If you're looking for a tasty addition to your salsa, then look no further than tomatillos. These green, tomato-like fruits are versatile and full of flavor. Plus, at just 145 calories per pound, they make for a healthy addition to any dish.
Not only are tomatillos low in calories, but they're also packed with vitamins and minerals. Just one pound of tomatillos contains more than 50% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C and over 20% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K. They also provide potassium, fiber, and niacin.
In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of tomatillos, how to select and store them, and different ways to cook them to bring out their delicious flavor.
Calories in 1 Lb Tomatillos
As previously mentioned, one pound of tomatillos contains around 145 calories. This makes them a low-calorie addition to any dish, whether you're making salsa, guacamole, or a delicious tomatillo sauce.
Vitamins and Minerals in Tomatillos
Tomatillos are a great source of vitamins and minerals. As mentioned previously, they provide over 50% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C and over 20% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K. They also provide potassium, fiber, and niacin, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
Health Benefits of Tomatillos
Tomatillos offer a variety of health benefits. They contain antioxidants, which help to protect against disease and slow down the aging process. They are also known to promote good digestion and can even help to lower cholesterol levels.
How to Select and Store Tomatillos
When selecting tomatillos, look for firm, green fruits with tight-fitting husks. Avoid tomatillos with wrinkled or mushy husks, as they may be less fresh or even spoiled. Store tomatillos in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Different Ways to Cook Tomatillos
Tomatillos can be used in a variety of dishes, from salsa to guacamole to a delicious tomatillo sauce. They can be grilled, roasted, or boiled, depending on the recipe. Experiment with different cooking methods to bring out their unique flavor.
Tomatillo Salsa Recipe
To make a delicious tomatillo salsa, combine chopped tomatillos, jalapenos, onions, garlic, and cilantro in a food processor. Add lime juice and salt to taste. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dish.
Tomatillo Guacamole Recipe
To make tomatillo guacamole, mash ripe avocados with chopped tomatillos, onions, garlic, and cilantro. Add lime juice and salt to taste. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos or burritos.
Chicken in Tomatillo Sauce Recipe
To make chicken in tomatillo sauce, sauté chicken breasts in a large skillet until browned on both sides. Remove from pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté chopped onions and garlic until softened. Add chopped tomatillos, chicken broth, and spices. Simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly. Return chicken to pan and simmer until cooked through. Serve with rice or tortillas.
Tomatillo Breakfast Tacos Recipe
To make tomatillo breakfast tacos, scramble eggs with chopped tomatillos, onions, and jalapenos. Serve in warm tortillas with shredded cheese, avocado, and cilantro.
Tomatillo Enchiladas Recipe
To make tomatillo enchiladas, grill or roast tomatillos until charred. Puree with chopped jalapenos, onions, and garlic. Spread the tomatillo sauce over tortillas filled with shredded chicken or cheese. Roll up and place in a baking dish. Top with additional tomatillo sauce and shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tomatillos
1. What are tomatillos?
Tomatillos are a type of fruit that are commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They are small, green, and have a papery husk on the outside.
2. How many calories are in 1 lb of tomatillos?
There are approximately 145 calories in 1 lb of tomatillos.
3. What are the benefits of eating tomatillos?
Tomatillos are a good source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and potassium. They are also low in calories and fat.
4. How do you prepare tomatillos for cooking?
To prepare tomatillos, remove the husks and rinse them under cold running water. Cut them into quarters or chop them into smaller pieces as needed for your recipe.
5. What are some recipes that use tomatillos?
Tomatillos are commonly used in salsa verde, a green sauce made with tomatillos, onions, garlic, and cilantro. They can also be used in soups, stews, and enchiladas.