How To Make Tamarillo Salsa From Homegrown Tree Tomatoes
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!
Ingredients
- 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.
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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
- Provides a tangy counterpoint to the heat
- Rich in probiotics, supporting gut health
- Acts as a natural preservative, extending the sauce's lifespan