Tomatillos are a staple ingredient in many Mexican and Southwestern dishes. However, there is some debate over the proper way to store them. Should fresh tomatillos be kept in the refrigerator or left on the counter? Here is a look at the pros and cons of each approach.
Quick Answer
The quick answer is that whole, raw tomatillos can be stored either in the fridge or on the counter. Refrigeration will prolong their shelf life for up to 2-3 weeks. Countertop storage at room temperature will keep them fresh for about 1 week. Once tomatillos are cut open or cooked, they should be refrigerated.
Storing Tomatillos in the Fridge
There are a few benefits to storing fresh, uncooked tomatillos in the refrigerator:
- Prolonged shelf life – Fridge temperatures between 34°F-40°F will keep tomatillos fresh and usable for 2-3 weeks. The chill helps slow their metabolism and maturation process.
- Retained firmness – Refrigeration keeps tomatillos crisp and firm compared to countertop storage.
- Slowed spoilage – The cold environment inhibits mold growth and bacterial spoilage that causes shriveling.
- Maintained color – Fridge storage prevents overripening that can cause dull, brown spots.
To store tomatillos in the fridge:
- Leave them in their husks, as the husk protects them and prevents moisture loss.
- Place them in a perforated plastic bag in your refrigerator’s vegetable drawer.
- Wash them just before use, then peel off the papery husk.
- Use within 2-3 weeks for best quality and flavor.
Storing Tomatillos on the Counter
Keeping fresh tomatillos at room temperature on your kitchen counter also has some advantages:
- Better flavor – Countertop storage allows tomatillos to continue to ripen and develop sugars.
- Easy access – Keeping tomatillos on the counter makes them readily available to grab for recipes.
- Natural ripening – They will become softer and change color as they ripen.
- Lesswaste – No need to store extras in the fridge that may spoil.
To store tomatillos on the counter:
- Leave them in the husk at room temperature out of direct sunlight.
- Place them in a single layer spread out in a fruit bowl or basket.
- Use within about 1 week for peak flavor and texture.
- Check frequently for spoilage and discard any with mold.
How to Tell if Tomatillos are Bad
Here are some signs that tomatillos have gone bad and should be discarded:
- Moldy or shriveled appearance
- Soft or mushy feeling
- Brown or black spots on the husk or fruit
- Off smell, especially if rotten or fermented
- Discolored interior when husk is removed
- Very sticky, dry or stained exteriors
- Taste that is sour, bitter, or very bland
As long as the tomatillo feels firm and does not appear spoiled, it should still be fine to use even if the husk has browned or darkened over time.
Storing Cut Tomatillos
Once tomatillos are peeled and cut open, they should always be refrigerated. The moisture loss that occurs when the interior is exposed to air will cause them to spoil rapidly at room temperature. To store:
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap directly touching the surface.
- Place in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Use within 3-5 days.
For maximum freshness, peel and slice tomatillos just before adding them to a recipe.
Freezing Tomatillos
Tomatillos can also be frozen to extend their shelf life even further. To freeze:
- Remove husks and wash.
- Cut in half or dice if desired.
- Spread in single layer on baking sheet to freeze initially.
- Transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers once frozen.
- Use within about 8-12 months for best quality.
Tomatillos will likely become mushy when thawed but can still be used for salsa, sauces, or soups. Blend or puree thawed tomatillos to help break down cell walls.
How to Ripen Tomatillos
Green, underripe tomatillos can be ripened fully at home with a few simple tricks:
- Paper bag method – Place hard green tomatillos in a paper bag folded over at the top and let sit at room temperature for 2-4 days.
- Fruit bowl ripening – Keep hard tomatillos out on the counter with other fruit, which emits ethylene gas that accelerates ripening.
- Window sill ripening – Set green tomatillos on a sunny window sill to ripen for 1-2 weeks.
Check frequently and remove any tomatillos that appear to be spoiled or moldy. Once tomatillos turn yellow-green and feel slightly soft, they are ripe and ready to eat.
How to Store Ripe Tomatillos
Once tomatillos are ripe, you can store them:
- At room temperature for 2-3 days.
- In the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
- In the freezer for 8-12 months.
Ripe tomatillos should be used quickly at their peak flavor and texture. Refrigerate ripe tomatillos if you won’t be using them right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you store tomatillos in the fridge?
Yes, refrigeration can prolong the shelf life of fresh tomatillos for 2-3 weeks when stored in their husks in the vegetable drawer.
Do tomatillos go bad on the counter?
Tomatillos left on the counter at room temperature will stay fresh for about 1 week before going bad. Refrigerate any extras you won’t use right away.
How long do tomatillos last in the fridge?
Whole fresh tomatillos in their husks will generally last 2-3 weeks when properly stored in the refrigerator.
Should tomatillos be refrigerated?
It is recommended but not required to refrigerate whole tomatillos for longest shelf life. Countertop storage works for shorter term storage.
Can you freeze tomatillos?
Yes, tomatillos can be frozen either whole or diced. Frozen tomatillos will become softened when thawed but can still be used in cooked preparations.
What do bad tomatillos look like?
Signs tomatillos have gone bad include mold, mushy texture, brown spots, off smell, shriveling, sticky exteriors, and unusual tastes.
Should I wash tomatillos before storing?
No, you should store fresh tomatillos in their husks without washing. Only wash right before you are ready to use them.
Summary
In summary, tomatillos can be stored either in the refrigerator or at room temperature:
- Refrigerate for 2-3 weeks shelf life.
- Store on counter for 1 week shelf life.
- Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3-5 days.
- Discard any tomatillos that appear moldy or spoiled.
- For maximum freshness, refrigerate ripe tomatillos and use within 1-2 weeks.
With proper storage, tomatillos will retain their signature tart, tangy flavor and crisp texture to enrich salsas, sauces, stews and other delicious dishes.