato, cilantro, and salt. Through mucho experimentation I have come up with this "ultimate Pico de Gallo". Take that Tyler Florence (for those that watch Food Network). Rather than using Spanish onion, I actually prefer the flavor of red onion or shallots. First off, I don't really like the idea of completely killing my breath for days after eating some chips and salsa. Unless sauteed, white onions are just way too potent for me. Red onion used in moderation is a bit more mild with a slightly sweet edge which I think accents the spice of the jalapeno nicely. Instead of sea salt or regular table salt, I like using garlic salt. Enough said on that one, anything garlic flavored adds an amazing touch. And now for my secret ingredient.... honey. With all of the spice and earthiness from the lime, cilantro, and jalapeno, the honey softens each bite while still preserving the spicy kick from the pepper. Finally, the ingredients are crucial but the technique creates perfection. Dicing by hand is a bit too chunky and the ingredients don't fuse to their greatest potential of flavor. Blending almost makes the mixture too watery. I truly believe the ultimate Pico de Gallo is achieved by pulses on a food processor. My advice... follow the recipe below, pop a light beer or make a margarita, and the fiesta is on!
Ultimate Pico de Gallo
- 7 Roma tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion
- 1-2 jalapeno depending on spice preference
- 1 1/2 limes squeezed
- 1 handful cilantro
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- 1-2 tsp garlic salt
Chop first three ingredients to make easier on food processor. Combine all ingredients in processor and pulse lightly until all chunks are gone.
Ultimate Pico de Gallo
- 7 Roma tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion
- 1-2 jalapeno depending on spice preference
- 1 1/2 limes squeezed
- 1 handful cilantro
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- 1-2 tsp garlic salt
Chop first three ingredients to make easier on food processor. Combine all ingredients in processor and pulse lightly until all chunks are gone.
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