Tomatillo Salsa I

Tomatillo Salsa I Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomatillo salsa is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. This tangy and slightly spicy salsa is perfect for dipping chips, topping tacos, or adding flavor to grilled meats.

History

Tomatillo salsa has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. Tomatillos are native to Mexico and have been used in traditional dishes like salsa verde for generations. The bright green color and tangy flavor of tomatillos make them a popular ingredient in many Mexican recipes.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of fresh tomatillos (about 12), husked
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
2 tsp of fresh lime juice
0.5 tsp kosher salt

How to prepare

To prepare the salsa, use a food processor to pulse the tomatillos until they are coarsely pureed.
Next, add the cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice, and salt to the food processor and pulse until all the ingredients are well combined.

Variations

For a smokier flavor, try roasting the tomatillos and jalapeño pepper before pureeing them in the food processor. You can also add other ingredients like avocado, garlic, or onion to customize the salsa to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When preparing tomatillo salsa, be sure to remove the husks from the tomatillos before using them. The tomatillos should be rinsed well to remove any sticky residue on the skin. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds from the jalapeño pepper before mincing it.

Serving Suggestions

Tomatillo salsa is delicious served with tortilla chips as a snack or appetizer. It can also be used as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or scrambled eggs.

Cooking Techniques

Using a food processor to puree the tomatillos ensures a smooth and consistent texture for the salsa. Be sure not to over-process the ingredients, as you want the salsa to have some texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find fresh tomatillos, you can use canned tomatillos instead. Just be sure to drain them well before using in the salsa.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomatillo salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve tomatillo salsa in a colorful bowl with a garnish of fresh cilantro or a slice of lime. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomatillo salsa pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables. It also complements dishes like enchiladas, quesadillas, or burritos.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tomatillo salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave the salsa for a few seconds or serve it at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of tomatillo salsa contains approximately 20 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of tomatillo salsa contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Tomatillo salsa is a low-fat condiment, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

There is less than 1 gram of protein in each serving of tomatillo salsa.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomatillos are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. These nutrients help support a healthy immune system and promote overall health.

Alergens

Tomatillo salsa is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a safe option for those with food allergies or sensitivities.

Summary

Tomatillo salsa is a low-calorie, low-fat condiment that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.

Summary

Tomatillo salsa is a flavorful and healthy condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. With its tangy flavor and bright green color, it is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Tomatillo Salsa. It was many years ago, during a trip to Mexico with my husband. We were exploring the vibrant markets of Oaxaca, when we stumbled upon a small stand selling fresh tomatillos. The vendor was making a delicious looking salsa with them, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I approached the vendor, a kind older woman with a warm smile, and asked her about the salsa. She graciously invited me to watch as she prepared it, explaining each step along the way. I watched in awe as she roasted the tomatillos and peppers over an open flame, imparting a smoky flavor to the salsa. She then blended them together with cilantro, onions, and garlic, creating a bright and tangy sauce that was bursting with flavor.

I asked her for the recipe, and she chuckled softly before handing me a piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions written in her neat handwriting. She told me that this salsa was a family recipe, passed down through generations, and she was happy to share it with me.

When we returned home from our trip, I couldn't wait to recreate the salsa in my own kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients and followed the steps I had learned in Mexico, adjusting the flavors to suit my own taste. The result was a delicious and authentic Tomatillo Salsa that reminded me of our time in Oaxaca.

Over the years, I have made this salsa countless times, experimenting with different variations and tweaking the recipe to perfection. I have shared it with friends and family, who always rave about its bold and zesty flavor. It has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the wonderful memories we made in Mexico.

As I look back on that day in the bustling market of Oaxaca, I am grateful for the kindness of the woman who shared her family recipe with me. It has become a cherished part of my own culinary tradition, a link to a culture and cuisine that I hold dear.

Now, whenever I make Tomatillo Salsa, I am transported back to that sunny day in Mexico, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the market. The aroma of roasted tomatillos and peppers fills my kitchen, and I am filled with a sense of joy and gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me as a cook.

I often think about that kind woman in Oaxaca, and wonder if she is still making her family salsa, passing down the recipe to the next generation. I like to imagine her standing in her kitchen, surrounded by the same ingredients that I now use in my own recipe, her hands moving deftly as she creates a flavorful and aromatic sauce.

In a way, this salsa has become more than just a recipe to me. It is a connection to a place and a people who opened their hearts and their kitchens to me, sharing their culinary secrets and traditions. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring us together, to bridge cultural divides and create lasting memories.

So when I make Tomatillo Salsa, I do so with a sense of gratitude and respect for the woman who first showed me how to make it. Her generosity and warmth have inspired me to continue exploring new flavors and techniques, to keep learning and growing as a cook. And for that, I will always be thankful.