Substituting tomatillos
I have lately come across good recipes, which happen to require tomatillos. Sadly, I don't have a source for tomatillos.
Is there some way to substitute them in recipes? Physalis berries? Underripe tomatoes? If tomatoes, then which kind?
Will it be a result similar to the original recipe, something definitely different, but usable, or so different that it only works by accident?
Best Answer
Under-ripe, green tomatoes that have a thick wall and medium pulp will work in many substitutions.
It will remain tart however the crispness of actual tomatillos will not be present. There is an almost citrusy effect to the taste of tomatillos that green tomatoes don't quite match. If this is a recipe requiring lime juice and cilantro, I might also add a bit of lemon juice or zest to account for the bitter, citrusy profile. If you are not using a recipe with lime you can probably get away without adding the lemon since I'm guessing the citrusy flavor isn't focal.
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Quick Answer about "Substituting tomatillos"
For a tomatillo substitute, buy underripe tomatoes and add a squeeze of lime juice. You will often see tomatillos in Mexican dishes like salsas, tacos, soups, and enchiladas. This swap might work well in a recipe like Slow Cooker Chicken Verde, Ceviche Verde, White Chili with Avocado Cream or Baja Fish Tacos.Can I use regular tomatoes instead of tomatillos?
Even underripe tomatoes will usually have a little extra sweetness than a tomatillo. This isn't usually a deal-breaker in most recipes. Although any tomato variety can be used, it's best to check their flavor before using them. If you get the choice, use a green tomato that has plenty of tartness.Can I substitute fresh tomatillos for canned?
If you can find only canned tomatillos, an 11-ounce can be substituted for 1 pound of fresh tomatillos in this week's recipes. The canned variety has already been simmered until softened, and all you have to do is drain them.Do tomatillos taste like green tomatoes?
Tomatillos have a slightly more acidic, slightly less sweet flavor than ripe and unripe tomatoes. Overall, the flavor is more vegetal and bright, and the interior texture is denser and less watery.What can I use instead of salsa verde?
What can I use as a substitute for salsa verde? To replace salsa verde in your next meal your best options are Pico de Gallo, red salsa, or salsa Ranchera. If you're after a more authentic taste then make your own salsa verde at home using fresh tomatillos as the main ingredient.4 Substitutes for Tomatillos You Will Not Regret Knowing Sooner
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Answer 2
i would think the flavor would be different, but they really are similar to small, underripe (green) tomatoes. i might be worth a shot to try those in a pinch, but canned is also a good option.
Answer 3
If you can't find fresh, I suspect you probably can't find canned locally, but the canned ones are a great convenience. In a green salsa mixed with fresh ingredients (cilantro, lime, jalapeno, etc.) I can't tell the difference between fresh and canned. You can order them online and have them shipped.
Answer 4
Tomatillos are super easy to grow, if you can grow tomatoes, you can grow these. I don't even have to plant them, they reseed every year and I pull out the ones I don't want.
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