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Salsa Macha

A crispy, fiery Chilean oil-based condiment made with toasted dried chilies, garlic, and seeds that adds bold heat and irresistible texture to any dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: Chilean
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Salsa Macha
  • 3/4 cup neutral oil vegetable, canola, or light olive oil
  • 4 dried red chilies guajillo, ancho, or a mix, deseeded and torn into pieces
  • 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds pepitas
  • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat

Equipment

  • Small skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Mason jar or glass container
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Small cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Tear open each dried chili, remove seeds and membranes, and tear the flesh into 1–2-inch pieces.
  2. Warm the neutral oil in a small skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute; the oil should be warm but not smoking.
  3. Add the torn chilies and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until they darken slightly and become fragrant; do not let them burn.
  4. Stir in the sliced garlic, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds; cook, stirring continuously, for 2–3 minutes until the garlic turns golden and the seeds begin to pop.
  5. Sprinkle in dried oregano, sea salt, and optional red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds to toast the oregano.
  6. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture sit for 2 minutes for flavors to meld.
  7. Pour the entire contents, including oil, into a clean mason jar or glass container.
  8. Allow salsa macha to cool to room temperature before sealing the jar; store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

For a smokier version, replace one guajillo chili with a chipotle. Always use clean utensils when scooping to prolong shelf life.