pronounced [toh-MAH-tee-YO]
Botanical name: Physalis philadelphica. A relative of the tomato and member of the nightshade (Solanaceae) family tomatillos provide that tart flavor in a host of Mexican green sauces. In Mexico the fruit is called tomates verdes, tomates de cascara as well as fresadillas.
The fruits average about 1 -2" wide and have a papery outer skin. The tomatillo is actually used when it is still green. Tomatillos have a very tart flavor, not at all like a tomato.