Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa

Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa Recipe - Authentic Taste of Trinidad and Tobago

Region / culture: Trinidad and Tobago | Servings: 6

Introduction

Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa is a spicy and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with scotch bonnet peppers, papaya, mango, and a blend of spices, this salsa is a popular accompaniment to many Trinidadian dishes.

History

Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa has its roots in Trinidad and Tobago, where it is a staple in many households. The combination of spicy peppers, sweet mango, and tangy vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

15 habanero or scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and minced
2 large white onions, minced
1 papaya, diced
1 mango, diced
2 tbsp dijon mustard
0.5 tsp turmeric
0.5 tsp curry powder
3 cups vinegar

How to prepare

Place all ingredients in a pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Remove the pan from the heat, allow it to cool, and transfer the mixture to a jar. Store the jar in the refrigerator.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different taste profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wear gloves when handling scotch bonnet peppers, as they are extremely spicy and can irritate the skin.

- Adjust the amount of peppers to suit your spice tolerance. You can add more or less depending on your preference.

- For a smoother salsa, you can blend the ingredients in a food processor before transferring to a jar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salsa with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for tacos and nachos.

- It can also be used as a marinade for chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the ingredients together helps to meld the flavors and create a well-balanced salsa.

Ingredient Substitutions

If scotch bonnet peppers are not available, you can use habanero peppers as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

This salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa in a decorative jar or bowl for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salsa with a refreshing mojito or a cold beer to balance out the heat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a saucepan before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

50 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

0g per serving

Proteins

1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salsa is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains mustard.

Summary

Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa is low in calories and fats, making it a healthy condiment option.

Summary

Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa is a flavorful and versatile condiment that adds a spicy kick to any dish. With its combination of sweet mango, spicy peppers, and tangy vinegar, this salsa is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day in Trinidad, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of ripe mangoes and spicy peppers. I had been invited to a neighbor's house for a backyard barbecue, and as soon as I arrived, I knew I was in for a treat.

As I made my way to the food table, my eyes landed on a vibrant bowl of mango pepper salsa. The colors were a beautiful mix of orange, red, and green, and the aroma was tantalizing. I asked my neighbor for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me.

The key to this salsa, she explained, was the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. She had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was eager to try my hand at making it myself.

I made my way to the market the next day, armed with a list of ingredients. I picked out the ripest mangoes, the freshest peppers, and the juiciest limes. Back in my kitchen, I set to work chopping, dicing, and mixing.

The scent of the salsa as it came together was intoxicating. The sweetness of the mangoes mixed with the heat of the peppers created a symphony of flavors. I tasted a spoonful and was immediately transported back to that sunny day in Trinidad.

I served the salsa at my next family gathering, and it was an instant hit. Everyone wanted to know the secret behind this delicious dish. I proudly shared the recipe, knowing that it would be passed down through my own family for years to come.

Over the years, I have continued to make this salsa for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time, it brings back memories of that first taste in Trinidad. It has become a staple in my repertoire of recipes, and I am grateful to have learned it from such a generous neighbor.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the many people who have shared their culinary knowledge with me over the years. Each recipe tells a story, and each dish brings back memories of the people and places that have shaped my love of cooking.

I am proud to carry on the tradition of making Trinidad Mango Pepper Salsa, and I know that it will continue to be a beloved dish in my family for generations to come. Cooking is more than just following a recipe - it is a way to connect with the past, celebrate the present, and create lasting memories for the future. And for that, I am truly grateful.