Remember those tamarillo seeds I planted from the store-bought fruit? Well, guess what? They thrived in my garden, bloomed beautifully, and now they’ve given me a bountiful harvest! 

This exotic fruit, also known as the “tree tomato,” thrives in California gardens and offers a unique blend of flavors that dances between tangy and sweet.

Growing tamarillo is surprisingly easy. Just plant the seeds from a ripe fruit and watch them sprout into lush, green plants. Soon, your garden will be adorned with clusters of vibrant orange fruits, each bursting with flavor. If you’re curious about the secrets to cultivating your own tamarillo bounty, I invite you to check out my blog post where I share my experiences and tips.

I’ve already made two delicious recipes with this exotic fruit, and today I’m sharing my simple recipe for a refreshing tamarillo salsa.

This simple tamarillo salsa captures the essence of this tropical treasure. With just a few ingredients and a quick chop, you’ll have a vibrant condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. So, let’s get cooking and together, we’ll celebrate the magic of the tamarillo, from our backyards to our bowls!

How To Make Tamarillo Salsa From Homegrown Tree Tomatoes

5 from 1 vote

This simple tamarillo salsa is a delicious way to experience the unique and vibrant flavors of this exotic fruit. I love making it spicy, but don't worry – you can easily leave out the hot sauce for a milder version. 

This recipe uses my homemade chili sauce for an extra kick, but feel free to substitute store-bought hot sauce or sriracha if you're short on time.

Whether you're dipping chips, adding it to tacos, or topping grilled dishes, this versatile salsa is sure to become a favorite. So, grab your tamarillos and let's get cooking!

Servings 2 people

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

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• 7 ripe tamarillos
• 1 green onion thinly sliced
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon homemade hot sauce optional

Instructions

 

• Cut open each tamarillo and scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
  
•  Use the back of a spoon or a knife to break the chunks into smaller pieces. You can adjust the size to your preference.
  
• Add salt and hot sauce (if using) to the tamarillo and stir to combine.
• Stir in the chopped cilantro and green onion.
  
• Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  

Video

Notes

Tips & Tricks:

• For a spicier salsa, add more hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• If you don’t have homemade hot sauce, you can substitute store-bought hot sauce or sriracha.
• Tamarillos are a great source of vitamins A and C.
• Tree tomatoes prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• They need well-drained soil and regular watering.
• Harvest tamarillos when they are firm but slightly soft when squeezed.
• Bonus Tip:
  To make your own hot sauce, wash and remove most of the seeds from red chilies. Blend them in a food processor until smooth. Add salt to taste and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
  For a more balanced hot sauce consider adding natural sweeteners like raw honey or raw apple cider vinegar to your chili mixture before bottling. Not only does this create a delightful balance between sweet and savory, but it also offers additional benefits:
  Raw Honey:
  • Natural sweetness without refined sugar
  • Known for its antimicrobial properties, promoting longer shelf life
  • Adds a subtle floral aroma
  Raw Apple Cider Vinegar:
  • Provides a tangy counterpoint to the heat
  • Rich in probiotics, supporting gut health
  • Acts as a natural preservative, extending the sauce’s lifespan
  Start by adding small amounts of honey and vinegar, tasting and adjusting as you go until you find your perfect balance. Remember, a little goes a long way! With this simple tweak, your homemade hot sauce will transform into a flavor powerhouse that keeps on giving for months, stored safely in the refrigerator.

Your feedback and comments are invaluable, helping my page thrive. Stay tuned for more exciting recipes and gardening adventures. Happy cooking and gardening!

Author: Marzi

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: Salsa, Spicy, Tamarillo salsa, Tree tomato

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