There are several types of salsa, each using different spices.
Salsa is a primarily tomato-based hot sauce native to Mexican and Central American cuisine. Salsa can be used as a sauce, in recipes or as a dip. Salsas are usually at least mildly spicy but, depending on the herbs and spices used, can be extremely spicy. Common salsas are salsa roja, or red sauce, pico de gallo, salsa verde, or green chili sauce, mango salsa and salsa negra, or black sauce.
Salsa Roja
Salsa roja is the red salsa people are most familiar with. It is usually made with cooked tomatoes, chili peppers, onion, garlic, and . The spices used include cilantro, garlic powder, oregano, dried red pepper flakes and cumin . Finish with salt and pepper to taste. "To taste" means to use as much as you personally desire.
Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo is also called salsa fresca and is an uncooked salsa. You make pico de gallo with tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Cilantro is an herb but comes from the coriander plant, which is a spice as well. Many recipes for pico de gallo also use garlic powder and always add a dash of salt and pepper to taste.
Salsa verde is a green salsa served at some Mexican restaurants. The green comes from pureed tomatillos, which can be cooked or raw, and are mixed with jalapenos, white onion, lime juice and cilantro. Cumin, red pepper flakes, cloves, salt and pepper are spices that are usually used in salsa verde. Some salsa verde recipes are extremely spicy. Use chili powder or dried red-pepper flakes to add heat to your salsa verde.
Mango Salsa
Mango salsa is the most popular salsa in which fruit is the main ingredient. Mangoes hold their shape and flavor well against the onions, peppers, cilantro and lime that are mixed within the salsa. Besides cilantro, ginger, salt and pepper are excellent spices that enhance the flavor profile of a mango salsa. If you want a spicier version, mix in red pepper flakes. For a sweeter option, sprinkle in a little cinnamon and sugar. This sweeter version pairs well with sweet tortilla chips.
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