Whether you're enjoying street tacos in Mexico City or hosting a backyard barbecue, salsa remains one of the most important and versatile condiments in Mexican cuisine. From its pre-Columbian origins, where indigenous peoples mainly used chili peppers , tomatoes, and sometimes tomatillos, salsa has evolved into a multitude of variations. Today, it can transform almost any dish with its vibrant flavours and varied textures.
The methods of preparing salsa are strongly influenced by the region and the desired use. For example, pico de gallo is a blend of raw ingredients like tomato, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper, providing a fresh and crunchy texture. Conversely, roasting or grilling the ingredients (as in salsa roja asada or salsa tatemada) brings a characteristic smoky depth, especially in central and northern Mexico. The choice between raw or cooked salsa often depends on the dish being served.
The strength of salsa lies in its adaptability. Traditional bases usually include tomato or tomatillo (for a tangy salsa verde ), but there are also fruit-based versions (mango, pineapple) in coastal areas, ideal to accompany grilled fish and meats. The level of spiciness will depend on the choice of chili: from the sweet jalapeño to the fearsome habanero, each variety brings its personality to the mix.
Today, salsa has gone beyond the strictly Mexican framework to integrate into modern and fusion cuisines. It can be found in contemporary restaurants, on pizzas, in gourmet burgers, and even on vegetarian menus. Whether it's as a dip for tortilla chips, a topping for tacos, or a side for grilled vegetables, the versatility of salsa is almost limitless.
The basic ingredients are simple: fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice and garlic. But don't be shy about exploring authentic variations like the mighty salsa negra from northern Mexico, made with roasted dried chiles and garlic.
As you experiment with different combinations, you'll discover that salsa is not just a simple sauce, but reflects both time-honored traditions and contemporary creativity.
