Meet the Tomatillo
Tomatillos are small green or yellow fruits that resemble tomatoes, only they come in a papery husk. It is an ingredient that is often used in Mexican food. Yellow when ripe, most people use tomatillos when they are still green because they are easier to slice. The papery husk is similar to the appearance of the Chinese Lantern plant that is often grown for ornamental reasons. In fact, they are cousins, though the Chinese Lantern’s fruit is tasteless.
They are a bit acidic with a touch of lemon flavor. It is a common ingredient in salsa and other dishes that need to brighten their taste. Tomatillos and tomatoes are related. The Aztecs grew them to eat as early as 800 BC. They have been a popular food in Latin America ever since. They grow wild in Mexico. Domesticated varieties have very little differences.
Also known as jamberries or husk tomatoes, these small tart fruits contain a substance similar to pectin that thickens sauces and salsas when they are put in the refrigerator. Low in calories, the tomatillo is rich in potassium. It also contains vitamin C, folic acid, calcium, and vitamin A.
They play an integral part in Mexican food history. Be a part of history and use them in your recipes. Add them to salads, salsa, or any other raw dish to add a new, tangy taste.
Chop them and add them to your stir fries. They are tasty when combined with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and other veggies for a quick side dish. They are simple to prepare; just remove the husk and wash them. It is normal for the surface to feel slightly sticky.
As mentioned earlier, salsa verde would not be what it is without them. This green sauce is most frequently served over enchiladas, burritos and other dishes. To make the sauce, combine your tomatillos with garlic, onions, cilantro, salt, pepper, and chilies. Let them cook for a few minutes over low heat to blend flavors.
Tomatillo jam is a wonderful recipe that is highlighted by a sprinkling of cinnamon and clove during the cooking process. Use it as a savory jam with meat and other dishes, like you would with mint jelly. You can also add them to sauces and glazes that are baked on meats. They can also be frozen whole until you are ready to use them.
They are getting easier to find in many supermarkets. If yours does not stock them, try specialty markets or the farmer’s market. Pick out firm fruit with snug-fitting wrappers. The husks should be green or light brown. Keep them for up to a month in the fridge in a paper bag if you do not peel off the husks.
Tomatillos grown in the United States usually come from California and Texas. You can grow your own in most regions of the country. They do surprisingly well in cooler climates. Treat it like a tomato plant and it will do fine.
Traditional Mexican recipes make a great change from our usual staples and if you want to surprise your family with something deliciously different tonight, why not check out the recipes at MexicanFoodRecipes.org for some inspiring food ideas? Mexican food is nutritious and flavorful and sure to become a family favorite.
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