Tomatillo 'Plaza Latina Giant' organic
identification
description
Organic Tomatillo 'Plaza Latina Giant' (Physalis philadelphica) from the seed company Gaia, a giant and long-keeping variety
Tomatillo 'Plaza Latina Giant' is an impressive heirloom variety , producing fruits measuring 3 inches (7-8 cm) in diameter , the largest we have grown. Although these fruits require an extra month to reach full maturity , their generous size makes for a quick and abundant harvest. Unlike other varieties, they remain on the plant until hand-harvested , turning a yellow-green hue when ripe. Their long shelf life makes them an ideal choice for culinary preparations throughout the year .
Spread: bushy and robust habit
Plant height: 90 to 120 cm
Quantity per pack: ± 20 seeds
Companion plants: basil, coriander, garlic, marigold, yarrow, borage, onions, parsley
Enemy plants: corn, dill, potatoes, eggplants
Cultivation method:
Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost , then transplant them outdoors in late spring when the soil is well warmed. Plant 1/4 to 1/2" (6 to 12 mm) deep , spacing plants 18-24" (45 to 60 cm) apart and rows 36-48" (90 to 120 cm) apart . Germination takes 15 to 20 days at an optimum temperature of 70°F ( 21°C) . This variety prefers full sun , well-drained soil , and requires an extra month of maturation compared to regular tomatillos.
Harvest and uses:
Harvest when the husks turn brown and begin to split . Their large size and firm flesh make these tomatillos ideal for stews, thick sauces, and preserves . Their long shelf life means they can be used for several weeks after harvest.
Recipe: 'Plaza Latina Giant' Tomatillo Sauce with Spices and Orange ????
A creamy and fragrant sauce, perfect to accompany roast meats, pulled pork or even grilled vegetables .
Ingredients (for 4 servings):
- 500g 'Plaza Latina Giant' tomatillos , quartered
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (or 1 rehydrated dried pepper)
- 1/2 red onion , chopped
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- The juice and zest of 1 organic orange
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Preparation :
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes, until translucent.
- Add the tomatillos, chipotle pepper, cumin and ground coriander , then cook over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes , until softened.
- Stir in the orange juice and zest , honey, salt and pepper, then simmer for another 5 minutes .
- Blend the sauce until smooth and uniform.
- Add fresh coriander before serving for a touch of freshness.
? Serve this sauce hot or cold , perfect with pulled pork, tacos, roast chicken or even grilled fish .
?? Tip : For a creamier version, add a spoonful of crème fraîche or coconut milk before mixing!
Why choose it?
The Tomatillo 'Plaza Latina Giant' is ideal for gardeners looking for XXL fruits , both easy to harvest and store . Its balanced flavor and firm flesh make it a perfect variety for rich sauces and stews .
With its imposing size, delicious flavor and long shelf life , the Tomatillo 'Plaza Latina Giant' is a must-have for lovers of home cooking and productive vegetable gardens! ??
