Description
Salsa Macha is a bold, nutty, and smoky Mexican chili oil made from dried chiles, garlic, nuts, and seeds. This versatile condiment adds deep umami flavor and gentle heat to any dish, from tacos to grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
4 dried arbol chiles, stems and seeds removed
1/2 cup neutral oil (like grapeseed or vegetable)
6 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
1/4 cup raw peanuts (unsalted)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for balance)
Instructions
- Roughly chop the dried chiles into smaller pieces using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife.
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the oil, garlic, and chiles. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic turns golden and the chiles become fragrant without burning.
- Add the peanuts and sesame seeds to the pan and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the peanuts are lightly toasted and sesame seeds begin to pop.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the vinegar, salt, and brown sugar (if using).
- Pulse until the mixture is broken down but still has texture. It should not be completely smooth.
- Taste and adjust salt or vinegar if needed for flavor balance.
- Transfer to a clean jar. Let rest for a few hours or overnight for the flavors to meld, though it can be used immediately.
Notes
Use guajillo chiles if you don't have ancho chiles.
Substitute Thai bird’s eye chiles for arbol chiles for extra heat.
Add a chipotle chile for a smoky twist.
Stir in toasted sesame seeds at the end for more crunch.
A splash of lime juice can add brightness.
Stores well for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or 1 month in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
