Venezuelan Salsa

Venezuelan Salsa Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Venezuela

Region / culture: Venezuela | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Venezuelan Salsa is a refreshing and flavorful salsa that combines the sweetness of mango and papaya with the creaminess of avocado. This salsa is perfect for serving with grilled meats, fish, or as a topping for tacos or salads.

History

Venezuelan Salsa is a traditional dish in Venezuela, where it is often served as a side dish or condiment. The combination of tropical fruits and spicy jalapeño pepper is a popular flavor profile in Venezuelan cuisine.

Ingredients

1 mango, peeled, stone removed, and diced
0.5 medium papaya, peeled, stone removed, and diced
0.5 avocado, peeled, stone removed, and diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 stick celery, finely chopped
the juice of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp freshly chopped coriander (cilantro)
1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
1.5 tsp ground cumin
salt

How to prepare

Place all the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Toss to mix well, then cover with clingfilm and refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to blend.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Substitute cilantro with parsley or mint for a different herbaceous note.
Mix in some diced cucumber or jicama for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to dice the fruits and vegetables into small, uniform pieces for the best texture and flavor.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to suit your spice preference.

- For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño pepper before chopping.

- Refrigerate the salsa for at least a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Venezuelan Salsa as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, as a dip for tortilla chips, or as a side dish for tacos or salads. It also pairs well with rice and beans for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Venezuelan Salsa is to dice all the ingredients into small, uniform pieces. This ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Be sure to mix the salsa well to evenly distribute the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find mango or papaya, you can substitute with pineapple or peach for a similar tropical flavor profile. You can also use red onion instead of white onion for a slightly different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Venezuelan Salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Venezuelan Salsa in a colorful bowl or hollowed-out pineapple for a festive presentation. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or a slice of lime for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Venezuelan Salsa pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. It also complements dishes with bold flavors, such as spicy tacos or tangy ceviche.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Venezuelan Salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving, as the juices may separate. Do not freeze, as the texture of the fruits and vegetables may become mushy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Venezuelan Salsa contains approximately 80 calories, making it a light and nutritious addition to any meal.

Carbohydrates

The main sources of carbohydrates in Venezuelan Salsa are the mango, papaya, and avocado. These fruits provide natural sugars and dietary fiber, making this salsa a healthy and delicious choice for a snack or side dish.

Fats

The primary source of fats in Venezuelan Salsa is the avocado. Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Proteins

Venezuelan Salsa is a low-protein dish, with minimal protein content coming from the vegetables and fruits used in the recipe. To increase the protein content, consider serving the salsa with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.

Vitamins and minerals

Venezuelan Salsa is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the mango and papaya, vitamin K from the avocado, and potassium from all the ingredients. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Venezuelan Salsa is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for individuals with common food allergies. However, if you have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients used in the recipe, be sure to check for cross-contamination.

Summary

Venezuelan Salsa is a healthy and flavorful dish that is low in calories and packed with essential nutrients. It is a great option for those looking to add more fruits and vegetables to their diet.

Summary

Venezuelan Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of mango and papaya with the creaminess of avocado. This salsa is perfect for adding a tropical twist to your meals and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Venezuela. Maria was known for her culinary skills, and I always looked forward to tasting her delicious dishes.

One day, Maria invited me into her kitchen to watch her prepare a special salsa that she had learned from her mother. As she chopped fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers, the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas filled the room. My mouth watered in anticipation of tasting the final product.

As Maria mixed in the secret ingredient – a dash of hot sauce made from her own homegrown peppers – she explained to me the significance of this salsa in Venezuelan cuisine. It was a staple at family gatherings, a symbol of love and togetherness.

I watched in awe as Maria skillfully combined the ingredients, adjusting the seasonings to perfection. She then scooped the salsa into a beautiful serving bowl and placed it on the table, inviting me to try it.

The first bite was a revelation. The flavors danced on my tongue, a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy. I couldn't help but ask Maria for the recipe, eager to recreate this culinary masterpiece in my own kitchen.

Maria smiled warmly and handed me a handwritten note with the ingredients and instructions. She encouraged me to make the salsa with love and care, just as she had done.

Back home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work. As I chopped the tomatoes, onions, and peppers, I thought of Maria and her graciousness in sharing her culinary secrets with me. I added the hot sauce, just as she had instructed, and gave the salsa a final stir.

When I tasted the finished product, I couldn't believe how closely it resembled Maria's version. The flavors were bold and vibrant, a true taste of Venezuela.

I proudly shared the salsa with my family, who couldn't get enough of it. They praised my cooking skills and begged for the recipe. I happily obliged, passing on the tradition of this delicious salsa to the next generation.

Over the years, I have continued to make Maria's Venezuelan salsa, each time reliving that special moment in her kitchen. It has become a beloved recipe in my family, a reminder of the bonds of friendship and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

As I write down the recipe for future generations, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life. From Maria's kitchen in Venezuela to my own home, this salsa has brought me closer to my roots and to the people I love.

And so, I continue to make Maria's Venezuelan salsa with the same love and passion that she did, honoring her memory and the traditions that bind us together. With each bite, I am transported back to that warm summer day, grateful for the gift of friendship and the joy of good food.