Salvadoran Salsa Roja

So easy to make it takes just two steps. The chicken bouillon, though optional, adds a hint of umami and a richness that you won’t get otherwise.

INGREDIENTS

  • 5 medium ripe tomatoes, quartered
  • ½ medium white onion, coarsely chopped
  • 2 serrano chiles, coarsely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 5 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder or 2 Tbsp. plus 1/2 tsp. Diamond Crystal or 4 tsp. Morton kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS

  1. Purée tomatoes, onion, chiles, garlic, and bouillon powder, if using, in a blender until smooth.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium. Carefully pour tomato mixture into pan; it will spit and bubble, so stand back! Cook salsa, stirring occasionally, until thick and darker in color, 20–30 minutes. Let cool.

Do ahead: Salsa can be made 2 days ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and chill.