Simple Ingredients for Making Real Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo is a fresh salsa that's full of color, flavor, and crunch. It's a must-have in Mexican cooking. The real deal uses just a few key ingredients, and each one helps create its special taste.
Main Ingredients:
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Tomatoes:
- About 2 cups, chopped (this means around 4 medium tomatoes).
- Why they matter: Fresh tomatoes add sweetness and a little tang.
- Best choice: Roma tomatoes are a popular pick because they taste just right.
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Onion:
- Use 1 medium onion, cut into tiny pieces.
- Why they matter: Onions add a sharp and deep flavor.
- Best choices: White or yellow onions are usually used.
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Cilantro:
- About ½ cup, chopped.
- Why it matters: It gives the salsa a fresh and herby taste.
- Note: You can use less if you don’t really like cilantro.
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Jalapeño:
- Use 1-2 jalapeños, with the seeds removed and finely chopped (to your liking).
- Why it matters: They add some heat and spice.
- Alternatives: If you want it milder, use poblano or bell peppers instead.
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Lime Juice:
- Juice from 1-2 limes (about 2-3 tablespoons).
- Why it matters: Lime juice adds a zesty flavor.
- Note: It’s best to use fresh lime juice instead of bottled juice for better taste.
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Salt:
- About ½ teaspoon, or more if you like.
- Why it matters: It brings out the flavors of everything else.
How to Make It:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and salt.
- Add Lime Juice: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ingredients.
- Combine and Taste: Gently mix everything together and add more salt or lime juice if needed.
Fun Variations:
- Extra Additions: You can add ingredients like avocado for a creamy texture or mango for a little sweetness.
- Adjust the Heat: Change up the kind of chili or how much you use to match your spice preference.
Pico de Gallo is super easy to make and goes well with many dishes, making it an important part of Mexican food traditions. Enjoy!