Ingredients:

  • 4 large Roma Tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 large Yellow Onion, rough chopped
  • 4 large Garlic Cloves (unpeeled)
  • 2 medium Jalapeño Peppers, stems removed
  • 2 (28 oz) cans Fire-Roasted Canned Tomatoes, drained slightly
  • 1/2 cup Water or Chicken Stock
  • 1 cup, packed Fresh Coriander (Cilantro)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Granulated Sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Broiler: Position the oven rack 6-8 inches (15–20 cm) from the heating element and preheat the broiler to high.
  2. Prep and Arrange: Place the Roma tomato halves, onion chunks, jalapeños, and garlic cloves (unpeeled) onto a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with neutral oil (optional).
  3. Char the Vegetables: Place the tray under the broiler. Cook for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skins of the tomatoes are blackened and blistered, and the onion edges are deeply browned. Remove the pan from the oven.
  4. Cool and Peel: Once slightly cooled, peel the charred skins from the garlic cloves (they should slip right out).
  5. Load the Blender: Transfer all the roasted vegetables, the peeled garlic, and any accumulated juices from the baking sheet into the blender jar.
  6. Add Foundation Ingredients: Add the two cans of fire-roasted tomatoes, the 1/2 cup of water (or stock), the fresh lime juice, cumin, salt, and sugar.
  7. Incorporate Freshness: Add the packed fresh coriander (cilantro) to the blender.
  8. Blend to Smoothness: Pulse the mixture a few times, then process on medium-high speed until the salsa is completely smooth and emulsified—about 45–60 seconds.
  9. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salsa. Adjust the seasoning aggressively; it often needs more salt to bring the flavors forward. Add additional lime juice or a pinch more sugar/salt, as needed.
  10. Transfer and Chill: Pour the salsa into a clean container or bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes (ideally 2 hours) to allow the flavors to merge harmoniously. Serve chilled or at room temperature.