Step 1

Remove the stems, seeds, and veins from the chiles. Discard.

Step 2

Peel the cloves of garlic.

Step 3

Chop the cilantro. You can use the stems.

Step 4

Put all the ingredients in a pan.

Step 5

Add just enough water to cover the ingredients, about 4 cups.

Step 6

Bring the water to a boil then reduce the heat to low.

Step 7

Simmer for 1 minute then turn off the heat.

Step 8

Allow the ingredients to soak for 15 minutes. The dried chiles will reconstitute at this time.

Step 9

Pour all of the ingredients including 2 cups the soaking water into the blender.

Step 10

Blend until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add a little water if needed to blend.

Step 11

Strain the mixture into mixing a bowl. Discard the paste that remains in the strainer.

Step 12

Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in your saucepan over medium heat then add the strained salsa and 1 tsp. salt.

Step 13

Turn the heat to low. Add up to a cup of soaking water to get the desired consistency.

Step 14

Simmer the salsa for 30 minutes until it thickens. The salsa will darken in color during this time.

Step 15

Taste the salsa and add salt if needed to get the desired taste.