The Best Chipotle Red Chili Salsa Recipe

Chipotle Red Chili Salsa is a great addition to many different meals. It combines the earthy tones of cumin and tangy flavors of tomatillos with the heat of Arbol Chilies, making it versatile and complex. 

This Red Chipotle Chili Salsa recipe is perfect for enhancing the flavors of tacos, burritos, grilled meats, and vegetables. It's a great choice for those who enjoy adding a bit of heat to their meals. This salsa is made with ground cumin, which pairs well with the brightness of tomatoes and the sharpness of onions. This results in a spicy and flavorful salsa that's a must-have for anyone who loves bold flavors with a spicy kick.

Whether you're using it as a dip, a topping, or a marinade, this salsa is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With the ability to customize the heat level, it's a versatile condiment that goes well with many different meals. I recently served it with this Blackstone steak and it was incredible!

Ingredients for this Chipotle Red Chili Salsa Recipe

Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.

• Tomatillos: provide a tangy and slightly acidic base for the salsa. 
• Dried New Mexico Chiles: bring the heat and a deep, rich, smokey flavor. You can also use chile de arbol.
• Garlic: adds a pungent flavor to your salsa dip. 
• White Onion: add a mild sweetness and a bit of sharpness to the salsa, balancing out the other flavors.
• Cumin: gives a warm, earthy taste that pairs well with the smokiness of the chiles and the tanginess of the tomatillos.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: adds a citrus acidity that enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and adds freshness to the salsa.
• Salt: brings out the flavors of the ingredients. 
• Olive Oil: helps to meld the flavors together.

How to make this Chipotle Red Chili Salsa Recipe

Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions.

1. Turn on the oven's broiler on high. 
2. Place the tomatillos on an aluminum foil baking sheet and broil about 4-6 inches from the broiler. We want them slightly charred, so this can take anywhere between 9-13 minutes. Check them often and move them around using kitchen tongs to ensure a nice charr all around. 
3. in a large pan or skillet over medium heat, add the oil and saute the garlic with the chiles for a few minutes. We want the chiles to become fragrant and the garlic to turn golden. 
4. Transfer the tomatillos, chiles, garlic, oil, ground cumin, and salt to a blender and blend until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Add a squeeze of lime juice if you'd like, and pulse one more time. 
5. Pour the salsa into a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Serve with your favorite dishes or tortilla chips.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

What does Chipotle Red Chili Salsa taste like? 

Chipotle Salsa is famous for its mix of spiciness and warm flavors. The dried chilies provide the main heat of the salsa, which can be adjusted depending on the type of chili used. Tomatillos bring a mild and tangy flavor, while arbol chilies add a sharper, more intense spice. The ground cumin creates a flavor that's distinctly earthy, which pairs perfectly with the acidic tomatoes and the depth of the garlic and onions.

How can I customize Chipotle's tomatillo-red chili salsa?

1. Heat Level: You can adjust the spiciness of the salsa by changing the type and amount of dried chilies used. For a milder flavor, use fewer arbol chilies. If you want it spicier, add more peppers or some fresh jalapeños. 
2. Texture: For a chunkier salsa, chop the ingredients more coarsely and use a food processor sparingly. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the salsa until it reaches the desired texture.
3. Additional Ingredients: Add roasted tomatoes for a different flavor. You can also include a bit of honey or sugar to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness.

What can I pair with this red salsa recipe?

• Tacos: Spoon it over grilled steak or chicken tacos for extra flavor.
• Burritos and Bowls: Add it to your favorite burrito bowl for a hint of a smoky flavor.
• Grilled Meats: Use it as a topping or marinade for grilled chicken, pork, or beef.
• Eggs: Drizzle it over scrambled eggs or an omelet to spice up your breakfast.
• Dips: Serve it with tortilla chips for a delicious appetizer.

How can I make the red chili salsa less spicy?

If the salsa is too spicy, you can make it milder in a few ways. You can add more tomatoes or a bit of sugar to balance the spiciness. Another option is to mix in some sour cream, yogurt, or avocado to make it less hot and give it a creamy texture. Also, serving the salsa with dairy products like cheese or milder foods can help reduce the spiciness.

Can I use fresh chilies instead of dried ones?

Sure! When using fresh chilies instead of dried ones in your hot salsa, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the salsa will change. Dried chilies have a more concentrated flavor and a different heat level than fresh ones. If using fresh chilies, you may need to adjust the quantity and taste as you go to find the best balance. Roasting the fresh chilies beforehand can help bring out a deeper flavor.

How can I make the homemade salsa smokier?

To give your salsa a smoky taste, you can add chipotle peppers or a small amount of liquid smoke. Another way to add a smoky flavor is by roasting the tomatoes, onions, and garlic before blending them into the salsa. You can also use smoked paprika to make the smoky flavor a bit stronger.

How can I make Chipotle's salsa less acidic?

If your salsa tastes too acidic, it could be due to the tomatoes or lemon juice. You can balance the acidity by adding a small amount of sugar or honey. Another option is to reduce the amount of lemon juice or use a milder vinegar instead.

How do I store my homemade chipotle salsa recipe?

Store your Chipotle Red Chili Salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to one week, allowing the flavors to meld together. The salsa can also be frozen, but it may lose some of its fresh texture when thawing. For best results, freeze in small portions so you can thaw just what you need.

The Best Chipotle Red Chili Salsa Recipe