Salsa Ninety Nine

Salsa Ninety Nine Recipe from Tunisia with Tomatoes and Spices

Region / culture: Tunisia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Salsa Ninety Nine is a delicious and versatile salsa recipe that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you are hosting a party or simply looking to add some extra flavor to your meals, this salsa is sure to impress.

History

Salsa Ninety Nine has a rich history that dates back to the early 1990s. It was created by a group of friends who were looking to put a unique twist on traditional salsa recipes. They experimented with different ingredients and flavor combinations until they finally landed on the perfect recipe. Since then, Salsa Ninety Nine has become a favorite among food enthusiasts and is often served at parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) tomatoes
0.13 (12 oz (340 g)) can tomato paste
0.13 bunch cilantro
2 jalapeno chile peppers
0.25 medium head garlic
0.75 large green bell peppers, chopped
0.75 large onions, chopped
1 tbsp and 0.25 tsp salt
2 tbsp distilled white vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp and 1-0.5 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water

How to prepare

Core and peel the tomatoes. Remove the tomato seeds and pulp. Pass the seeds and pulp through a food mill. Chop the outer parts of the tomatoes.
In a large pot over low heat, simmer the milled liquid and tomato paste for 1 hour, or until the liquid is reduced by 0.33.
In a blender or food processor, blend cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, and 0.5 cup of the tomato liquid from the large pot. Slowly incorporate this mixture into the pot.
Bring the contents of the pot to a boil while adding the green peppers, onions, chopped tomatoes, salt, vinegar, and brown sugar. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water. Add the cornstarch mixture to the pot. Stir continuously and boil the mixture until all the vegetables are soft, about 30 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool, then transfer it to sterile containers.

Variations

For a spicier salsa, add more jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce. You can also customize the recipe by adding different types of peppers or herbs.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Salsa Ninety Nine, be sure to use fresh and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. It is also important to remove the seeds and pulp from the tomatoes before cooking to prevent the salsa from becoming too watery. Additionally, be sure to simmer the tomato liquid and paste over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Salsa Ninety Nine with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for salads.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Salsa Ninety Nine is to simmer the ingredients slowly to allow the flavors to develop. Be sure to stir the mixture continuously to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. You can also substitute red onions for white onions for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Salsa Ninety Nine can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Salsa Ninety Nine in a colorful bowl with a garnish of fresh cilantro or a slice of lime for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salsa pairs well with margaritas, Mexican beer, or a refreshing glass of lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 50 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 0.5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salsa is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A, thanks to the fresh tomatoes and peppers used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Salsa Ninety Nine is a low-calorie and nutrient-rich salsa that is perfect for snacking or adding flavor to your favorite dishes.

Summary

Salsa Ninety Nine is a flavorful and versatile salsa recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this salsa is sure to impress your guests and elevate your meals. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a cooking class at the local community center. The instructor, an elderly Mexican woman named Rosa, had brought in a jar of her famous salsa to share with the class. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached Rosa after the class and asked her if she would be willing to teach me her recipe. She smiled and agreed, telling me that the salsa was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She invited me to her home the following week to learn how to make it.

When I arrived at Rosa's house, she greeted me with a warm hug and led me to her kitchen. The smell of onions, garlic, and tomatoes filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Rosa handed me an apron and began to show me the ingredients and tools we would need to make her salsa.

We started by roasting the tomatoes, onions, and garlic over an open flame until they were charred and fragrant. Rosa explained that this step was crucial in bringing out the deep, smoky flavors of the salsa. As we worked, she shared stories of her childhood in Mexico and the many family gatherings where this salsa had been enjoyed.

Next, we chopped up the roasted vegetables and combined them with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a secret blend of spices. Rosa showed me how to balance the flavors, adding a pinch of salt here and a dash of cumin there until the salsa was just right. We let it sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together, then Rosa handed me a tortilla chip to taste.

The salsa was a burst of flavor in my mouth – tangy, spicy, and oh so satisfying. I couldn't believe that I had made something so delicious with my own two hands. Rosa beamed with pride and told me that I was now part of the exclusive club of those who knew the secret recipe for Salsa Ninety Nine.

Over the years, I have made Rosa's salsa countless times for family gatherings, parties, and potlucks. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and tell them that it's a family secret, passed down from my dear friend Rosa.

As I sit here now, stirring a fresh batch of salsa on the stove, I can't help but think of the wonderful memories I have shared with Rosa and the joy that her recipe has brought to so many. I am grateful for the day I first discovered Salsa Ninety Nine and for the friendship that blossomed from that chance encounter.

So here's to Rosa, the mastermind behind this delicious salsa, and to the countless meals shared and memories made around the table. May her recipe continue to be passed down through the generations, bringing joy and flavor to all who taste it. And may we always remember the sense of anticipation and wonder that comes with trying something new and delicious for the first time. Cheers to Salsa Ninety Nine, a true culinary masterpiece.