Salsa

Salsa is a flavorful sauce that serves as a cornerstone of Mexican and Mexican-American cuisine. It is commonly used as a condiment for dishes such as tacos or as a dip for tortilla chips. In English, "salsa" generally refers to various Mexican table sauces, including pico de gallo and salsa verde. These sauces can be either raw or cooked and are typically served at room temperature.

Traditionally, Mexican salsas were prepared using a molcajete, which is a mortar and pestle-like tool. However, many people today prefer the convenience of a blender. Common varieties of Mexican salsas include salsa roja—a cooked red sauce made with tomatoes, chili peppers, onion, garlic, and cilantro—and salsa cruda, a raw mixture of tomatoes, onions, jalapeño peppers, and cilantro.

Although some purists might disdain jarred salsas, their availability has greatly contributed to salsa's immense popularity, even beyond the southwestern United States. Remarkably, salsa has even surpassed tomato ketchup in sales.

It is crucial to handle and store salsas properly, especially raw varieties, to avoid harmful bacteria. Studies have identified instances of contamination, such as E. coli, in restaurant-prepared salsas. Proper refrigeration is essential to prevent bacterial growth, and ingredients such as fresh lime juice and garlic can help inhibit pathogens like Salmonella.