FCG: Salsa Verde Primera 02/05/08

Winter Greetings to you Gangsters! Of course, here in the northeast, that's not precisely proven by the weather: we're having an unseasonably warm winter up here. Well, so far. Now that I've written that, it'll be freezing rain and snow from here on out. Today's recipe comes from my dad, who likes to cook (and eat) Mexican Food--and who does his own puttering in the kitchen to find flavor combinations he likes. Next time you think about making (eating) salsa, here's something to try that isn't the standard tomato-onion-garlic-jalapeno-cilantro for you. As always, enjoy! - Devon

VERDE SALSA PRIMERA

2 cups Tomatillos pureed in blender
1 cup Onion chopped fine
¼ cup Green chiles (or more to taste)*
1 tbs Lime juice
½ tsp Garlic salt
¼ tsp Dried Oregano (or ½ tsp fresh oregano)
¼ tsp Ground cumin

Chopped fresh cilantro to taste
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A large can of tomatillos (28 oz.) will blend into 2 cups of tomatillo purée.
Be sure to remove any remaining husk or skins from the tomatillos before putting in the blender. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Chill for about an hour.

You can make this salsa in advance for later use, but it is recommended that you do not add the cilantro until just before serving for the best fresh flavor possible.

The use of fresh brown or white (traditional use) onions and fresh cilantro is highly recommended. Fresh squeezed lime juice is recommended also.

*If using Ortega green chiles you can double up to a half cup or one small can. You can also substitute some Serrano or Jalapeno peppers if you want it hotter. The New Mexico Hatch chile or 550 chile has more heat so be slow to add to taste.

You can also add some drained diced or crushed tomatoes to add some extra color to the bowl and to give it some more volume.

Serve with corn chips or tortilla chips. It can also be served over meats, burritos, or any other dish looking for a bit of spiciness. Great over eggs.

Note: Older cilantro or cilantro that has been in the salsa for a couple of days will give a coriander taste, not the fresh cilantro taste.