A fresh and flavorful salsa brings a smoky twist to the classic pico de gallo you love. Perfect for dipping or topping your favorite dishes, it’s an easy way to add a burst of vibrant taste to any meal.
Prep Time25 min
Cook Time1 hr
Total Time1 hr 25 min
Difficulty
Hard
Helpful Chef Tips
Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
Char the jalapeños over an open flame or in a hot pan to bring out the smoky taste.
Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Ingredients
0/10
What Makes This Dish So Tasty
This salsa bursts with fresh flavors and a smoky twist that adds depth to every bite. It’s bright, vibrant, and easy to make, perfect for adding a homemade touch to your meals. Plus, it’s a healthy way to enjoy fresh vegetables with minimal ingredients.
Step 1
Warm your smoker to about 200 degrees F. While it’s warming up, add water to the smoker’s bowl and wood chips to the side tray following the instructions for your particular smoker.
Step 2
Toss the onion, jalapeños, habaneros, and garlic into a small aluminum roasting pan—make sure it fits inside your smoker. Drizzle everything with olive oil and stir it around so all the veggies get coated.
Step 3
Once the smoker is ready, place the roasting pan inside. Let the vegetables smoke for about 1 to 2 hours, or until they’re tender but not dried out. You can add more wood chips as needed to keep the smoke going.
Step 4
While the veggies are smoking, put your tomatoes in a big glass bowl. Add chopped cilantro, lime juice and pulp, cumin, and some seasoned salt. Give everything a good mix, then cover it and pop it in the fridge.
Step 5
When the smoked vegetables are done, add them to the tomato mixture and stir it all together. Let it chill in the fridge for at least half an hour so the flavors have time to meld. Enjoy!
154
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
How To Serve It Best
This salsa pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or simply as a dip with tortilla chips. It also works well as a topping for scrambled eggs or avocado toast, adding a fresh kick to your breakfast or snack.
Refrigeration Tips
Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, but for the best flavor and texture, consume it within 24 hours. Stir before serving as the juices may separate over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salsa without a smoker?
Yes, you can roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F for about 20-30 minutes to get a similar smoky flavor.
How spicy is this salsa?
It has a medium to high heat level due to the habanero and jalapeño peppers, but you can adjust the amount of peppers to suit your taste.
Can I prepare this salsa in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together.
What type of wood chips should I use for smoking?
Mild fruit woods like apple or cherry work well and complement the flavors without overpowering the salsa.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of Roma tomatoes?
Yes, but Roma tomatoes are preferred because they are less watery and help keep the salsa thick.
How long will the salsa keep in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Is it necessary to peel the garlic before smoking?
Yes, peeling the garlic allows it to cook evenly and release its full flavor during smoking.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh limes?
Fresh lime juice is best for flavor and freshness, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
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