Homemade Salsa from the Garden

Amanda

How to Make & Can Homemade Salsa from the Garden

Making and canning your own salsa is one of the best ways to preserve the flavors of your garden. Whether you love mild, medium, or spicy salsa, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from growing the right ingredients to canning a delicious batch of homemade salsa. Plus, you can buy the seeds to grow all these ingredients right from us!

Why Make & Can Your Own Salsa?

✅ Fresh, Homegrown Flavor – Store-bought salsa can’t compare to the vibrant taste of garden-fresh ingredients.
✅ Control the Ingredients – No preservatives, additives, or unnecessary sugars.
✅ Save Money – Homegrown salsa is cost-effective and lets you enjoy your harvest all year.
✅ Customizable Heat & Flavor – Adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste.
✅ Perfect for Gifts – Canned salsa makes a great homemade gift for family and friends.

Grow Your Own Salsa Garden

The key to the best homemade salsa starts with the freshest ingredients. We offer non-GMO, heirloom seeds for all the essentials:

Essential Salsa Ingredients to Grow:

  • Tomatoes – Roma, San Marzano, or Cherokee Purple (thick flesh and rich flavor).

  • Peppers – Jalapeño for mild heat, Serrano for medium, or Habanero for a fiery kick.

  • Onions – White onions for a crisp bite or red onions for sweetness.

  • Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor.

  • Cilantro – Adds fresh, herbaceous notes.

  • Lime – A squeeze of lime juice brightens the salsa.

  • Spices – Cumin, salt, and black pepper enhance the flavor.

📌 Order your garden seeds from us to start growing fresh ingredients at home!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making & Canning Salsa

Ingredients for Homemade Salsa (Yields ~6 Pints):

  • 10-12 medium Roma tomatoes (about 6 lbs)

  • 1 1/2 cups chopped onions

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (optional for mild salsa)

  • 3-6 jalapeños or serranos, chopped (adjust for spice level)

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

  • 1/2 cup lime juice (or vinegar for acidity)

  • 1 tbsp salt

  • 1 tsp cumin (optional)

  • 1 tsp black pepper

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

  2. Score the bottom of each tomato with an X and blanch for 30 seconds.

  3. Transfer to an ice bath, then peel the skins off.

  4. Chop or blend tomatoes depending on your preferred salsa texture.

Step 2: Cook the Salsa

  1. In a large pot, combine tomatoes, onions, peppers, garlic, lime juice, salt, and spices.

  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20-30 minutes until thickened.

  3. Stir in fresh cilantro at the end.

Step 3: Prepare Jars for Canning

  1. Wash 6 pint-sized canning jars and sterilize them by boiling for 10 minutes.

  2. Keep jars warm while preparing the salsa.

  3. Boil lids separately in a small pot for 5 minutes to soften seals.

Step 4: Fill & Seal Jars

  1. Ladle hot salsa into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.

  2. Remove air bubbles by running a spatula along the inside of the jars.

  3. Wipe rims clean and place lids on.

  4. Screw bands on fingertip tight (not overly tight to allow for proper sealing).

Step 5: Process in a Water Bath

  1. Place jars into a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they’re covered by at least 1 inch of water.

  2. Process for 15 minutes (adjust time for altitude if necessary).

  3. Remove jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.

How to Store & Use Your Canned Salsa

  • Check the Seal – Lids should not pop when pressed.

  • Label & Store – Write the date on the lid and store in a cool, dark place.

  • Shelf Life – Properly canned salsa lasts 12-18 months.

  • Use Ideas – Enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, eggs, or grilled meats!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Canned Salsa

✅ Use meaty tomatoes (like Roma) to avoid a watery salsa.
✅ Adjust the spice level by adding or removing seeds from the peppers.
✅ For a smoky flavor, roast tomatoes, peppers, and onions before blending.
✅ Always use the correct amount of acid (lime juice or vinegar) to ensure safe canning.
✅ Experiment with flavors – Try adding roasted corn, black beans, or mango for variety!

Get Started Today!

By growing your own salsa ingredients and canning them at home, you’ll enjoy a healthier, fresher, and more flavorful salsa year-round. Order your heirloom garden seeds from us today and start your journey toward homemade salsa perfection!

🌱 Browse our seed collection and start growing fresh salsa ingredients today!

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