Salsa de Venezuela
This chile pepper originated in the mountains of South America and Mexico. Because of their appearance they are often called “Manzano” which means apple chile. This pepper can only be grown in these regions at elevations above 5000′ therefore making these very rare in the US.These chiles are unique in that they are the only ones that have black seeds. They are very hot and meaty. Rocotos are chopped and used in salsas or sometimes stuffed with cheese and meat and then baked.
Ingredients:
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1 mango, peeled, pitted and diced
1/2 medium papaya, peeled, seeded and diced
1/2 medium avocoado, peeled, pitted and diced
juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 rocoto chile, stemmed, seeded and chopped fine
1-1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. sea salt, or to taste
2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a large ceramic bowl and refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to blend. Serve with tortilla chips or alongside your favorite grilled meats or seafood.