Salsas

The Perfect Smoky Salsa (Morita + Árbol Tomatillo Salsa)

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servings
1-1½ cups
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Prep
5
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cook
10
Last updated on
February 19, 2026

This smoky tomatillo salsa is a staple in our family. The kind of salsa that disappears at every gathering and has people asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first chip. You can make it two ways: boiled for a clean, bright heat, or roasted for a deeper, smokier flavor. Roast the tomatillos on a comal or under the broiler until blackened, and gently toast the chiles on low heat for just a few seconds per side. (If you burn them, the salsa turns bitter.)

This is a bold, addictive salsa you’ll want to put on absolutely everything. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!

Notes & Tips
  • Heat level: Árbol brings the fire; morita brings the smoke. Adjust each independently.
  • Texture: Blend fully for a smooth salsa, or pulse for a chunkier finish.
  • Serving ideas: Perfect with tacos, quesadillas, grilled meats, eggs, or as a base for a smoky michelada.
  • Storage: Keeps 4–5 days in the fridge. The smoky flavor intensifies over time.

Salsas
The Perfect Smoky Salsa (Morita + Árbol Tomatillo Salsa)
A black human icon signifying servings.
serves
1-1½ cups
A black hand icon signifying prep time.
prep in
5
minutes
A black clock icon signifying cook time.
cook for
10
minutes
Ingredients
  • 5-8 medium-sized tomatillos
  • 1-5 Morita chiles
  • 2-8 Arbol chiles
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled
  • salt, to taste
Directions
  1. Place the tomatillos, chiles, and garlic in a saucepan on medium-low heat.
  2. Allow to simmer for about 8-10 minutes. The tomatillos should change color, and the chiles will rehydrate.
  3. Add the ingredients to the blender and add salt to taste. Blend. Test for salt and add if needed.
  4. Serve!

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