Salsa 101
In Spanish, salsa means “sauce.” This popular condiment has a long history. Salsa is thought to have originated with the Aztecs in the 15th century. Salsa was first mentioned in writing in a description of foods sold in what today is known as Mexico City. This salsa was made of tomatoes, hot peppers, and pumpkin seeds. This condiment was served with turkey, fish, and venison.
Salsa was not manufactured in the United States until the early 1900s. La Victoria Foods started marketing salsa in 1917. More companies jumped on the bandwagon as the decades went by and salsa became better known. Until recently, most commercial salsas were very similar. Now you can find green salsa, fruit salsa and even salsas made of corn and black beans.
In 1991, salsa actually passed ketchup as America’s favorite condiment. Ketchup had reigned supreme for generations. With the rising interest in fresh healthy foods, salsa has been increasing in popularity all across the board.
Today, there are many commercial salsas to purchase on store shelves. Most people have found that it is very simple to make their own salsa with fresh tomatoes, peppers and other ingredients. Homemade salsa can be chunky or smooth. Making it at home lets you play with your ingredients. You can make it really hot or really fruity. You get to add the ingredients you like best.
You can eat salsa with chips as a snack or serve it as a condiment with your meal. Salsa has really come into its own and you can find it in many different colors. You can even make a salsa bar when you host a party. Serve several different salsas and let your guests eat their favorites. There are so many different types of salsa that you will not have any trouble filling it up.
Salsa is a quick and easy recipe to make. Gather your favorite ingredients and chop them roughly. Place the pieces in a food processor and let it fly. Your salsa will turn out chunky or smooth depending on how long you run the processor. Take the time to experiment and see what style works best with what combinations of ingredients.
When you want to serve Mexican appetizers before a meal or at a party, you can always include a salsa. This versatile condiment works great with chips, wedges of quesadillas, tortilla slices, and many other foods. If you are making a taco bar, add a couple types of salsa to help spice things up.
Salsa will become a family favorite. Try to make a variety, especially when friends come over. They can choose the one they like best. Some people like mild salsas with fruit added, while others like it hot and spicy. Some people prefer salsa verde, which is a green salsa made with tomatillos instead of tomatoes. You can even enjoy a delicious simple salsa made with flavorful heirloom tomatoes of many colors. Add in some garlic, onions, and peppers until it tastes the way you want.
Easy party appetizers are a great way to feed party guests. You don’t need to worry about a sit down meal or setting the table. Just place several platters of appetizers where they are easily accessible and let your guests graze. Be sure you have plenty on hand to refill the platters as they empty.
