New Mexico Magazine Salsa Contest - June 2010
Some Like it Hot
Six months ago, we decided to ignite a debate about the Land of Enchantment’s best salsa with the first-ever New Mexico Magazine Salsa Contest. Because we wanted every reader to be able to enjoy the winning sauce, all contestants’ products had to be available in stores or online. And because this is New Mexico Magazine, after all, the salsas had to be made here in our state. A total of 28 stepped up to the plate, including local heavyweights Sadie's and El Pinto brand salsas, brandishing everything from roasted corn and black beans to flamin’ pineapple to wild’n’fiery chipotle. Our judges were Gil Garduño of Gil’s Thrilling (and Filling) Blog (pictured at left), the queen of travels off the beaten path, "King of the Road" author Lesley S. King (middle), and Santa Fe School of Cooking culinary director (and frequent magazine contributor) Rocky Durham (pictured at right). In a blind taste test, they considered overall flavor, spiciness, and viscosity.
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| Our judges loves this salsa's real New Mexican red-chile flavor. It has enough spice that locals can enjoy it, but not so much that it's only for chile fiends |
And the winner is...
Xerarch’s Nice ’N Hot Salsa
Headed by Art Weingaertner and his wife, Jennifer, Xerarch’s Foods has been bringing the heat from their Alamogordo headquarters since 2003. The Greek word xerarch (pronounced ZER-ark) means “originating in a dry habitat.” Art, who developed this family recipe through trial and error, says his son is the chief taster. Xerarch’s Salsa, available in three heat levels—Mellow, Nice ’N Hot, and Severe—and other products, are available at www.xerarchs.com
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You’re getting warmer…
Notable Salsas
Palapa Award
Santa Fé Seasons’ Tomatillo Salsa
Our judges thought this salsa invoked the fresh flavors of the Mexican Riviera. They imagined it being served at an oceanside café, accompanied by mariachi music and plenty of cerveza.
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Eat Your Veggies Award
Santa Fé Seasons’ Grilled Garden Salsa
Our judges enjoyed this salsa’s chunky vegetables, jalapeño heat, and hint of cinnamon.
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Fiesta in a Jar Award
Santa Fé Seasons’ Roasted Corn & Black Bean Salsa
Our judges gave this a high score for its blend of sweetness (the roasted corn) and notes of smoky chipotle.
All Santa Fé Seasons salsas are available at www.santafeseasons.com
The New Mexico Magazine Salsa Contest judging was photographed on location at a traditional hacienda-style home in Santa Fe owned by Jim and Scout Gay. The Gays open their home for private corporate dinners and weddings. For info: scoutgay2711@gmail.com
Special thanks to Lisa Smith, Fine Homes Specialist with Prudential Santa Fe Real Estate, for arranging the location:
lisasmithsantafe@gmail.com, (505) 570-5770
