About Tomatillo
Tomatillo, tomato and cape gooseberry belong to the nightshade family. This perennial herb originated in Mexico and is commonly used as a primary ingredient in salsas. Its size and colour vary according to the specific variety, some of which we have planted ourselves, including the purple and green heirloom varieties. Regrettably, the purple variety could not retain its colour beyond the F2 generation.
Growing Tomatillo
Tomatillo provides both ornamental and practical benefits to gardens. After planting our tomatillo seeds five years ago, we found they flourish in garden beds and potted plants. Potted plants fare better during dry summers, as regulating soil moisture in confined spaces is easier. Tomatillos are considered more disease-resistant, drought-resistant and frost-tolerant than tomatoes.
Even without crop rotation and minimal maintenance, they continue to thrive and seem resistant to Tuta absoluta, a significant threat to growing tomatoes. Growing tomatillos is especially important in cases where crop rotation or leaving land fallow is not feasible. Despite harsh conditions, tomatillo has survived severe drought and frost years, producing smaller-sized fruits. The fruit size increases once ideal conditions are restored. We water our plants once weekly and add compost to the soil three times annually.
Using Tomatillo
Tomatillo boasts a higher nutritional value than tomatoes due to its high fibre and vitamin content, including C, A, B, potassium, and other trace elements. They are typically harvested and stored with their husks for an extended shelf life. Tomatillo maintains a firmer texture and higher acidity than the tomato. They are commonly used in Salsa Verde, salad dressings and pickled recipes. It can also be used in recipes as a replacement for tomato, but some sugar may be required to counteract its acidity. Similarly, tomatoes can substitute for tomatillo in Salsa Verde.
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