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Purple Tomatillos

Fruit

Description
The purple tomatillo, pronounced tohm-ah-TEE-oh, offers a sharper and sweeter flavor than the green tomatillo. The edible fruit is encased in a wrapper-like husk or calyx reminiscent to an oriental lampshade of sorts. Varying from one inch in diameter to plum-size and easily peeled, the texture is somewhat gelatinous. Having a citric edge, this fruit is most often cooked to develop the lemony-herbal flavor it is prized for and to soften its firm exterior. Raw fruit offers a sharp acidic taste. Like tomatoes, tomatillos make great sauces and offer an even richer flavor.

Grow Region
California Mexico

Storage Temperature
Purple tomatillos especially make a striking salsa to surprise and wow guests. Excellent for cooked salsas, sauces and preserves, tomatillos are more popular cooked than raw. Spice up an apple pie. Great for grilling. Chop raw in salads, gazpacho or as a colorful edible garnish for cold soups and salads. Raw slivers add flavor and color to sandwiches. Pureed or chopped, make a colorful tart dressing. Onions, cilantro, chili peppers and garlic enhance flavor. Tomatillo sauces liven up potatoes, chicken enchiladas, tacos, stews, casseroles and cheese dishes. To store, refrigerate. Good keepers, put in a paper-lined basket or dish. Cooked tomatillos freeze well. Husk; wash; remove stem; immerse in water just enough to cover; simmer until softened but not squishy. Allow to cool in liquid; freeze in cooking liquid. Use both liquid and fruit; do not drain.

Availability

Seasons/Availability
A rare heirloom variety, Purple Tomatillos are typically available during September.

Nutritional Facts

Low in calories, one cup contains about 95 calories. Tomatillos provide a fair amount of vitamin A and vitamin K. Eating five daily servings of fruits and vegetables lowers the chances of cancer. A recent study found that eating nine or ten daily servings of fruits and vegetables, combined with three daily servings of low-fat dairy products, were effective in lowering blood pressure.