This was a salsa adventure for me, because I have never made salsa of any kind. This recipe was very easy, and gives me all kinds of ideas for other salsas with lots of other ingredients. I know I said I wasn't going to substitute ingredients, but I lied. The Mr. can't handle raw jalapeño but likes the heat of it, so I added a small can of chopped green chiles. He loves peppers of any kind, but in their raw form, it's a no go. So to give it the little kick that he likes, I sprinkled some cayenne pepper on it, too. The whole idea of salsa is that kick at the end, so I was able to make it happen with those two additions.
Shoepeg corn was something I had heard of, but never bought, so after a little research, I found out that: The name 'shoepeg' comes from a shoemaking term used during the 19th century. The kernels resemble the wooden pegs used to attach soles to the upper part of shoes. I think anything with the word Peg in it is okay, but that's just me. :-) The only variety today is called Country Gentleman, and shoepeg corn has a long and delicious history in southern cooking. It is slightly sweet, and is a nice balance with the heat from the chilies and cayenne pepper that I added. If you like it hot, I would suggest the jalapeños in the recipe. I am not a huge fan of too much heat, but this has a long, slow burn that is just perfect. I don't recall ever eating black-eyed peas, either, also a southern ingredient, but the protein from the beans is good for us. If the beans you buy have sodium, you can reduce it by about 40% by rinsing them well under running water.
That small dish in the first photo was quickly replaced by the larger bowl in the second photo. I forgot to give myself some mixing room. It makes a generous amount, and the Supremes are going to have some tomorrow. There's still plenty for us as well. I think this would really be good over a baked potato with some melted cheese, and I also think it would make a great spicy soup with some tomato sauce, juice and paste and probably some more seasonings.
The directions said to let the flavors incorporate overnight, but never having much patience, I tried it. And I like it! I bet I get 3 thumbs up from the ballistic missile boys tomorrow.
Thank you, Mrs. Sundberg. :-)
