This creamy tomatillo sauce is a fresh and zesty delight! Made with tomatillos, garlic, and a touch of sour cream, it’s perfect for tacos or as a dip.
I love how it adds a burst of flavor to anything! Plus, it’s super quick to whip up. You’ll be drizzling it on everything in no time—trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatillos: These little green gems are key for that unique, tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try subbing with green tomatoes or even ripe tomatoes, though the taste will differ somewhat.
Jalapeño: This adds a nice kick! Feel free to skip it if you want a milder sauce or replace it with a milder pepper like a poblano. You can also add more or less according to your heat preference.
Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: This provides creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative that still gives you a similar texture and flavor. If dairy is a concern, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free alternative.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro makes the flavor bright! If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, though it will change the flavor profile a bit.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Roasting Tomatillos?
Roasting tomatillos enhances their flavor, making it richer and more complex. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your broiler or skillet high enough to get a good char.
- Char the tomatillos for about 5-7 minutes, turning to get even grilling. Look for slightly wrinkled skin.
- Using a broiler can add a nice smokiness! Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
This step is critical as it brings out that delightful smokiness in your sauce!
How to Make Creamy Tomatillo Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded (optional, for mild heat)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup white onion, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 7 minutes for cooking. In total, the process takes about 22 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes roasting the tomatillos and blending everything into a deliciously creamy sauce. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Tomatillos:
Start by preheating your broiler or heating a skillet on medium-high heat. Place the tomatillos and jalapeño (if you’re using it) on a baking sheet or in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are lightly charred and softened. This roasting process adds a lovely depth of flavor!
2. Blend the Ingredients:
Once the tomatillos and jalapeño are ready, carefully transfer them into a blender. Add the garlic, cilantro, roughly chopped onion, cumin, and fresh lime juice. Blend everything until smooth, and make sure it’s well combined!
3. Make it Creamy:
Next, pour in the sour cream or Mexican crema into your blender. Pulse a few times until you achieve a creamy consistency. Taste your sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, transfer your creamy tomatillo sauce to a bowl. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for garnish. You can serve this sauce chilled or at room temperature, perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or as a tasty dip. Enjoy your fresh, zesty sauce!
Can I Use Green Tomatoes Instead of Tomatillos?
While tomatillos are best for their unique flavor, green tomatoes can be a decent substitute in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different—less tangy and more mild.
How Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
If you prefer extra heat, consider leaving some seeds in the jalapeño or adding more jalapeños. You can also mix in other hot peppers, like serranos, or finish the sauce with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I Make This Sauce Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the sour cream or Mexican crema with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or a vegan sour cream. This way, you can enjoy the creamy texture without any dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before using it again, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge!