The Great Salsa Hunt

Approximately once every other week there’s an expat or someone about to move to New Zealand who is looking for information on passable salsas. Y’all, the struggle is real. There’s not much in the way of good Mexican food in general (though there are some hidden gems!) and we’re all trying to get a taco fix. The grocery store salsas are the worst of American options (Old El Paso) and the Kiwi versions are strangely sweet and not right (Tia Pablo).

Yet there is no need to try to ship a lifetime’s worth of salsa over the New Zealand. There are two legitimately good options. The first, Tex-As-Salsas, is made by an ex-Texan, but she doesn’t ship directly anymore, but you can order a couple of options from Low N Slow BBQ Supplies or visit one of the stockists to indulge. Unfortunately there aren’t any in Auckland. The verde is my favorite!

The second option is from the Red Hot Kiwi Co. We found this company at the Clevedon Market but they also deliver! A Coloradan (Coloradian?) expat is behind this company and his extra spicy is pretty much the only salsa my husband wants to eat anymore.

If you absolutely must go a grocery store route, our local New World carries a La Morena red salsa that is the best option out there, but I don’t know if if is universally available in every New World. Look for the can next to the jalapeño refried beans (also delicious if you’re making Mexican and want a little kick).

Another option is to check out the American Foods stores. At Martha’s Backyard in Auckland, I’ve regularly found imported salsas- everything from Trader Joe’s jars to small batch habanero based sauces that will light you up. Unfortunately, these items never seem to make it onto their websites. If you’re thinking about placing an order, I’d call the store to see if they have anything in stock that isn’t online.