Salsa Survey

Whether you believe those sales reports that claim salsa outsells ketchup in the U.S. or not, it’s safe to say that the tortilla chip-friendly condiment certainly has grown in popularity for many of us. Meaning “sauce” in Spanish, salsa traditionally combines tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and spice from chili peppers. “I look for a smoky flavor, a bit of chunkiness, and not too much salt,” says Chef JoseCruz Ramirez of Don Emilio at Lobo’s Café (57-59 King St, Chappaqua 914-238-2368), who tasted eight store-bought medium-heat salsas. Which did he like the best? Read on.

Wise Bravos Salsa (16 oz, $2.99) “Heavy, bitter smell. Texture okay. Too spicy for a medium salsa. There is a strong cumin flavor.”

Trader Jose’s Salsa Autentica (12 oz, $1.69) “Good smell, okay flavor, but too watery.”

Whole Foods’s 365 Thick & Chunky Salsa (16 oz, $2.69) “Needs a little more salt but otherwise a perfect salsa.”

Amy’s Salsa (17.5 oz, $7.19) “Good smell and texture but plain-tasting. Onions and peppers are overcooked and mushy.”

Laurel Hill All Natural Salsa (16 oz, $3.99) “Too sweet and needs more vegetables. The only taste is tomato.”

Carrillo’s Gourmet Fire-Roasted Salsa (16 oz, $5.99) “Perfect smokiness but not enough tomato flavor and it’s too hot for a medium salsa. Also it has the wrong look—like barbecue sauce or ketchup.”

Newman’s Own All Natural Chunky Salsa (16 oz, $3.19) “Taste is okay but needs more salt. The vegetables are cut too big.”

Tostitos All Natural Chunky Salsa (15.5 oz, $3.99) “Color perfect and just chunky enough. Good spice and salt level. Fresh-tasting.”