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Salsa de Chilli Morita

This authentic salsa de chilli morita is a versatile vegan condiment that brings a deep, smoky complexity to any Mexican-inspired feast. The morita chilli, a variety of dried and smoked jalapeño, provides a rich fruitiness and a moderate heat that develops beautifully when blended with charred tomatoes. It is a vibrant, savoury addition to your kitchen repertoire, offering a much more sophisticated flavour profile than standard shop-bought alternatives.

Preparing this salsa is remarkably simple, making it an excellent choice for a weekend taco night or as a healthy dip for homemade tortilla chips. By charring the onion and garlic in their skins, you lock in their natural sweetness while adding a hint of bitterness that balances the vinegary tang and sugar. This recipe can be made up to five days in advance, allowing the flavours to meld and intensify in the fridge.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Salsa de Chilli Morita

  • 6 morita chillies, seeds removed

  • 450g plum tomatoes

  • 1 small onion, unpeeled, halved through root

  • 3 garlic cloves, unpeeled

  • 45ml olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • Kosher salt

How to make Salsa de Chilli Morita

Soak chillies in a bowl of very hot water until softened, 20-25 minutes. Drain and transfer to a blender.

Meanwhile, cook tomatoes, onion, and garlic in a dry large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high, turning often, until softened and charred in spots, 5-8 minutes. Set onion and garlic aside; transfer tomatoes to blender.

Once cool enough to handle, peel onion and garlic and place in blender along with oil, vinegar, and sugar. Blend until smooth. Season with salt.

Do ahead: Salsa can be made 5 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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