Salsa borracha, meaning “drunken salsa” in Spanish, is a vibrant and flavorful Mexican salsa that’s sure to be a hit at your next fiesta! Unlike traditional salsas, this one packs a punch with the addition of beer, which adds a subtle bitterness and enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes. Trust me, this easy-to-make salsa borracha recipe will have your taste buds singing and your guests begging for more!
Why You’ll Love This Salsa Borracha Recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe comes together in minutes with just a handful of fresh ingredients.
- Bursting with flavor: The perfect balance of smoky, spicy, tangy, and sweet, thanks to the unique combination of charred vegetables, spicy chiles, and beer.
- Perfect for any occasion: Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, a topping for tacos and burritos, or a sauce for grilled meats and fish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salsa:
- 2 pounds Roma tomatoes
- 1 large white onion, quartered
- 2-4 serrano peppers (or jalapeños), adjust to your spice preference
- 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 cup Mexican lager beer (like Corona or Modelo), or substitute with chicken broth
Equipment:
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Food processor or blender
Let’s Make Salsa Borracha!
- Char the Veggies: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the tomatoes, onion quarters, serrano peppers, and garlic cloves directly on the hot surface. Cook, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are charred and blistered on all sides (about 10-15 minutes for the tomatoes and onion, 5-7 minutes for the peppers and garlic).
- Cool and Peel: Transfer the charred vegetables to a plate or bowl and allow them to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel the skins from the garlic cloves.
- Blend the Salsa: Add the charred tomatoes, onion, peppers, garlic, cilantro, salt, and beer to a food processor or blender. Pulse until a chunky salsa forms, being careful not to over-process (you want to keep some texture).
- Taste and Adjust: Give the salsa a taste and adjust the salt, cilantro, or beer to your liking. Remember, it’s easier to add than to take away!
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salsa borracha to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with your favorite tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Salsa Borracha
- Don’t skip the charring: Charring the vegetables adds a depth of smoky flavor that truly elevates this salsa.
- Adjust the heat: Control the spice level by adjusting the number of serrano peppers. If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before blending.
- Get creative with your beer: While Mexican lager is traditional, feel free to experiment with other beer styles like amber ales or even stouts for unique flavor variations.
FAQs About Salsa Borracha
Can I make salsa borracha ahead of time?
Absolutely! Salsa borracha tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are some other ways to serve salsa borracha?
Get creative! This versatile salsa is delicious with:
- Tacos, burritos, and quesadillas
- Grilled chicken, steak, or fish
- Eggs for a flavorful breakfast treat
- As a topping for nachos or baked potatoes
Can I use canned tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes are always preferred, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well before blending.
A Salsa Worth Sharing
Making homemade salsa borracha is a fun and rewarding experience. It’s a simple recipe that yields delicious results, perfect for impressing your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the fiesta of flavors that this salsa brings to the table!
