lb tomatillos husked
Tomatillos are low in calories and rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, with a notable fiber content from their seeds. They also contain beneficial compounds like chlorogenic acid.
About
Tomatillos (Physalis philadelphica) are small, round fruits native to Mexico and Central America, belonging to the nightshade family. The fruit grows enclosed in a distinctive papery husk (called a calyx) that must be removed before use. They typically range from 1 to 2 inches in diameter and transition from green to yellow-green when mature. Tomatillos have a tart, citrusy, slightly herbaceous flavor profile with firm flesh containing many small seeds. The most common culinary variety is the 'Verdadero' or green tomatillo, though yellow and purple varieties also exist, with yellow being slightly sweeter.
Culinary Uses
Tomatillos are fundamental to Mexican cuisine, most famously in salsa verde (green salsa), where they are typically roasted or simmered and blended with cilantro, onions, and chiles. They provide a bright, acidic backbone to salsas, chilaquiles, and ceviche preparations. Beyond Mexican cooking, tomatillos are increasingly used in contemporary cuisine for their tartness, appearing in sauces, soups, jams, and as a garnish for grilled meats and fish. They can be eaten raw in salsas for a crisper texture or cooked to develop deeper, more complex flavors. Their acidity makes them a natural complement to rich, fatty foods.