Known across Yucatán as xnipec — ‘dog’s nose’ in Mayan, because it makes your nose run — Salsa de Chile Habanero is the peninsula’s essential table salsa. Fresh habaneros, sour orange, red onion and cilantro are chopped, never blended, so every spoonful has texture and fire. A few drops transform beans, eggs, tacos or grilled meat into something unforgettable.
Salsa de Chile Habanero
Known across Yucatán as xnipec — ‘dog’s nose’ in Mayan, because it makes your nose run — Salsa de Chile Habanero is the peninsula’s essential table salsa.

Step by stepInstructions
- Mince the habaneros as finely as you can — wear gloves and keep your hands away from your eyes.
- Combine the chiles with the onion, tomato, cilantro and garlic in a bowl.
- Pour in the sour orange juice and add the salt; stir well.
- Let the salsa rest for 15 minutes so the flavors bloom, then taste and adjust the salt.
- Serve with panuchos, cochinita, eggs, beans — anything that wants a spark.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Xnipec means 'dog's nose' in Mayan, because it makes your nose run — that is the point. It keeps for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, and the heat mellows as it sits.

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