Tomatillos are an important part of Mexican cooking, known for their tart taste and bright green color. But what is the best way to eat tomatillos? Although they are often overlooked in favor of tomatoes, tomatillos add a special flavor and texture to dishes, making them a great addition to many recipes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting to try new ingredients, learning how to best prepare, cook, and enjoy tomatillos can introduce you to a world of tasty possibilities. In this article, we’ll look at the health benefits of tomatillos, explore different ways to prepare them, and share some of the best ways to use them in your cooking.
What Are Tomatillos?
Tomatillos, also known as “Mexican husk tomatoes,” are small, green fruits that come from Mexico and Central America. hey belong to the same family as tomatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers. To learn more about the cultural significance of tomatillos, check out this article. However, unlike tomatoes, tomatillos grow inside a papery husk that you need to remove before eating. This husk gives them their special look and protects the fruit as it grows.
Differences Between Tomatillos and Green Tomatoes
Many people think tomatillos are just green tomatoes. However, even though they look similar, the two fruits are quite different. Tomatillos have a firmer texture, a more tart taste, and a sticky coating on the surface once you remove the husk. On the other hand, green tomatoes are simply unripe tomatoes that are firmer and less sweet than ripe ones.
Varieties of Tomatillos
You can find several kinds of tomatillos, each with its own flavor. The most common variety is the green tomatillo, which is often used in salsas and sauces. However, you might also come across purple tomatillos, which are slightly sweeter and often used in desserts or to add color to dishes. Yellow tomatillos are another kind, known for their milder flavor and softer texture. When you pick tomatillos at the market, these different varieties offer various taste experiences.
Nutritional Benefits of Tomatillos
In addition to their versatility in cooking, tomatillos are also packed with nutrients that are good for your health. They are low in calories but full of important vitamins and minerals. For example, a serving of tomatillos gives you a good amount of vitamin C, which is essential for your immune system, skin, and healing. Tomatillos also provide vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and vitamin A, which is good for your eyes and skin.
Moreover, tomatillos are a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeping blood sugar levels stable, as outlined in this detailed guide on tomatillo nutrition. They also have antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect your eyes from damage and lower the risk of long-term diseases. For a more detailed look at the nutritional benefits of tomatillos, check out this detailed nutritional breakdown.
How to Select and Store Tomatillos
To keep tomatillos fresh and flavorful, it’s important to know how to pick and store them properly. When choosing tomatillos, look for fruits that feel firm, have a bright green color, and have husks that are intact. The husks should be slightly dry and papery, not damp or moldy. If the husk wraps tightly around the fruit, it means the tomatillo is fresh and hasn’t become overripe.
After picking your tomatillos, proper storage helps maintain their freshness. If you can’t find them locally, you can buy fresh tomatillos online. You can store tomatillos in their husks at room temperature for up to a week. However, if you need to store them longer, it’s best to remove the husks and place the tomatillos in a paper bag in the refrigerator. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to three weeks. If you’re interested in growing your own tomatillos at home, check out this guide on how to cultivate tomatillos at home.
Preparing Tomatillos for Cooking
Before you start cooking with tomatillos, you need to prepare them properly. First, remove the papery husk, which you can easily peel off from the fruit. After removing the husk, you’ll notice a sticky coating on the surface of the tomatillo. This coating is natural, so simply rinse it off under cool running water. After rinsing, dry the tomatillos with a paper towel.
Depending on the recipe, you might need to chop, slice, or puree the tomatillos. For salsas and sauces, tomatillos are often chopped or blended. When using them in cooked dishes, they can be sliced or quartered. Roasting or grilling tomatillos before adding them to a recipe can enhance their flavor, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding a smoky taste to your dishes.
Best Ways to Eat Tomatillos
1. Raw Tomatillos: Fresh and Zesty
One of the easiest and most refreshing ways to enjoy tomatillos is to eat them raw. Raw tomatillos have a crisp texture and a tangy flavor that can add a fresh touch to various dishes. Here are some ideas for using raw tomatillos in your meals:
- Salads: Dice raw tomatillos and add them to green salads or grain salads for a tangy crunch. They go well with ingredients like avocado, cucumber, radishes, and citrus fruits. The acidity of the tomatillos balances richer ingredients like creamy dressings or cheese.
- Salsas: Raw tomatillos are the star of many fresh salsas. To make a simple salsa verde, mix chopped tomatillos with finely diced onions, cilantro, and lime juice. For extra heat, add minced jalapeños or serrano peppers. This salsa verde works perfectly with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. For more ideas, explore this Tomatillo Pasta Recipe, which shows another tasty way to enjoy this ingredient.
- Ceviche: If you like ceviche, try adding diced tomatillos to the mix. Their tartness goes well with the citrus-marinated seafood, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
2. Roasted Tomatillos: Enhancing the Flavor
Roasting tomatillos is a popular cooking method that brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Roasted tomatillos are very versatile and can be used in many dishes, from salsas to soups. Here’s how to roast tomatillos and some ideas for using them:
- Roasting Method: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, place the husked and rinsed tomatillos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Next, drizzle them with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatillos are soft and slightly charred. You can also roast them under a broiler for a quicker char.
- Roasted Salsa Verde: Roasted tomatillos make a great base for salsa verde. After roasting, blend the tomatillos with garlic, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. As a result, this roasted salsa verde has a richer, deeper flavor than the raw version and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a topping for tacos. If you’re interested in a dish that includes both tomatillos and pasta, check out this Tomatillo Pasta Recipe for a unique twist on a classic dish.
- Soups and Stews: Roasted tomatillos add a complex flavor to soups and stews. For instance, you can add them to a vegetarian pozole or a hearty vegetable stew for a tangy twist. Their acidity balances the richness of the broth and other ingredients.
- Tomatillo-Cilantro Sauce: Another great use for roasted tomatillos is in a tomatillo-cilantro sauce. Blend roasted tomatillos with fresh cilantro, garlic, and a touch of honey for sweetness. This sauce is perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables or as a dip for tortilla chips.
3. Tomatillos in Sauces and Salsas
One of the most common and traditional ways to enjoy tomatillos is in sauces and salsas. The natural acidity of tomatillos makes them an ideal base for these condiments, which elevate a wide range of dishes. Here are some classic and creative ways to use tomatillos in sauces and salsas:
- Traditional Salsa Verde: The most famous use of tomatillos is in salsa verde, a bright and tangy green sauce that’s a staple in Mexican cuisine. To make salsa verde, blend tomatillos with garlic, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños. This versatile sauce can be used as a dip for chips, a topping for tacos, or a sauce for enchiladas. For a more traditional recipe, check out this authentic salsa verde recipe.
- Tomatillo-Avocado Sauce: For a creamy variation, blend tomatillos with ripe avocado, lime juice, and cilantro. Consequently, this sauce is rich and tangy, perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables or using as a dip for fresh veggies.
- Tomatillo-Chile Sauce: Combine roasted tomatillos with roasted poblano peppers, garlic, and a splash of vegetable broth to create a flavorful tomatillo-chile sauce. This sauce is great for spooning over grilled chicken or roasted potatoes.
- Tomatillo and Pineapple Salsa: For a sweet and tangy twist, combine chopped tomatillos with fresh pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. As a result, this salsa works perfectly with grilled fish or as a topping for vegetarian tacos.
4. Tomatillos in Cooked Dishes
Cooked tomatillos add a unique flavor to a variety of dishes, from stews and casseroles to grilled vegetables. Their acidity helps balance rich, hearty ingredients, making them a versatile addition to many recipes. Here are some delicious ways to use cooked tomatillos:
- Vegetarian Pozole Verde: Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew usually made with hominy and pork. However, you can create a tasty vegetarian version by substituting the meat with hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or beans. The key to the flavor of this dish is the tomatillo broth, which adds a tangy, vibrant taste. Serve with shredded lettuce, radishes, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing, satisfying meal.
- Tomatillo Enchiladas: Tomatillos make a fantastic sauce for enchiladas. First, prepare a tomatillo sauce by blending roasted tomatillos with garlic, onions, and cilantro. Then, use this sauce to smother enchiladas filled with roasted vegetables and black beans. Bake until bubbly and serve with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro.
- Tomatillo Rice: Cooked tomatillos can be pureed and added to rice for a flavorful side dish. Simply blend cooked tomatillos with vegetable broth, garlic, and cilantro, then stir into cooked rice. This tangy tomatillo rice pairs well with grilled vegetables or beans.
- Grilled Vegetables with Tomatillo Sauce: Grilled vegetables get a boost from a tangy tomatillo sauce. Grill a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, and drizzle with a roasted tomatillo-cilantro sauce for a vibrant, flavorful dish.
5. Tomatillos in Drinks and Desserts
While tomatillos are mostly used in savory dishes, they can also add a surprising twist to drinks and desserts. Their tart flavor can be balanced with sweetness to create refreshing beverages and light desserts. Here are some creative ways to use tomatillos in drinks and desserts:
- Tomatillo Agua Fresca: Agua fresca is a light, refreshing beverage popular in Mexico, often made with fresh fruits. To make a tomatillo agua fresca, blend tomatillos with lime juice, honey, and water. Strain the mixture to remove any solids, then serve over ice. Therefore, this drink is perfect for hot summer days, offering a tart and refreshing alternative to traditional fruit-based aguas frescas.
- Tomatillo Sorbet: For a unique dessert, try making a tomatillo sorbet. Puree tomatillos with lime juice, a touch of honey, and a pinch of salt. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. As a result, the sorbet is light and tangy, perfect for cleansing the palate after a rich meal.
- Tomatillo and Citrus Popsicles: Combine tomatillos with orange juice, lime juice, and a bit of sweetener to make refreshing popsicles. The tartness of the tomatillos pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the citrus, creating a refreshing treat.
- Tomatillo-Cucumber Smoothie: Blend tomatillos with cucumber, spinach, lime juice, and a bit of honey for a refreshing and nutritious smoothie. This drink is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a great way to start your day.
FAQs about Tomatillos
Are Tomatillos the Same as Green Tomatoes?
No, tomatillos are not the same as green tomatoes. While they may look similar, tomatillos are a different fruit with a distinct tart flavor. Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that have a firmer texture and a slightly sour taste, while tomatillos have a tangier, more acidic flavor.
Can You Eat Tomatillos Raw?
Yes, tomatillos can be eaten raw. Their crisp texture and tart flavor make them a great addition to salads, salsas, and other fresh dishes. Eating them raw allows you to enjoy their natural zing and vibrant taste.
What is the Best Way to Store Tomatillos?
Store tomatillos in their husks at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to store them longer, remove the husks and refrigerate the tomatillos in a paper bag. This will keep them fresh for up to three weeks. Proper storage ensures that tomatillos retain their flavor and texture until you’re ready to use them.
What Do Tomatillos Taste Like?
Tomatillos have a tart, slightly citrusy flavor that is less sweet than tomatoes. Their taste is often described as bright and tangy, making them a great ingredient for adding acidity to dishes. The flavor of tomatillos can vary slightly depending on whether they are eaten raw or cooked, with cooked tomatillos having a milder, sweeter taste.
Are Tomatillos Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, tomatillos are a great addition to a weight loss diet. They are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied. Tomatillos also provide important vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
Adding tomatillos to your diet is not only a delicious way to enjoy their unique flavor but also a great way to boost your nutrition. Whether you prefer them raw, roasted, or in a sauce, tomatillos offer a versatile and healthy addition to a variety of dishes. From fresh salads and tangy salsas to flavorful soups and desserts, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking with tomatillos. By exploring these different methods of preparation, you can fully appreciate the culinary potential of this vibrant fruit.