Corn Salsa

basicallysalsacornchilejalapeñored oniontomatocilantrolimechips


Claire Saffitz
Makes about 2 cups


Ingredients

Method

Remove husks and silk from 2 ears of corn. Cook corn and 1 poblano chile in a dry medium cast-iron skillet over high heat, turning occasionally, until corn is charred in spots and chile is blistered all over, 10–14 minutes.

Transfer corn and chile to a cutting board and let cool for a minute or two. Lay corn flat and slice along one side to shave off kernels. Repeat, rotating cob, until all kernels have been cut off. Discard cobs. Transfer corn to a medium bowl.

Crush corn with a potato masher or wooden spoon to help release starch and juices, which will help to thicken the salsa slightly. (Also a good way to get out a little aggression.)

Cut around poblano chile stem to remove, then slice into flesh lengthwise to open up chile like a book. Scrape out seeds and ribs, flip over, then use the dull edge of your knife to scrape off charred skin and discard.

Coarsely chop chile and add to bowl with corn.

Do a little bit more knife work: Cut stem end off of 1 jalapeño, then halve lengthwise. Pull out ribs and seeds, then finely chop flesh. Add to bowl with corn.

Finely chop ½ red onion and add to bowl as well. Season with ½ tsp. salt and give it all a good mix with a large spoon.

Core 1 tomato, then cut in half through its equator. Squeeze tomato halves over a bowl or trash to push out seeds and watery parts and discard. Chop tomato flesh and gently fold into salsa.

Pick ¼ cup cilantro leaves from stems. Very finely chop leftover stems and fold into salsa along with leaves.

Cut 1 lime in half and squeeze with your hands into a small bowl. Measure out 2 Tbsp. and add to corn mixture. Taste and season with more salt. Mix one more time to combine.

Arrange tortilla chips on a platter. Serve corn salsa alongside.

Do Ahead: Corn salsa, without cilantro, can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Stir in herbs right before serving.