TNT Carol's Picante Salsa Sauce*********

[barbogold]

TNT Carol's Picante {Salsa} Sauce-Appetizer

5 pounds fresh Plum tomatoes -- about 15 large****

1 can chili peppers -- mild, green

3 jalapeno peppers -- or to taste*

1 1/2 cups Spanish onions -- chopped

1 1/2 cups green bell pepper -- chopped

1 cup red bell pepper -- chopped

3 cloves garlic -- chopped

5 1/2 ounces tomato paste

1 cup white vinegar

3 Tablespoons Sugar

1 Tablespoon coarse salt -- pickling

2 teaspoons paprika

3 Tablespoons cilantro -- finely chopped

*I use dried red pepper flakes, & to your own ‘hotness’.
**Add after the first hour of cooking.
***Regular ripe tomatoes can be used but the thickness of the sauce is better with the plum tomatoes.

-Wash, blanch, peel, seed and coarsely chop the tomatoes, place them in a" large" stainless steel or enamel pot
-Add the undrained, mild green chilies to the tomatoes.
-Pierce the hot chilies with a toothpick & add to the pot{or use red pepper flakes}
-Add the remaining ingredients, EXCEPT THE CILANTRO; mix well.
-Place over medium heat, bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Simmer uncovered for 1 hour.
-Now add the cilantro & continue cooking for an additional 15 to 30 minutes or until the thickness you like.
-Stir quite often to prevent scorching.
-Taste for desired 'hotness' then remove the whole chilies.
-Prepare & sterilize 5 pint jars & snap lids.{this procedure MUST be followed for safety reasons}
-Spoon the salsa into the hot jars, place the snap lid on top, then lightly turn on the screw band just until finger-tip tight.
-Place the filled jars into a water-bath canner filled with HOT water making sure water covers the tops of the jars.
-Cover canner & bring to a boil over high heat.
-Once the water is boiling set the timer for 20 minutes.
-Carefully remove jars from canner & place on a dry kitchen towel to cool, let sit for 24 hours.
-After 24 hours check the seal; label & store in a cool dry place.

*****My sister makes this & adds about 8 jalapenos......very HOT!!!

It is a long detailed procedure but well worth the time & effort. I have never tasted a 'store bought' brand as good as this one!