How To Peel And Wash Tomatillos

Tomatillos, often mistaken for green tomatoes, are a unique and versatile fruit that play a crucial role in many Mexican dishes, such as salsa verde and enchiladas. Unlike tomatoes, tomatillos come with a papery husk that needs to be removed, and their slightly sticky skin must be thoroughly cleaned before cooking. Properly peeling and washing tomatillos is essential to ensure they are free of dirt and ready to enhance the flavors of your recipes. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of peeling and washing tomatillos, making it easy for you to prepare them for any dish. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these simple instructions will help you handle tomatillos with confidence and ease.

What You Need

Before you start peeling and washing your tomatillos, make sure you have the following items ready:

• Fresh Tomatillos: Select firm, bright green tomatillos with intact husks.
• Colander: For washing the tomatillos under running water.
• Knife: A small, sharp knife to remove the stems if necessary.

Having these materials on hand will make the process smooth and efficient, ensuring your tomatillos are properly prepared for cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Peeling the Tomatillos

Step 1: Remove the Outer Skin

• Gently grasp the papery husk and pull it away from the tomatillo. The skin is usually easy to peel off, but if it’s stubborn, you can make a small tear in the husk to get started.

Step 2: Detach the Stem

• If the husk is attached by the stem, use a knife to cut off the stem, or simply tear it off by hand. Ensure all remnants of the husk are removed.

Note: The tomatillos may feel sticky after peeling. This is normal and one reason why they need to be washed.

Washing the Tomatillos

Step 1: Place in a Colander

• Put the peeled tomatillos in a colander to make washing easier.

Step 2: Wash Under Running Water

• Rinse the tomatillos thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to wash each tomatillo individually to remove any dirt and the sticky film.

Step 3: Dry the Tomatillos

• Once washed, set the tomatillos aside to dry. You can pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel if necessary.

By following these steps, your tomatillos will be clean, peeled, and ready to use in your favorite recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat tomatillos raw?

Yes, tomatillos can be eaten raw, but they are often cooked to enhance their flavor and reduce their natural tartness. Raw tomatillos can be used in fresh salsas and salads.

How do you know when a tomatillo is ripe?

A ripe tomatillo is firm and fills out its husk completely. The husk should be dry and papery, while the fruit itself is bright green. Avoid tomatillos with shriveled or discolored husks.

What should I do if the tomatillos are too sticky?

The sticky residue on tomatillos is normal. Washing them thoroughly under running water, as described in the steps above, will remove this stickiness.

How do I store tomatillos?

Tomatillos can be stored in their husks in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can remove the husks and freeze the tomatillos in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Can I use tomatillos if they have turned yellow?

While tomatillos are best when bright green, they can still be used if they have turned yellow. However, the flavor may be sweeter and less tart than green tomatillos.

What are some common recipes that use tomatillos?

Tomatillos are a key ingredient in dishes like salsa verde, enchiladas verdes, and pozole. They can also be roasted and added to soups or stews for a tangy flavor.

How do I prepare tomatillos for cooking?

After peeling and washing, tomatillos can be chopped, sliced, or left whole depending on the recipe. They can be roasted, boiled, sautéed, or blended into sauces.

 

By understanding these frequently asked questions, you’ll be better prepared to work with tomatillos in your kitchen and make the most of this versatile ingredient.

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See also:

• Breadless Fried Green Tomatoes

• Tomato Marinade Recipe

• Tomato Toast Ideas