Emeril's Perfect Mexican Salsa and Homemade Tortilla Chips

Ingredients

3 ripe tomatoes (about 3/4 pound) or one 14-ounce can whole tomatoes, drained
1/4 cup chopped red onion
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of two limes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon Emeril's Hot Sauce or other red hot sauce
2 1/4 cups vegetable oil
1 cup corn tortillas, cut into quarters
Salt

Instructions

Makes 1 cup

In the bowl of a food processor, combine all ingredients and pulse until salsa is mostly smooth but still slightly chunky, about 7 pulses.

In a large, heavy deep pot or an electric fryer, heat 2 cups vegetable oil to 360 degrees. Deep-fry tortilla strips until lightly golden and crispy, 1 to 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Season with salt.

Transfer salsa to a bowl. Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and set aside until ready to serve with homemade tortilla chips.