Introduction
Looking for a fun and festive snack? These charming star chips paired with a zesty homemade salsa are perfect for parties, movie nights, or just an afternoon treat. The combination of crispy tortilla stars and vibrant salsa will surely delight your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Star Chips:
– White corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil
– Salt
For the Salsa:
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Roma tomatoes (2-3 depending on size)
– Green chilies (mild, medium, or hot, to taste)
– Red onion (1 small)
– Sweet onion (1 small)
– Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
– Granulated sugar (1 teaspoon)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this delightful snack is about 15 minutes, making it easy to whip up before your event or craving strikes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the star chips is approximately 10 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend around 25 minutes preparing and cooking. This recipe yields enough chips and salsa for 4 to 6 servings, depending on how hungry you are!
To Make the Star Chips:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush both sides of each white corn tortilla with vegetable oil.
3. Using a 2-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars from the tortillas.
4. Place the star-shaped tortilla pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Lightly sprinkle the tortilla stars with salt.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
To Make the Salsa:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the canned diced tomatoes and chopped Roma tomatoes.
2. Add the desired amount of green chilies based on your heat preference.
3. Finely chop both the red and sweet onions and add them to the bowl.
4. Chop fresh cilantro and mix it into the salsa mixture.
5. Add a small amount of granulated sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
6. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the freshly baked star chips with the homemade salsa for a festive and delicious snack that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
To Make the Star Chips:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush both sides of each white corn tortilla with vegetable oil.
3. Using a 2-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars from the tortillas.
4. Place the star-shaped tortilla pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Lightly sprinkle the tortilla stars with salt.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
To Make the Salsa:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the canned diced tomatoes and chopped Roma tomatoes.
2. Add the desired amount of green chilies based on your heat preference.
3. Finely chop both the red and sweet onions and add them to the bowl.
4. Chop fresh cilantro and mix it into the salsa mixture.
5. Add a small amount of granulated sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
6. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving
Serve the freshly baked star chips with the homemade salsa for a festive and delicious snack.
Notes
– The star-shaped chips can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container.
– Feel free to adjust the type and amount of onions and chilies according to your preference.
– For extra flavor, consider adding lime juice or garlic to the salsa.
Cook techniques
Oven Baking
Oven baking is utilized to make the star chips crispy and golden. By preheating the oven to 350°F and baking the tortilla stars for about 10 minutes, you can achieve the perfect texture.
Brushing with Oil
Brushing both sides of the corn tortillas with vegetable oil helps to ensure even crisping and enhances the flavor of the chips.
Cookie Cutting
Using a 2-inch star-shaped cookie cutter allows you to create fun, festive shapes from the tortillas, making the chips visually appealing and perfect for serving.
Flavor Balancing
Adding a small amount of granulated sugar to the salsa helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Flavor Melting
Allowing the salsa to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious salsa.
FAQ
Can I use different types of tortillas for the star chips?
Yes, you can use other types of tortillas, but white corn tortillas provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe.
How can I adjust the heat level of the salsa?
You can adjust the heat level by using more or fewer green chilies, or opting for mild, medium, or hot varieties based on your preference.
What can I serve with the star chips and salsa?
The star chips and salsa can be served with guacamole, queso dip, or as a side for tacos and other Mexican dishes.
How long can I store leftover salsa?
Leftover salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make the chips ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the star chips ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. For the best crispiness, reheat them briefly in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
The star chips paired with the homemade salsa create a delightful and festive snack perfect for any gathering. The combination of crispy chips and fresh, flavorful salsa makes for a delicious treat that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this easy yet fun recipe as a great addition to your snack repertoire.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Consider serving your star chips with guacamole for a creamy contrast.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Try adding black beans and corn to the salsa for an added texture and flavor twist.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Pair the star chips with a warm cheese dip for a hearty and savory option.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Create a sweet version by using cinnamon and sugar on the star chips, serving with fresh fruit salsa.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Experiment with different herbs in your salsa, such as parsley or green onions, for varied flavor profiles.
