Tomatillos

[Georgie]

My Tomatillos were very slow to get going but in the last few weeks they have become covered in large green 'lanterns'.  The problem is there is no sign of them turning papery so I assume they are not ripe although the fruits inside are a decent size. 

I've never grown them before so I'd like to know your thoughts on whether I can use them slightly under ripe because it won't be long now until the first frost here.

G x

[Georgie]

[Melbourne12]

We grew them last year with great success, and have a few self seeded ones this year which are only just ripening.  Last year it was 4 weeks earlier.

I'd be inclined to pick them now (which is what we've done) even if they're not fully ripe.  The fruits are quite firm even when ripe.  Pictures here which may help:

http://johnnorman.wordpress.com/2010/09/20/tomatillos-and-salsa-verde/

[realfood]

If the lanterns are reasonably well filled, you can take them in before the frost and they will tend to ripen on a sunny windowsill. There is more information on storing here :- http://www.growyourown.info/page172.html
I found that some of mine last year were still in perfect condition in a bowl in a sunny window, 9 months after harvesting! Not even wrinkled!! The waxy coating is so effective at preventing water loss.

[Georgie]

Thank you both for this really helpful advice.  I'll bring them in tomorrow I think.   :)

G x

[antipodes]

Make sure they are quite ripe (orange) before eating them, Unripe ones are not good for you.

[Georgie]

Make sure they are quite ripe (orange) before eating them, Unripe ones are not good for you.

I pretty certain that this type don't turn orange.  They are the ones that are used to make salsa verde.   ???

G x

[realfood]

As far as I know they do not turn orange. In any case, the Mexicans use them green as Salsa Verde.

[antipodes]

As far as I know they do not turn orange. In any case, the Mexicans use them green as Salsa Verde.

Sorry I may have been mistaking them for cape gooseberries.

[Georgie]

As far as I know they do not turn orange. In any case, the Mexicans use them green as Salsa Verde.

Sorry I may have been mistaking them for cape gooseberries.

Ah yes, Physallis, I grow those too and I've also heard that they must be ripe (orange) before you eat them.  Confusing eh?

G x

[George the Pigman]

Just harvested mine last week but they are moderately frost hardy. I just use them whatever the size.
Just finished making a cracking Tomatillo chutney see recipe http://naturenet.net/blogs/index.php/2009/08/29/show_me_the_way_to_tomatillo_chutney
I use them in stir fries and roast them as well.

This year I sowed the seed in the greenhouse only to find a dozen had sprung up on the allotment from tomatillos that had rotted into the ground last year!