Mexican Chili, Roasted Salsa, and a Family Legacy

My Aunt LaVerne was a beautiful Mexican woman I adored. She made and canned the best salsa ever. Our family lovingly called it “Mexican Chili,” and the name stuck. That roasted salsa had a depth of flavor no store-bought jar could match.

She moved halfway across the country when I was young, and years later, she sadly passed away. Her salsa recipe? Lost. Her kids didn’t have it. No one did. But I couldn’t let it disappear. So, I embarked on a mission—recreating Aunt LaVerne’s legendary Mexican chili.

A Picnic, a Jar, and a Revelation

One summer, Aunt LaVerne arrived at our house, a jar of her famous Mexican chili in hand. We had a picnic in the backyard, spreading out a feast on the picnic table. She popped open the jar, and the scent of roasted salsa filled the air. One taste, and the entire family was in awe. Chips disappeared at an alarming rate. Even Uncle Richard, who claimed to dislike salsa, went back for thirds. Aunt LaVerne just laughed, pleased that her salsa was once again stealing the show.

A Teenage Throwback to Canning Days

As a teenager, I watched my mom pull a weathered recipe card from her old, dusty box. It had been years since we’d had Aunt LaVerne’s salsa, but Mom was determined to bring it back. The kitchen turned into a chaotic mess of tomatoes, peppers, and the unmistakable scent of roasting goodness. That day, I learned how much effort went into canning—and how rewarding it was. The sound of lids sealing one by one made us feel victorious.

Nailed It! (Almost)

Years later, I experimented with tomatoes, peppers, and spices, tweaking batch after batch. Then, my husband took a bite and exclaimed, “Oh my gosh! This is the best salsa I’ve ever had!” That’s when I knew. I had captured the essence of Aunt LaVerne’s roasted salsa.

Now, I share this recipe with you. Make it, can it, and taste the love in every bite. Then, do me a favor—gather your family, open a jar, and watch it disappear. Because the best recipes aren’t just about flavor; they’re about the memories they create. Go make some!

Recommended Tools for Your Health Journey

If you’re serious about nourishing your body and soul, consider investing in a quality grain mill and bread machine. Freshly milled grain makes a huge difference in homemade bread! Check out my top picks on Amazon:

• Best Mixer: Kitchen Aid Mixer
• Best Grain Mills: Mockmill grain mill , Kitchen Aid Grain Mill Attachment , WONDERMILL Manual Hand Grain Mill
• Best Bread Machine: Zojirushi bread machine
• Best Dehydrators: Commercial Large 10 Trays Food Dehydrator, COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky, Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine , Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator, Excalibur EXC10EL Electric Food Dehydrator
• Best Blender: Vitamix 5200 Blender

Also, don’t forget to browse my other articles and recipes for more inspiration on healthy living and spiritual growth!

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Grains in Bulk: Healthier, Cheaper, and Sustainable(Opens in a new browser tab)

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