Ancho Chipotle Salsa with a Smoky Kick

Name: Ancho Chipotle Salsa with a Smoky Kick
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 ancho chillies (dried); 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (canned); 1 large tomato (chopped); 1 small onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lime (juiced); 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar

30 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

This ancho chipotle salsa combines smoky, spicy flavours perfect for tacos or as a dip.

Prep

15 min

Cook

15 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Salsa is a beloved condiment that brings a burst of flavour to any dish. This ancho chipotle salsa takes the classic formula and infuses it with a smoky, spicy kick that will elevate your tacos, burritos, or even just a plain bowl of tortilla chips. The ancho chilli provides a mild, sweet heat while the chipotle peppers add a smoky depth. This version balances the heat and smokiness with a hint of lime and freshness of cilantro, making it suitable for salsa lovers who appreciate a bit of complexity in their dips.

Instructions

Prepare the ancho chillies

Remove the stems and seeds from the ancho chillies. Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes until softened.

Pro tip: Wearing gloves can prevent irritation from the peppers.

Blend the ingredients

In a blender, combine the soaked ancho chillies, chipotle peppers, tomato, onion, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and sugar. Blend until smooth.

Pro tip: For a chunkier salsa, pulse the ingredients instead of blending continuously.

Adjust seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or lime juice to balance the flavours.

Cook the salsa

Transfer the blended salsa to a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Pro tip: Cooking helps to meld the flavours and intensify the smokiness.

Cool the salsa

Allow the salsa to cool to room temperature before serving or storing.

Store the salsa

Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro tip: The salsa tastes better after resting overnight in the fridge.

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Tips & Tricks

Use gloves when handling hot peppers to avoid skin irritation.
For a milder salsa, remove the seeds from the chipotle peppers.
Allow the salsa to sit overnight in the fridge for the flavours to develop fully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is ancho chipotle salsa?

Ancho chipotle salsa is moderately spicy, combining the mild heat of ancho chillies with the smoky, stronger heat of chipotle peppers.

How long does ancho chipotle salsa last?

Ancho chipotle salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

What can I serve with ancho chipotle salsa?

Serve it with tacos, nachos, burritos, or as a dip with tortilla chips. It's also great on grilled meats.

Can I freeze ancho chipotle salsa?

Yes, you can freeze ancho chipotle salsa for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before use.

How can I make ancho chipotle salsa less spicy?

To make it less spicy, remove the seeds from the chipotle peppers or use fewer chipotle peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this ancho chipotle salsa with your favourite Mexican dishes, such as tacos, nachos, or enchiladas. Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita to enhance the flavours. This salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Its flavours deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.