Tomatillo green sauce is a vibrant condiment that offers a delightful tang and burst of flavor, perfect for bringing any meal to life. With the unique tartness of tomatillos and a hint of spice from jalapeños, this sauce can elevate anything from tortilla chips to your favorite tacos. It’s quick to prepare and makes a refreshing addition to your dining table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 55
Protein: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 50 mg

Why Make This Tomatillo Green Sauce

Making tomatillo green sauce at home allows you to customize flavors to suit your taste. It’s fresh, quick, and offers a delicious alternative to store-bought sauces. Plus, it’s a great way to use tomatillos, which are often overlooked. The tangy and spicy combination enhances everything from simple chips to hefty tacos, making it a versatile ingredient that’s always a hit.

How to Make Tomatillo Green Sauce

Ingredients:

6 tomatillos
2 jalapeños
1 onion
1 cup cilantro (fresh)
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Remove the husk from the tomatillos and rinse them under cold water to remove any stickiness. This step is crucial to ensure a clean flavor in your sauce.
Step 2: Cooking

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the tomatillos and jalapeños, cooking them for about 10 minutes until they soften. You’ll know they are ready when they turn a deeper green and their skins start to split.
Step 3: Blending

Drain the cooked tomatillos and jalapeños, then transfer them to a blender. Add the chopped onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and salt to the blender.
Step 4: Finishing

Blend the ingredients on high until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lime juice as desired. Once you have your preferred flavor, your tomatillo green sauce is ready to serve!

How to Serve Tomatillo Green Sauce

Serve tomatillo green sauce with crispy tortilla chips for an irresistible snack, or use it as a zesty topping for tacos, grilled meats, or fish. You can also drizzle it over quesadillas or use it as a dressing for salads, adding a fresh twist to your meals.

How to Store Tomatillo Green Sauce

Store any leftover tomatillo green sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in ice cube trays, then transferring the cubes to a freezer bag for later use.

Expert Tips for Perfect Tomatillo Green Sauce

Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a milder sauce, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before boiling.
Freshness is Key: Use fresh tomatillos and cilantro for the best flavor. Avoid using wilted herbs as they can affect the taste.
Add a Twist: Consider adding a clove of garlic or a splash of vinegar to enhance the depth of flavor.

Delicious Variations

Add Avocado: Blend in half an avocado for a creamier, richer sauce.
Roasted Version: Instead of boiling, roast the tomatillos and jalapeños for a smokier flavor.
Herb Alternatives: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for unique variations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge.
What can I substitute for tomatillos?
If you can’t find tomatillos, green tomatoes or a mix of green bell peppers and a little vinegar can work as substitutes, though the flavor will differ.
Is this sauce spicy?
The heat level depends on the type and amount of jalapeños used. For less heat, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Dried cilantro will not provide the same fresh flavor and fragrance, so it’s best to stick with fresh cilantro for this sauce.
How can I tell when the tomatillos are ripe?
Look for tomatillos that are firm and have a bright green color. Avoid any that feel soft or have brown spots.

Conclusion

Tomatillo green sauce is a delightful and simple condiment that adds zest and flavor to a range of dishes. Whether you’re dipping chips or topping tacos, its refreshing taste makes every bite a joy. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of making this vibrant sauce from scratch. You’ll find it’s a versatile addition that’s sure to impress your family and friends!