Canned tomatillos are a pantry staple for many, providing the bright, tangy flavor of tomatillos without the hassle of husking, peeling, or prepping fresh ones. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or just looking for ways to introduce a unique ingredient into your meals, canned tomatillos can be used in a wide variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using canned tomatillos, from traditional recipes to innovative ideas that can transform your meals. Let’s dive in!
What are Tomatillos?
Tomatillos, sometimes referred to as “Mexican husk tomatoes,” are a small, green fruit encased in a papery husk. They are native to Mexico and Central America and are a key ingredient in many traditional dishes, especially salsa verde. Despite their name, tomatillos are not just green tomatoes; they have a distinct tart flavor and firmer texture.
Tomatillos are also a nutritional powerhouse. They are low in calories but rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (particularly vitamin C and vitamin K), and antioxidants. These nutrients can help reduce inflammation and promote good digestion, making tomatillos a great addition to a balanced diet. For those looking to incorporate a healthy and tangy fruit into their meals, canned tomatillos are a convenient option.
Why Choose Canned Tomatillos?
History of tomatillos in Mexican cuisine explains their significance in various traditional dishes.
There are several benefits to using canned tomatillos, especially when fresh ones aren’t readily available:
- Convenience: No need to husk, roast, or prep fresh tomatillos. Canned tomatillos come ready to use straight from the can.
- Availability: Fresh tomatillos may not be available year-round, but canned tomatillos are easy to find in most supermarkets, regardless of the season.
- Consistency: Fresh tomatillos can vary in ripeness and flavor, but canned versions are processed at peak freshness, ensuring a consistent flavor and texture in every can.
- Long Shelf Life: Canned tomatillos last much longer than fresh ones, so you can keep them in your pantry until you’re ready to use them.
Canned tomatillos are perfect for a variety of dishes, from tangy salsas to hearty soups and even unexpected fusion recipes. Let’s explore the many ways you can incorporate them into your meals.
For a more in-depth look at the versatility of canned tomatillos, check out What is the best way to eat tomatillos? to inspire your next culinary creation.
Common Dishes Using Canned Tomatillos
Salsa Verde (Green Salsa)
Salsa verde is perhaps the most common and traditional way to use canned tomatillos. This Mexican green sauce is tangy, fresh, and incredibly easy to make, especially when using the canned version of tomatillos.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can canned tomatillos, drained
- 1-2 jalapeños (depending on your spice preference)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, drizzle over tacos, or use as a base for enchiladas.
Salsa verde is extremely versatile. You can use it as a condiment, a dip, or even as a marinade for chicken or vegetables. Want to try more variations? Do canned tomatillos need to be cooked? offers additional tips for creating the perfect salsa verde with canned tomatillos.
Green Enchiladas
Enchiladas verdes, or green enchiladas, are a flavorful and tangy take on traditional enchiladas. Canned tomatillos make it simple to whip up a vibrant green sauce that pairs beautifully with various fillings.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can canned tomatillos, blended into a sauce
- 10 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded chicken or a vegetarian filling like beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese (try mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the blended canned tomatillos and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- In another pan, lightly fry the corn tortillas until soft.
- Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken or beans and roll them up. Place them in a baking dish.
- Pour the tomatillo sauce over the enchiladas and top with cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Green enchiladas are a hearty, satisfying meal that can be adapted for vegetarians or made more filling with extra protein options like grilled tofu or black beans.
Chicken Pozole Verde
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy, and in this green version, canned tomatillos are used to add tangy depth to the broth. The combination of hominy, chicken, and a green tomatillo-based broth creates a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can canned tomatillos, blended
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced avocado and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the cumin and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the blended canned tomatillos and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken and hominy to the pot and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Stir in the cilantro and season with salt to taste.
- Serve with avocado slices and lime wedges.
Chicken pozole verde is a hearty and nutritious dish that can easily be customized with additional toppings like shredded lettuce, radishes, or tortilla strips.
Creative Ways to Use Canned Tomatillos
Beyond the traditional Mexican dishes, canned tomatillos can be used in a variety of creative ways to elevate your cooking. Here are some unexpected uses for this versatile ingredient.
Green Rice
Transform a simple side dish into something special with green rice made from canned tomatillos. This flavorful rice dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can even be served on its own as a light meal.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can canned tomatillos, blended
- 1 ½ cups rice (white or brown)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the blended canned tomatillos and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the rice and cook for another minute, stirring to coat the rice in the tomatillo mixture.
- Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and cover. Cook until the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice before serving.
Green rice is a wonderful accompaniment to many main dishes or can be used as a filling for burritos and wraps. You can find similar fusion ideas at Tomatillo Pasta Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pasta.
Tomatillo Soup
Tomatillo soup is a comforting and tangy dish that is both light and flavorful. By using canned tomatillos as a base, you can create a soup that’s perfect for any season. Whether you make a vegetarian version or add some protein, tomatillo soup is a versatile and nutritious meal.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can canned tomatillos, blended
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken (optional) or beans for a vegetarian version
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the cumin and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the blended canned tomatillos and broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the corn and cooked chicken or beans and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste and garnish with cilantro.
This soup is both light and satisfying, and it can be served with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread.
Tomatillo Guacamole
If you’re looking to give your guacamole a tangy twist, add canned tomatillos to the mix. The tartness of tomatillos complements the creamy texture of avocados, creating a unique and flavorful dip.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can canned tomatillos, chopped
- 2 ripe avocados
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mash the avocados until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped canned tomatillos, lime juice, onion, garlic, and cilantro.
- Season with salt to taste and serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos.
This tomatillo guacamole is a refreshing variation on the classic dip and is perfect for parties, barbecues, or as a snack.
Tips for Cooking with Canned Tomatillos
When working with canned tomatillos, it’s important to understand how to balance their tartness and pair them with complementary ingredients. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this versatile ingredient:
- Flavor Balancing: Canned tomatillos are naturally tart, so it’s important to balance that acidity with ingredients like creamy avocado, rich cheese, or a touch of sweetness from honey or fruit.
- Best Pairings: Cilantro, lime, garlic, and onions are classic pairings with tomatillos, but they also work well with corn, beans, and chicken in various dishes.
- Storage: Once you’ve opened a can of tomatillos, be sure to store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the leftovers for later use in soups and sauces.
FAQs
Can you use canned tomatillos instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatillos can be used in nearly any recipe that calls for fresh tomatillos. While the texture of canned tomatillos is softer, they offer a consistent flavor and are much more convenient when fresh tomatillos are not available.
Do you have to cook canned tomatillos?
No, canned tomatillos are pre-cooked during the canning process, which means you can use them straight out of the can in recipes like salsa. However, cooking them further in dishes like sauces, soups, and stews can enhance their flavor and texture.
Are canned tomatillos good for salsa verde?
Canned tomatillos are an excellent option for making salsa verde. They are already softened and can be blended into a smooth sauce quickly. The flavor is bright and tangy, making them a great substitute for fresh tomatillos.
What can you do with leftover canned tomatillos?
Leftover canned tomatillos can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. You can use them in various dishes like soups, salads, or even as a base for a salad dressing or marinade.
Conclusion
Canned tomatillos are a pantry essential that can bring a burst of bright, tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making traditional Mexican fare like salsa verde and enchiladas, or exploring more creative uses like tomatillo guacamole and green rice, the possibilities are endless. With their long shelf life and ease of use, canned tomatillos make it easy to add a unique and healthy ingredient to your meals. So next time you’re reaching for a can, remember all the delicious and versatile options at your fingertips!