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Salsa Roja Taquera

Salsa Roja Taquera is a bold, spicy, and deeply flavorful salsa made with a mix of guajillo and árbol chiles, tomatillos, and aromatics. Boiled and then blended into a smooth, punchy sauce, it’s perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or eggs. A final simmer in oil enhances the flavors and gives the salsa a silky texture that clings perfectly to your favorite dishes.
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Salsa Roja
Servings: 6 Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 – 5 dried chiles guajillo depending on size
  • 6 – 10 dried chiles de árbol depending on desired heat level
  • 8 tomatillos
  • 1/4 white onion
  • 3 – 4 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 – 3/4 cup reserved cooking water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil

Instructions

  • Boil the dried chiles guajillo, chiles de árbol, tomatillos, onion, and garlic in a stock pot until fully cooked, about 12 minutes.
  • Transfer the cooked ingredients to a blender, along with 1/4 cup of the reserved cooking water, and blend until completely smooth.
  • Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Pour in the blended salsa and simmer gently, adding more cooking water to adjust the salsa to your preferred consistency.
  • Add salt to taste. Once it simmers and thickens slightly, remove from heat.
  • Serve warm or let cool and refrigerate for later use.

Notes

  • For less heat, reduce the number of chiles de árbol or remove their seeds.
  • Roast your tomatillos before boiling for added smokiness.
  • Strain the blended salsa through a mesh strainer for a smoother texture.
  • Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
  • Pairs well with carne asada tacos, chilaquiles, or grilled vegetables.