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Salsa Lizano Recipe

Salsa Lizano Recipe

This homemade Salsa Lizano recipe recreates Costa Rica’s most beloved condiment — a tangy, mildly sweet, and savory sauce that enhances everything from rice and beans to grilled meats. Made with a blend of vegetables, vinegar, spices, and a touch of sweetness, this sauce captures the true Pura Vida spirit. It’s simple to make, stores well, and brings the authentic taste of Costa Rica to your kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 16
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Costa Rican
Calories: 25
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 medium carrot chopped
  • 1 stalk celery chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • ½ cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder or 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for vegan version
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste optional but authentic

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Blender or food processor
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
  • Glass jar or bottle with airtight lid

Method
 

  1. Sauté the vegetables: In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
  2. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the water and vinegar, then add the brown sugar, salt, cumin, mustard, black pepper, turmeric, Worcestershire sauce, and tamarind paste if using. Stir to combine.
  3. Simmer the mixture: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
  4. Blend until smooth: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Transfer to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth. If desired, strain the sauce through a fine mesh strainer for a silky texture.
  5. Taste and adjust: Taste your sauce ; you can add more vinegar for tanginess, sugar for sweetness, or salt to enhance flavor.
  6. Store and serve: Pour the finished Salsa Lizano into a clean glass bottle or jar. Once cooled, seal tightly and refrigerate. The sauce will keep for up to one month and tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors deepen.

Notes

  • Tamarind paste adds the authentic tartness of traditional Salsa Lizano. If unavailable, you can substitute with a teaspoon of lime juice or a few drops of Worcestershire sauce.
  • Roasted variation: Roast the vegetables before simmering for a smokier, deeper flavor.
  • Vegan option: Use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce to keep the recipe completely plant-based.
  • Storage tip: Always shake the bottle before use, as natural settling may occur.
  • Serving ideas: Perfect with gallo pinto, eggs, tacos, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats — or drizzle it over rice bowls for an instant flavor boost.
  • Salsa Lizano Recipe