Salsa adds a sweet, tangy, or sour flavor that is perfect for any kind of dip. Salsa can be made using different ingredients such as mangoes, corn, or relish. The nutritional content of salsa depends on the producer. Most salsas available in the store contain preservatives and the best before a date can be found on the container. As Salsa has a significant amount of water, it can go bad very fast if left in hot or humid environments. Homemade and preservative free salsas have a short shelf life and once the container has been opened the salsa stays fresh for three to seven days.
Purchasing Salsa
Salsa comes in a huge range of flavors made by numerous producers. To make the best of your buy, purchase a quantity that will be consumed before the salsa starts to go bad. The color of salsa depends on the combination of ingredients, and usually, the darker color salsas have a deeper flavor and more spice. Make sure to read the nutrition facts on the side of the container. It is a common practice to add sugar to processed foods to enhance the flavor, and the sugar content in salsa is generally low but can seriously put your diet in jeopardy.
Storing Salsa
Salsa has a shelf life of up to twelve months if the container is not opened. It will still need to be stored away from direct sunlight and in a cool environment. An unopened container can be put in the cabinet without the fear of going bad. Once opened, it is best to place the remaining salsa in the fridge. After opening, salsa will be good for about three to seven days, even in the fridge. Transfer the salsa into an airtight container after opening to prevent it from absorbing odors.
How to handle Salsa
Salsa contains small chunks of tasty vegetables and in some cases fruit. Transferring Salsa from one container to another does leave behind residue. A simple wash with dishwashing liquid will get rid of all the salsa left behind. Accidentally spilling some on your clothes won’t stain them, even if the stain does not come out in the first wash, special detergents can be bought to remove the blemishes. Certain flavors of salsa can have a heavy quantity of garlic that releases a strong aroma that can get absorbed into hands. Wash your hands with some toothpaste to get rid of the smell.
Cooking with Salsa
Salsa has a unique flavor profile making it a great option as a topping, garnish, or dip. Cooking salsa on direct heat can change the taste. Some salsas are made to be eaten the way they are while certain recipes require cooking the ingredients on low to medium heat. Directly placing salsa into a pan will start burning the vegetables and give the salsa a burnt taste. The quantity of salsa that should be used is a matter of preference – some like it hotter than others- and depends on what type of salsa you buy. Cooking salsa on a low heat setting, removes the crunch and can make the salsa mushy while also completely changing the taste.