Skip to main content

Charred Habanero Salsa

3.4

(7)

The habanero, reputedly the "hottest chile in the world" has a complex, citrusy aroma and flavor. This salsa from the Yucatan is a classic accompaniment to meat and seafood cooked in an achiote recado a brick-red paste made with achiote, or annatto, seeds.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes about 1 cup

Ingredients

3 plum tomatoes
1/2 to 3 fresh habanero chiles*
1/4 cup water
1/8 teaspoon coarse salt, or to taste
*Available at Mexican markets, specialty produce markets, and some supermarkets.

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat a dry comal or flat iron griddle over moderately low heat until hot and pan-roast tomatoes and habaneros, turning them occasionally to ensure even roasting, until browned and soft throughout, 25 to 30 minutes. Discard tomato stems and wearing rubber gloves, stem and seed chiles.

    Step 2

    In a blender purée tomatoes, chiles, water, and salt until smooth. (Salsa may be made 10 hours ahead and chilled, covered. Bring salsa to room temperature before serving.)

La Parilla: The Mexican Grill, published by Chronicle Books.
Read More
Like “absolutely decadent” chocolate pudding and fattoush salad.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.
Like lemony risotto and tandoori-style cauliflower.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
The most efficient method takes less than an hour, but you might not even need it.