This Chili de Árbol Salsa is bold, smoky, and seriously spicy. It’s made with dried chile de árbol peppers, garlic, and a splash of vinegar—super simple, but the flavor hits hard. If you love hot sauces or taco shop salsas, this one’s gonna be your new best friend.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first had this salsa at a taco truck—it was deep red, super spicy, and just so good on everything. I’ve been making it at home ever since, and it only takes a few ingredients. The best part? You can make it once and keep it in the fridge all week.
Why I keep it on hand:
- 🔥 It’s the perfect heat without being too much
- 🧄 It’s garlicky, smoky, and full of depth
- 🌮 Tastes amazing on tacos, eggs, bowls, everything
- ⏱️ Takes just 15 minutes to make
- 🧊 Lasts for days in the fridge
⏰ Time to Make: 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings: About 1 cup of salsa
Ingredients
- 15–20 dried chiles de árbol, stems removed
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup water
- Optional: 1 tbsp oil (for sautéing garlic/chiles)
How to Make Chili de Árbol Salsa
1. Toast the Chiles
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chiles de árbol for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant (don’t let them burn!).
2. Sauté the Garlic (Optional)
Add oil to the pan and lightly sauté the garlic cloves until golden.
3. Add Water to Soften
Pour in ½ cup water to the pan and simmer for 3–5 minutes until the chiles soften.
4. Blend It All
Add the softened chiles, garlic, vinegar, salt, and cooking water to a blender. Blend until smooth.
5. Taste and Adjust
Taste the salsa and adjust salt or vinegar if needed.
What to Serve With It
This salsa goes with so many things! Try it with:
- 🌮 Tacos (any kind!)
- 🍳 Scrambled or fried eggs
- 🥑 Avocado toast or burrito bowls
- 🍗 Grilled meats or roasted veggies
- 🍟 Even fries or sweet potatoes
FAQ
How spicy is this salsa?
Pretty spicy! But you can use fewer chiles or remove the seeds to make it milder.
Can I make it thicker or thinner?
Yes! Use less water for thicker salsa, more for a thinner drizzle-style sauce.
How long does it last?
Up to a week in the fridge in a sealed container.
Can I freeze it?
Yep! Freeze in small portions and thaw as needed.
Can I mix in other peppers?
Totally—try adding a roasted tomato, chipotle, or guajillo for variety.
Enjoy!
This Chili de Árbol Salsa brings real heat and deep flavor with just a few ingredients. It’s bold, spicy, and the perfect homemade kick to keep in your fridge all week long. 🌶️🔥🌮