Salsa Ninety Nine (Mild)

Recipe View Prepare the Tomatoes (30 minutes): Core and peel the tomatoes. Remove the seeds and pulp. Process the seeds and pulp through a food mill to extract the liquid. Coarsely chop the remaining tomato flesh.

Recipe View Reduce the Tomato Base (1 hour): In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over low heat, combine the milled tomato liquid and tomato paste. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour, or until the liquid has reduced by about one-third, concentrating the tomato flavor.

Recipe View Puree the Aromatics (10 minutes): In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, jalapenos, and garlic with 1/2 cup of the simmering tomato liquid. Process until smooth. Gradually stir this puree into the large pot.

Recipe View Combine and Simmer the Salsa (30 minutes): Bring the mixture in the pot to a gentle boil. Add the green bell peppers, onions, chopped tomatoes, salt, vinegar, and brown sugar. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until all the vegetables are tender and the salsa has thickened slightly, about 30 minutes.

Recipe View Cool and Store: Allow the salsa to cool completely. Transfer to sterilized jars or airtight containers and refrigerate or process for canning according to safe canning practices.