Manufacturer Name: Salsa Tamazula
Location: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
Founded: 1954
Website: salsavalentina.com
About the Manufacturer: Valentina Hot Sauce is crafted by Salsa Tamazula, a family-owned company that has been producing traditional Mexican sauces since 1954. Known for its distinct flavor and affordable price, Valentina has become one of Mexico’s most popular hot sauces and is now widely available internationally. The brand prides itself on producing sauces with authentic Mexican ingredients and flavors, making it a staple in households and restaurants alike.
Signature Sauce(s):
- Valentina Salsa Picante (Regular)
- Heat Level: Mild to Medium
- Flavor Profile: A tangy, slightly vinegary sauce with rich chili flavor, made from Mexican puya and serrano peppers. It has a balanced heat that is both approachable and flavorful.
- Pairing Suggestions: Ideal for tacos, nachos, chips, pizza, popcorn, and even fresh fruit, like mangoes and watermelon.
- Valentina Extra Hot (Black Label)
- Heat Level: Medium to Hot
- Flavor Profile: A spicier version of the original, with a bolder chili flavor and more intense heat, while still retaining the same tangy base.
- Pairing Suggestions: Great for adding an extra kick to street tacos, grilled meats, seafood, and as a topping for spicy snacks like chicharrones or elotes (Mexican street corn).
Unique Ingredients: Valentina uses a unique blend of Mexican chili peppers (primarily puya and serrano), water, vinegar, and spices, giving the sauce its distinctively mild, earthy heat with a tangy undertone. Unlike many hot sauces, Valentina is known for having a thicker, slightly chunky texture.
Production Process: The chilis are carefully selected, processed, and blended with vinegar and spices to create the signature tangy flavor of Valentina. Unlike many vinegar-forward hot sauces, Valentina focuses more on the natural flavors of the chilis and spices, which are blended and cooked to achieve the perfect consistency and depth of flavor.
Awards & Recognition: Valentina is celebrated as one of the top hot sauces in Mexico and enjoys a global following, known for its affordability, iconic yellow label, and distinctive flavor. It has appeared in numerous publications as a fan-favorite hot sauce for everyday use.
Sustainability Efforts: Salsa Tamazula is committed to environmentally responsible manufacturing, sourcing ingredients from local Mexican farmers, and focusing on efficient production practices that minimize waste and environmental impact.
Customer Favorites: Valentina’s Regular sauce is beloved for its approachable spice and versatility, while the Extra Hot (Black Label) variety attracts fans who want a more intense chili kick without overwhelming heat.
Social Media Presence:
- Instagram: @salsavalentinaoficial
- Facebook: Valentina Hot Sauce
Fun Fact: Valentina is often paired with fresh fruit, a traditional Mexican street food snack. Its tangy, slightly salty flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of mango, pineapple, and watermelon, making it a favorite summertime treat across Mexico.