Tomatillo Sauce

by | Jan 17, 2017 | Recipes, Uncategorized

Tomatillo (also called husk tomato, Jamberry, Husk cherry, Mexican tomato, or Ground cherry)

Originating in Mexico, the Tomatillo looks like a small green tomato in size, shape and appearance and has a thin parchment-like covering (the jacket) which should be removed before eating or cooking. When buying Tomatillos make sure the jacket is not dry or shriveled. Canned Tomatillos are also available but fresh is best.

Tip: Ripe Tomatillos are pale greenish-yellow to light yellow in color, and can be eaten raw (after peeling away the outer jacket). They have a nice tangy-fruity flavor and taste.

Tip2: If you grow Tomatillos in your garden, then two or more plants are needed for proper pollination otherwise it will not bear fruit.

Tip3: To store tomatillos, remove outer jacket and place the fruit in sealed plastic bags and store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition: A Tomatillo is a dieter’s delight. A Tomatillo contains only 11 calories, yet it packs 91 mg of potassium, 4 mg of vitamin C, 2.4 mg of calcium, 2.38 mg of folic acid, and 39 IU of vitamin A.

Turkey on Pita Bread with Tomatillo Sauce
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients Sauce

  • 1/2 pound (with husks) tomatillos
  • 1 garlic clove, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Ingredients Pitas

  • 1 large pita or 2 smaller ones
  • 8 ounces sliced cooked turkey breast
  • 2 roasted red peppers from a jar, patted dry and slit open into single layer
  • 4 ounces sliced cheese
  • Fresh cilantro

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350F.

Sauce: Remove the husks (jackets) from the tomatillos, wash, cut into quarters and transfer to blender or the “chopping cup” of an immersion blender.
Add the garlic and jalapeno.
Process until the tomatillos is evenly chopped but not liquid, add salt and pepper.
Cook the puree until thick (about 4 minutes).

Pitas: Open the pita and place on a baking sheet, smooth side down. Spread the sauce over top, and arrange the turkey, peppers and cheese on top. Bake in the oven for approx. 10 to 15 minutes or the cheese is melted and the Turkey is cooked. Top with fresh cilantro, slice and serve.

NUTRITION ESTIMATE Weight Calories
Per Serving 4 ounces 227
Protein 24 g 99.8
Total Fat 9 g 86.2
Saturated Fat 4 g
Cholesterol 60 mg
Carbohydrates 10 g 40.8
Fiber 1 g
Calcium 241 mg
Iron 1 mg
Sodium 465 mg
Weight Watchers Points 5