| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 154 | 5g | 1g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 5g | 3g | 0.7g |
Here’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, the Big Jim Pepper and Tomato Salsa. To put this straightforwardly, this salsa blends two of the worlds within which I live – the earthy warmth of Southern cooking that I’ve inherited from my Atlanta roots, and the bold spice profiles prevalent in the West African dishes I grew up enjoying, thanks to my Nigerian parents. This Afro-Southern fusion is intrinsic to my culinary expression.
The Brightness of the Vegetables and the Boldness of the Flavors
The vibrancy of the Big Jim Peppers, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro mirrors the brightness of the tastes that explode with each bite. The peppers bring a hint of warmth, tempered by the juicy fresh tomatoes. There’s something inherently comforting about this recipe — like a culinary hug. It’s akin to other salsa recipes, like Pico de Gallo, but it’s that Big Jim Pepper that sets our salsa apart.
The Fusion of Cultures in a Recipe
What’s more, the Big Jim Pepper and Tomato Salsa shares similar ingredients with Nigerian Pepper Soup, thereby echoing flavors reminiscent of my heritage’s beloved dish, adding yet another layer to my gastronomic narrative. It’s splendid on its own, but immensely versatile – making it a perfect side for grilled fish or a vibrant addition to tacos or a southwest-style salad.
As a lawyer, I’m accustomed to long hours and the need for stamina. This salsa just isn’t a flavorful treat, it’s filled with nutrient-dense ingredients that provide a host of health benefits. Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, Big Jim Peppers are rich in Vitamin A, C, and K, and onions carry anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a delicious way to keep your body fuelled and feeling great!
You see, every time I prepare and enjoy this salsa, it’s not just about the luxurious taste experience. The Big Jim Pepper and Tomato Salsa for me, symbolizes a beautiful melding of my dual cultural identities. It’s a reminder that good food can be so much more than mere nourishment. It can be a story – one that’ll keep unveiling new chapters as long as we continue to create, explore, and savor.
What You’ll Need
- 8 Big Jim Peppers
- 4 large tomatoes
- 2 medium onions
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Method
Step One
Begin by washing the Big Jim Peppers, tomatoes and cilantro thoroughly. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.
Step Two
Chop the Big Jim peppers, tomatoes and onions into small pieces and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
Step Three
Preheat a large saucepan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped peppers, tomatoes, onions and minced garlic to the pan.
Step Four
Sauté the vegetables in the pan for about 10-15 mins or until they are soft and start to caramelize.
Step Five
Add the chopped cilantro to the saucepan and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step Six
Season the mixture with lime juice, salt and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step Seven
Remove the pan from heat and let the salsa cool. Once cooled, you can serve the Big Jim Pepper and Tomato Salsa with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for your favorite Mexican dish.
