How To Cook With Tomatillos? | Tips, Recipes & Ideas

If you are looking for a new way to liven up your cooking routine, tomatillos may be exactly the ingredient you need! Tomatillos have become increasingly more popular in the culinary world over recent years. With their tart flavor and unique texture, they bring an excellent twist to traditional recipes. Not only do they provide an interesting flavor component to your dishes but also pack nutrition that is good for you too! Whether you are preparing breakfast, lunch or dinner, discover how easy it is to add tomatillos into any meal with these simple tips and ideas on how to cook with tomatillos.

What Are Tomatillos And Its Origin?

Tomatillos are a member of the nightshade family and closely related to tomatoes. Originating in Mexico, this small fruit is green in color and covered by a papery husk. They have an acidic flavor that is similar to green apples that can be used for savory dishes as well as sweet treats.

Nutritional Value Of Tomatillos

Tomatillos are a great source of vitamins and minerals. One cup of the cooked fruit provides 2 grams of dietary fiber, 12 percent of the daily recommendation for vitamin C, 8 percent for potassium and 4 percent for magnesium. Additionally, tomatillos are low in calories, containing only 32 per one-cup serving.

Shopping For Tomatillos For Cooking

When shopping for tomatillos, be sure to check that the husks are free of any mold. Once you have determined that the fruits look good and firm, select accordingly with how much you plan on using. The husks should easily come off when ready for cooking, but if they appear to stick on then it means they need more time ripening on the counter.

Ingredients For Cooking With Tomatillos

Once your tomatillos are prepared, it is time to gather the rest of your ingredients. Depending on what type of dish you plan on making, ingredients will vary. However, some common ones to include might be onion, garlic, lime juice and herbs such as cilantro and oregano. Additionally, for a bit of heat add in your favorite chilies or hot sauce.

Preparing Tomatillos For Cooking

Before beginning to cook with tomatillos, it is important to remove the husks and rinse off any dirt. To do this, first fill a bowl of warm water and submerge your tomatillos into it for several seconds before taking them out and peeling back the husks. After this step is complete, a final rinse should be done to remove any debris that was left behind.

How To Add Flavor To Tomatillos?

Tomatillos are a great addition to any meal, but can also be enjoyed on their own. The tart flavor pairs perfectly with sweet ingredients like honey or agave syrup, which helps to balance out the flavors in your dishes. Herbs and spices such as oregano, cumin and coriander can also be used to enhance the taste of tomatillos. Additionally, lightly roasting the fruit in the oven or on the stovetop helps to bring out its natural sweetness and create a delicious aroma.

How To Cook With Tomatillos?

Learn about how to cook with tomatillos:

How To Grilled With Tomatillos?

Grilling tomatillos brings out their flavor to a whole new level. To do this, lightly brush the fruit with oil and place them on an oiled grill for 5-7 minutes. Turn over every few minutes until they begin to blacken and become slightly charred around the edges. Once cooked, you can serve as is or use in your favorite recipes.

How To Roast Tomatillos?

Roasting tomatillos in the oven creates a sweet, caramelized flavor that is hard to resist. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil. Place your tomatillos on the sheet, making sure to keep them spread out evenly. Add in any spices such as salt, pepper and garlic powder. Roast the tomatillos for 15-20 minutes or until they soften and begin to brown on the edges.

How To Saute Tomatillos?

Sauteing tomatillos is an excellent way to bring out their unique tart flavor. Begin by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Next, add in your tomatillos and season with salt and pepper. Saute for 5-7 minutes or until the fruit softens and begins to brown on the edges.

How To Simmer Tomatillos?

Simmering tomatillos helps to bring out their natural sweetness while creating a flavorful broth that can be used in soups or sauces. To do this, begin by heating oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your tomatillos to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it thickens slightly. Use this flavorful broth as a base for any of your favorite dishes.

How Long To Cook With Tomatillos?

The time it takes to cook with tomatillos will depend on the method you choose. For grilling, the entire process should take 7-10 minutes. Roasting in the oven will take around 20 minutes, sautéing for 5-7 minutes and simmering for 10-15 minutes.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time With Tomatillos

The size of the tomatillos will affect how long they take to cook. Smaller ones may only require a few minutes while larger pieces may need up to 10-15 minutes. Additionally, the cooking method you choose will also determine the amount of time needed for cooking. For example, roasting in a hot oven will take much longer than simply sautéing them. Finally, the level of doneness you prefer will also affect the cooking time. For a softer texture be sure to cook for slightly longer than if you were aiming for a crispier bite.

How To Speed Up Cooking Time With Tomatillos?

If you’re short on time and need to get your tomatillos cooked quickly, then try grilling or roasting in a hot oven. Both of these methods require less prep and cook relatively fast. Alternatively, if you have more time to spare, simmering is a great option as it allows the flavors to infuse into the broth while creating a delicious base for your dish.

Notes When Cooking With Tomatillos

When cooking with tomatillos, always make sure to season properly. Due to the tartness of the fruit, it can easily become overpowered by other ingredients. Adding a pinch of salt and pepper helps to bring out its flavor and balance out any heavy spices that are added in. Additionally, when grilling or roasting be sure not to overcook as this can cause the tomatillos to become mushy and unappetizing. Finally, when sautéing or simmering, make sure to keep an eye on them and stir frequently as this will help to avoid burning or sticking. With these tips in mind, you should be able to cook with tomatillos easily.

Tips And Tricks Cook With Perfect Tomatillos

There are several tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking with tomatillos. For a milder flavor, avoid adding too many spices as this can overpower the taste of the fruit. Additionally, if roasting or grilling on a pan be sure to use enough oil or non-stick spray so that they do not stick to the surface. Finally, when sautéing or simmering, add in some water if the mixture gets too dry as this will help to prevent burning. With these tips, you should be able to cook perfect tomatillos every time.

What To Serve With Tomatillos?

Tomatillos make a great addition to any meal. They pair well with other Mexican ingredients such as beans, rice and chilies. Additionally, they can be used in sauces and soups or added to salads for a bright pop of flavor. For a lighter dish, try serving roasted tomatillos with some grilled vegetables and quinoa. Or, if you’re looking for something more indulgent, try using them in a creamy cilantro and tomatillo salsa. Whatever you choose to serve with your tomatillos, the possibilities are endless.

How To Store Leftover Tomatillos?

Any leftover tomatillos should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months, just make sure to thaw them completely before using. Additionally, you can puree and freeze raw tomatillos to use in smoothies or sauces later on. With these tips, you can make sure to get the most out of your tomatillos and enjoy them for many meals to come.

Recipes To Try With Tomatillos

• Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Tomatillo Salsa: Combine grilled shrimp with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes in a soft corn tortilla and top with a creamy tomatillo salsa for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Tomatillo Avocado Salad: Mix together diced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, squeezed lime juice and salt to create a zesty salad dressing. Combine this with cooked quinoa, tomatoes and grilled tomatillos for a delicious and healthy side dish.
• Creamy Tomatillo Soup: Combine cooked tomatillos, roasted poblanos, garlic and vegetable broth in a large pot and let simmer for 15 minutes. Puree the mixture until smooth and season with salt, pepper and cumin if desired. Serve hot with fresh herbs or cheese as garnish.

Conclusion: How To Cook With Tomatillos?

Cooking with tomatillos is a great way to liven up any dish. Whether you prefer to grill, roast, sauté or simmer these tart fruits they are sure to add a unique and flavorful touch. Just remember to season properly and keep an eye on the cooking time for best results. Finally, be sure to store any leftover tomatillos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for later use. With these tips, you should be able to cook with tomatillos like a pro.

FAQ: Tomatillos

Can you use raw tomatillos?

Discover the versatile tomatillo, perfect for both raw and cooked dishes. Unleash their full potential by cooking them to enhance their unique and tangy flavor. Seek out the finest tomatillos, mostly imported from Mexico, at your local supermarket.

Can you cook tomatillos like tomatoes?

Discover the tomatillo: a vibrant, flavorful fruit that resembles a miniature tomato. Known as the “little tomato” in Spanish, this small, green sphere originates from Mexico. With its disease-resistant properties as a part of the nightshade family, the tomatillo plant thrives. Enjoy the versatility of tomatillos – savor them raw or cooked to enhance your culinary experience.

Why do you boil tomatillos?

Discover two delicious ways to prepare tomatillos: raw for a tangy green salsa or boiled for a softer taste. Elevate your enchilada recipe by first roasting the tomatillos, enhancing their flavor with a hint of earthiness and a touch of spice.

How do you cook raw tomatillos?

Prepare the tomatillos by slicing or chopping them after removing the husks and washing them. Heat olive oil or a neutral oil like vegan butter in a skillet. Add the tomatillos to the skillet and sauté them until they become tender and golden on both sides, typically taking around 6 to 8 minutes. If desired, sprinkle the tomatillos with salt and pepper or any other preferred herbs for added flavor.

Do you peel tomatillos after boiling?

Peeling the skin off tomatillos is optional after cooking.

Are tomatillos better boiled or roasted?

After comparing both boiled and roasted tomatillos, I firmly believe that boiling is the superior method. While roasted tomatillos are enjoyable, they lack the fresh, green flavor and bright tanginess that boiled ones possess. Roasted tomatillos tend to taste over-cooked and smoky.

What happens when you overcook tomatillos?

To avoid a soapy flavor in your salsa, make sure to thoroughly rinse the tomatillos to remove their sticky residue. Additionally, be careful not to overcook them. Charred over a flame or broiled to perfection, tomatillos can create a deliciously tangy and slightly sweet green sauce.

Why does my tomatillos taste bitter?

Tomatillo salsa bitterness is often caused by under or overripe tomatillos. It’s important to use tomatillos at their peak freshness for the best flavor. Using tomatillos that are not fully ripe can throw off the acidity balance in your salsa, resulting in a bitter taste.

Do you wash tomatillos before cooking

To prepare tomatillos for cooking, start by removing their papery husks. Simply peel them off and give the tomatillos a quick rinse in warm water to eliminate any sticky residue or adhered bits.

Are tomatillos hard when ripe?

Yes, tomatillos should be firm and bright green when ripe. Avoid purchasing or using tomatillos that appear bruised or soft. This is a sign of them being overripe. Tomatillos will also turn yellow as they ripen, but this is less common than the green variety.

How do you know when tomatillos are done?

When cooking tomatillos, you’ll know they’re done when the skins start to wrinkle. At this point, they should be soft enough to easily mash with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them or they can become bitter or mushy. Depending on the method of cooking, it could take anywhere from 6-15 minutes for the tomatillos to be done.