Fresh tomatillo salsa
Fresh Tomatillo Salsa Recipe from Mexico
Introduction
Fresh tomatillo salsa is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. This tangy and flavorful salsa is perfect for dipping chips, topping tacos, or adding a burst of flavor to grilled meats.
History
Tomatillos are a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine and have been used for centuries to add flavor and depth to dishes. Fresh tomatillo salsa, also known as salsa verde, is a traditional Mexican condiment that is made by roasting tomatillos, garlic, and chilies and blending them together with cilantro and onions.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Roast the above ingredients in an oil-free cast iron pan, turning occasionally. Leave the husks on the tomatillos while you roast them. The husks will be nicely blackened, the skins translucent, and the fruits soft when they are done. (Let me add: The goal is to blacken the skin while minimizing tomatillo explosions. This way, they won't lose juice into the pan, which can burn and create unpleasant smells. Remember to move them around the pan as they roast.) Put the roasted vegetables in a food processor with 0.5 tsp of salt and 0.25 cup of cilantro, then process briefly. Transfer the mixture to a pot and cook for 5 minutes. (This step darkens the mixture and mellows the flavors. Otherwise, it may taste too raw.)
Variations
- Add roasted jalapenos or serrano peppers for extra heat.
- Substitute parsley for cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice for a citrusy kick.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When roasting the tomatillos, make sure to leave the husks on to prevent them from exploding and losing their juices.
- Be sure to move the vegetables around the pan while roasting to ensure even cooking.
- Cooking the salsa for a few minutes after blending helps to deepen the flavors and remove any raw taste.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh tomatillo salsa is delicious served with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for eggs or salads.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting the tomatillos, garlic, and chilies adds depth and smokiness to the salsa. Blending the ingredients together creates a smooth and flavorful sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find fresh tomatillos, you can use canned tomatillos as a substitute. You can also use canned green chilies in place of fresh green chilies.
Make Ahead Tips
Fresh tomatillo salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
Presentation Ideas
Serve fresh tomatillo salsa in a colorful bowl with a garnish of fresh cilantro or a slice of lime. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top for a glossy finish.
Pairing Recommendations
Fresh tomatillo salsa pairs well with Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. It also complements grilled meats, seafood, and roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store fresh tomatillo salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of fresh tomatillo salsa contains approximately 20 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of fresh tomatillo salsa contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Fresh tomatillo salsa is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.
Proteins
Fresh tomatillo salsa contains minimal protein, with less than 1 gram per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomatillos are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. They also contain small amounts of vitamin A, vitamin E, and folate.
Alergens
Fresh tomatillo salsa is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. However, it may contain allergens such as garlic and onions.
Summary
Fresh tomatillo salsa is a low-calorie, low-fat condiment that is rich in vitamin C and potassium.
Summary
Fresh tomatillo salsa is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a burst of tangy goodness to a variety of dishes. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this salsa is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for fresh tomatillo salsa. It was many years ago, during a trip to Mexico with my husband. We were wandering through a bustling market in Oaxaca, surrounded by vibrant colors and the irresistible aroma of spices and fresh produce.
As we strolled through the market, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the array of ingredients that surrounded us. The stalls were overflowing with ripe tomatoes, fiery chilies, fragrant cilantro, and of course, tomatillos. I had never cooked with tomatillos before, but their bright green color and tart flavor intrigued me.
I struck up a conversation with a local vendor who was selling tomatillos, and he graciously shared his recipe for fresh tomatillo salsa with me. He explained that tomatillos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, prized for their tangy flavor and versatility in sauces and salsas.
I couldn't wait to try my hand at making the salsa myself, so I bought a large bag of tomatillos and headed back to our rental house. As soon as we got home, I set to work in the kitchen, chopping, blending, and tasting as I went along.
The recipe was surprisingly simple, calling for just a handful of ingredients – tomatillos, onions, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and chilies. I roasted the tomatillos and chilies over an open flame, giving them a smoky char that added depth to the salsa. I then blended everything together until it was smooth and bright green in color.
The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating – tangy, spicy, and fresh. I couldn't resist dipping a tortilla chip into the salsa and taking a bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue – tangy tomatillos, fiery chilies, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro. It was a perfect balance of flavors, bright and bold.
I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a favorite in my repertoire. Over the years, I have made this fresh tomatillo salsa countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add extra chilies for a spicier kick, or a dash of honey for a touch of sweetness. Each batch is a little different, but always delicious.
I have shared this recipe with friends and family, serving it alongside tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, and even scrambled eggs. It never fails to impress, eliciting oohs and aahs from those who taste it for the first time.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that day in the bustling market in Oaxaca, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this recipe. It has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a taste of Mexico that I can recreate in my own kitchen whenever the mood strikes.
I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to inspire creativity. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express myself and connect with others. And this recipe for fresh tomatillo salsa is a testament to that passion – a simple yet flavorful dish that has brought joy to so many.
So the next time you find yourself in a market, surrounded by fresh ingredients and new flavors, don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with a local vendor. You never know what culinary treasures you might discover, what recipes might become beloved staples in your own kitchen.
And if you happen to come across a batch of tomatillos, why not give this recipe a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. Just be prepared for the excitement that washes over you as you take that first bite – a taste of Mexico that will transport you to a bustling market, a sunny day, and a moment of culinary inspiration.