Homemade salsa
I think the biggest ruse in New Zealand dining is the price of food at Mexican restaurants. The main components of Mexican cuisine (beans, rice, flour) are very, very cheap. Although flavoured margaritas in jugs are a lot of fun, you can create a Mexican fiesta at home quite easily if you are on a budget. Add some cumin to your rice or stir through some hot sauce; add garlic, chilli and cumin to your beans, minced beef, or shredded roast pork; and make dinky bowls of condiments to go with your tortillas, Old El Paso style. I have a friend who alternates between not ‘believing’ in Mexican food to telling me that I know nothing about what Mexican food is like. I haven’t been to Mexico and neither has he, but when I get there I will report back with the real deal. While you’re waiting, however, here is my simple recipe for salsa. It is light and fresh and doesn’t come in a jar with a yellow top…
Ingredients:
2 large tomatoes, diced
½ red onion, diced
Heaped ¼ tsp of very finely diced garlic
¼ tsp of white wine vinegar
1 tsp of finely chopped parsley or coriander
1 small green chilli de-seeded and finely sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all of the ingredients and leave to steep a little while—this enhances the flavour. Goes best with carbs, dairy, spicy protein, crunchy lettuce, and a cool beer.
