Forget that mild, runny salsa the big name makers call “medium” - if you like it spicy, Original Juan’s “snappy medium” Batch #218 is the medium salsa you've been waiting for. I found it to be a perfectly named and truly balanced blend of Jalapeno bite and chipotle smokiness, and a versatile addition to many foods in addition to being a solid option for dipping. I have to admit that I usually prefer “restaurant-style” pureed salsas but the awesome, well blended chunkiness and cohesive texture of this one had me pouring out seconds and thirds.
Original Juan specializes in small-batch, kettle cooked sauces and salsas, and you can really taste their attention to detail in the subtlety of the flavors here. There's definitely a pleasing kick of heat from the Jalapeno, but the smoky low end brought in by the chipotle and liquid smoke temper that just a bit, adding up to a really robust salsa that would be as satisfying on tacos or enchiladas as it is straight out of the jar on a tortilla chip.
My favorite thing about this salsa is the truly accurate “medium” label: I would say this probably falls closer to what most big-name, mass-market salsas would call “hot,” but the flavor is so balanced that if you’re one of us that like everything hot, it might be the first true “medium” salsa you’ve tasted! Original Juan's motto ("Pain is Good") tells you all you really need to know about their approach to salsa. Highly recommended!
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