PINEAPPLE SALSA

Here’s a sweet and spicy twist on salsa. Served with chips, it’s an excellent party starter. It also adds a refreshing touch to grilled fish or meat.

—ANGELA LONGTIN CAVALIER, ND



PREP: 50 MIN. • PROCESS: 15 MIN. • MAKES: 7 PINT JARS


12 medium tomatoes (about 4 pounds)

2 large red onions, chopped

2 medium green peppers, chopped

2 cans (8 ounces each) unsweetened crushed pineapple, drained

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

1 can (12 ounces) tomato paste

3 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies

2 cans (4 ounces each) diced jalapeno peppers, drained

1/3 cup white vinegar

2 tablespoons salt

6 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon pepper

1. In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups water to a boil. Add tomatoes, a few at a time; boil for 30 seconds. Drain and immediately place tomatoes in ice water. Drain and pat dry; peel and chop.

2. In a stockpot, combine remaining ingredients. Stir in tomatoes. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 15-20 minutes or to desired thickness.

3. Carefully ladle hot mixture into seven hot 1-pint jars, leaving 1/2-in. headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary, by adding hot mixture. Wipe rims. Center lids on jars; screw on bands until fingertip tight.

4. Place jars into canner with simmering water, ensuring that they are completely covered with water. Bring to a boil; process for 15 minutes. Remove jars and cool.