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    Home » Recipes » Condiments

    Xnipec - Habanero Salsa

    Published: Mar 31, 2021 by Kate Hackworthy · This post may contain affiliate links ·

    Jump to Recipe

    Xnipec is a HOT Habanero Salsa recipe that's popular in Yucatán, Mexico. It's made with classic salsa ingredients of tomatoes, onion and cilantro along with super hot habanero peppers for a pico de gallo-style dip that’s made for those who can handle the heat!

    Wooden table with bowl of xnipec salsa.

    Every once in a while, I enjoy some really spicy food. Like, super spicy.

    This easy Habanero Salsa checks all the boxes delivering heat and flavor all in one bite.

    It’s great for dipping chips and vegetables or even as a great topping on any type of protein or spooning onto tacos.

    Non-spice lovers beware as this salsa isn’t made for those who can’t take the heat.

    Originating from Yucatán, the name Xnipec translates to dog’s nose in Mayan which implies you’ll sweat like a dog's nose when you eat it!

    And trust me, you will. It's hot, but has that wonderful tropical heat of habaneros so it's an addictive salsa.

    After that initial mouth burn you just want more and more!

    Jump to:
    • What is Xnipec?
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients & Tools 
    • Step By Step Tutorial
    • Tips 
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Variations
    • Special diets
    • Storage 
    • FAQs
    • More Spicy Recipes
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    What is Xnipec?

    Xnipec (also known as Xni Pec or Xni-pec) is a salsa popular in Yucatan, Mexico. It's made with tomatoes, onion, fresh habanero peppers, cilantro and orange juice soured with lime. It's very hot and is nicknamed Dog's Nose Salsa because eating it will make you sweat like a dog's nose!

    Xni Pec is pronounced: shnee-peck.

    The word xnipec translates to dog's nose or dog's snout.

    Bowl of salsa on a table.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    Xnipec (or Xni Pec) Habanero Salsa is made from simple ingredients that are budget friendly and can be found at any grocery store.

    Making it from scratch is a great way to keep the ingredients healthy and fresh.

    Xnipec is perfect for Cinco de Mayo parties.

    It makes the perfect gift when jarred up to your friends and family that love spicy foods.

    The longer it sits, the better the flavor which makes it a great salsa to make ahead of time.

    It’s not just for chips! It can be used on your favorite mexican dishes like tacos or burritos as a spicy topping.

    Whip up a batch of Xnipec the day before, then bring it to a tailgate, Super Bowl party, picnic or cookout.

    Ingredients on a table.

    Ingredients & Tools 

    • Habanero Chili Peppers - These spicy peppers are small and orange ore red and can be found in the produce section. Even though they are small, they definitely pack a punch! You can substitute Scotch Bonnet for habaneros.
    • Ripe Tomatoes - You’ll need some fresh ripe tomatoes to make this classic salsa.
    • Red Onion - This onion is used in salsa because it’s a bit more mild and adds a nice purple color contrast.
    • Chopped Cilantro - Adds a fresh herb flavor and taste and brightens the habanero salsa. 
    • Lime Juice & Orange Juice - These 2 citrus juices add acidity and help balance out the extra spicy flavor of the habanero peppers.
    • Salt - A pinch of salt before serving adds a great layer of flavor and garnish.

    Step By Step Tutorial

    Follow this step-by-step photo tutorial, then scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and method.

    Collage: 1 chopped onion and tomatoes, 2 chopped cilantro, 3 chopped habanero peppers.

    Dice the tomatoes and onions, then chop the cilantro (coriander).

    Halve the habaneros, remove the stem, pith/veins and seeds, and dice them finely.

    Collage: 1 bowl of lime and orange juice, 2 salsa ingredients in a bowl, 3 mixed with dressing.

    Stir the orange juice and lime juice together.

    Add the onion, tomatoes, cilantro and habaneros to a bowl and mix well.

    Stir in the dressing and mix well.

    Let the Xnipec stand for at least ½ hour for the flavors to combine. Season with a little salt just before serving.

    Tips 

    If you have sensitive skin or any cuts on your hands, it’s important that you use disposable gloves to cut the peppers as they can give off a painful burn. And

    To make it easier to extract the lime juice, microwave them for 15 seconds or roll them firmly on the counter to soften them before juicing.

    When making salsa, it’s important to let the ingredients sit together for at least 30 minutes as the moisture begins to release from the vegetables and blend together for flavor. 

    Don’t skip the citrus! The lime and orange juices help balance out all the flavors in the salsa making it well-rounded, and classic Yucatan Xnipec Salsa. 

    Serving Suggestions

    There are so many ways to use Xnipec! We tend to scoop it up with salty tortilla chips or some carrot sticks, but it's also great with these:

    Use it to top these Mini Lentil Tacos.

    Toast up a batch of Naan Bread and use it for dipping.  

    Drizzle it on to Mexican Street Corn for a spicy kick. 

    Serve it alongside these Mexican Tortilla Bowls.

    Use it as part of a Mexican feast, and don't forget the Xocolatl - Aztec Hot Chocolate. 

    Serving dish of habanero salsa with lime wedges around it.

    Variations

    Instead of orange juice, try grapefruit juice to change it up and add a tart flavor.

    Try it with sour orange juice and omit the lime juice.

    You can also use scotch bonnet peppers instead of habanero, or a mix of both!

    To make a hearty salsa, add in some corn or black beans for a great texture and flavor.

    Balance out the heat by adding freshly diced pineapple to make it a Xnipec Pineapple Habanero Salsa.

    Make it a Mango Habanero Salsa by adding chopped fresh mangoes.

    Special diets

    To Make Gluten Free: The ingredients in this recipe are gluten free as written. 

    To Make It Vegan: This salsa contains 100% vegan ingredients. 

    Storage 

    Storing: Homemade Xnipec can be stored in an airtight container or sealed bag in the fridge for 4-5 days.

    Freezing: The nature of the vegetables do not hold up well in the freezer, therefore freezing is not recommended.

    Table with serving dish of salsa, next to habanero peppers and limes.

    FAQs

    Are habanero peppers hotter than jalapeno peppers?

    Yes! In fact, they’ve been measured to be 100 times hotter than jalapeno peppers.

    Can you eat habanero peppers raw?

    Yes, you can. This recipe is made with raw habanero pepper though they can also be stewed, fried and pickled for more of a mild flavor.

    What helps cool your mouth from spicy food?

    To cool down, grab a drink that contains dairy, some carbs like rice or drink something acidic like lemonade.

    More Spicy Recipes

    Asian Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce
    Easy Mexican Bean Soup
    Sriracha Aioli
    Easy Tofu Curry

    Table with serving dish of salsa, next to habanero peppers.
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    📖 Recipe

    Bowl of salsa with a spoon in it.

    Xnipec Habanero Salsa

    Kate Hackworthy | Veggie Desserts
    Xnipec is a hot Habanero Salsa recipe that's popular in Yucatán, Mexico. Made with spicy habanero peppers in an easy pico de gallo-style dip.
    5 from 11 votes
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    Prep Time 10 mins
    Total Time 10 mins
    Course Appetizer, Condiments, Dips and Spreads
    Cuisine Mexican
    Servings 10
    Calories 12 kcal

    Equipment

    • Knife
    • Cutting board
    • Bowl

    Ingredients
     

    • 3 habanero peppers
    • 2 large ripe tomatoes diced
    • 1 red onion finely diced
    • 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro coriander
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 2 tablespoons orange juice
    • Pinch of salt to serve

    Instructions
     

    • Halve the habaneros, remove the stem, pith/veins and seeds, and dice them finely (be careful and use disposable gloves if your hands are sensitive), then add to a mixing bowl.
    • Add the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice and orange juice to the bowl and mix well.
    • Tip: to make it easier to extract the lime juice, microwave them for 15 seconds or roll them firmly on the counter to soften them.
    • Let the Xnipec stand for at least ½ hour or overnight for the flavors to combine. Season with a little salt just before serving.

    Video

    Notes

    If you have sensitive skin or any cuts on your hands, it’s important that you use disposable gloves to cut the peppers as they can give off a painful burn.
    To make it easier to extract the lime juice, microwave them for 15 seconds or roll them firmly on the counter to soften them before juicing.
    When making salsa, it’s important to let the ingredients sit together for at least 30 minutes as the moisture begins to release from the vegetables and blend together for flavor. 
    Don’t skip the citrus! The lime and orange juices help balance out all the flavors in the salsa making it well-rounded, and classic Yucatan Xnipec Salsa. 
    Serving Suggestions
    Use it to top these Mini Lentil Tacos.
    Drizzle it on to Mexican Street Corn for a spicy kick. 
    Serve it alongside these Mexican Tortilla Bowls.
    Use it as part of a Mexican feast, and don't forget the Xocolatl - Aztec Hot Chocolate. 
    Variations
    Instead of orange juice, try grapefruit juice to change it up and add a tart flavor.
    Try it with sour orange juice and omit the lime juice.
    You can also use scotch bonnet peppers instead of habanero, or a mix of both!
    Balance out the heat by adding freshly diced pineapple to make it a Xnipec Pineapple Habanero Salsa.
    Make it a Mango Habanero Salsa by adding chopped fresh mangoes.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 12kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 2mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 1mg

    The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.

    Tried this recipe?Mention @kateveggiedesserts or tag #veggiedesserts! I love seeing your recreations.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jessica

      July 11, 2021 at 5:03 pm

      5 stars
      I like my salsa with a little kick, so I can't wait to try adding habanero peppers. I love that you added orange juice too!

      Reply
    2. Beth

      April 01, 2021 at 5:54 pm

      5 stars
      This was so delicious and very tasty! My daughter loves anything spicy, so this was perfect for her!

      Reply
    3. Jesey

      April 01, 2021 at 8:25 am

      5 stars
      So fresh and delicious! I love spicy food!

      Reply
    4. Michelle

      March 31, 2021 at 6:32 pm

      5 stars
      Loved this habanero salsa! I love LOVE LOVE!! spicy foods so this is totally up my alley! Thank you for sharing!

      Reply
      • Naoko

        September 06, 2021 at 1:55 pm

        5 stars
        Fanatic recipe. I used regular white onions instead of red not a huge fan on red onions. Adding some orange juice is delicious and tasty.

        Reply
    5. rebecca

      March 31, 2021 at 4:23 pm

      5 stars
      this'll definitely make me sweat like a dog! but it'll be totally worth it

      Reply

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    Hi, I'm Kate, a journalist, author and multi-award-winning food blogger. I hope you enjoy my vegetarian and vegan recipes. About Me

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    Kate Hackworthy in the kitchen

    Hi, I'm Kate, a journalist, author and multi-award-winning food blogger. I hope you enjoy my vegetarian and vegan recipes. About Me

    Collage of press logos.

    Popular recipes

    • The BEST Easy Red Lentil Dahl
    • Easy Naan Bread Recipe (yeast-free)
    • Mini Baked Potatoes
    • Easy Lentil Soup

    Easter Recipes

    • Easter Rice Krispie Nests
    • Italian Easter Bread (Pane di Pasqua)
    • Mushroom Wellington
    • Nut Roast

    My cookbook

    Veggie Desserts and Cakes Cookbook cover.

    Check out my Veggie Desserts Cookbook, full of tasty desserts with vegetables!

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