Salsa Picante is a fantastic condiment that supports a healthy microbiome and GI tract. 

The combination of diced tomatoes, white onion, cilantro, garlic, serrano chili pepper, lime juice, Baja Gold sea salt, chili powder, and cumin in this salsa picante offers potential benefits for the gastrointestinal tract and microbiome. Tomatoes provide fiber and antioxidants, such as lycopene, which support gut health by reducing inflammation. Onions and garlic contain prebiotic compounds (e.g., inulin) that feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a diverse microbiome. Cilantro may aid digestion with its antimicrobial properties, while serrano chili peppers and spices like chili powder and cumin contain capsaicin and bioactive compounds that can stimulate digestion and reduce gut pathogens. Lime juice adds vitamin C and supports enzyme activity, and sea salt, in moderation, helps maintain electrolyte balance. Together, these ingredients may enhance gut motility, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy microbial environment, although the benefits depend on individual tolerance to spicy foods.

Origins of Salsa

Pre-Columbian Roots: The history of salsa begins with the Aztecs, Maya, and other indigenous peoples of Mexico, who were making spicy sauces as early as 3000 BCE. These early salsas combined ingredients like tomatoes, tomatillos, chilies, and herbs, often ground together using a molcajete (stone mortar and pestle).

Key Ingredients: Chilies (native to Mesoamerica) were central, providing heat and flavor. Tomatoes and tomatillos, also native, were staples. Other ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs (e.g., cilantro) were used based on regional availability.

Cultural Significance: These sauces were not just food but part of rituals and daily life, often served with maize-based dishes like tortillas or tamales. The Aztecs called such mixtures chilmōlli (from Nahuatl: chili = chili pepper, mōlli = sauce).

Recipe:

• 1 Can Diced Tomatoes
• 70 grams of white or purple onion
• 20 grams of cilantro (leaves and stems)
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 whole serrano chili pepper, with seeds.
• 5 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp Baja Gold Sea Salt
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cumin powder