Tomatillo 'De Milpa' (Purple)

De Milpa Purple Tomatillos are a unique and visually striking variety of tomatillos (Physalis philadelphica) that stand out for their distinctive color and versatile culinary applications. Unlike traditional green tomatillos, De Milpa Purple tomatillos showcase a vibrant, deep purple hue when fully ripe. The small, round fruits are encased in a papery husk, a characteristic common to tomatillos, and they often grow in clusters along the branches of the plant. This heirloom variety not only adds a splash of color to the garden but also offers a rich, sweet-tart flavor profile that sets it apart from its green counterparts.
In the kitchen, De Milpa Purple tomatillos can be used in a variety of culinary creations. They are a key ingredient in traditional Mexican cuisine, particularly in the preparation of salsa verde, where their unique color adds an enticing twist to the classic green salsa. The tomatillos can be used raw in salads or salsa, providing a burst of color and a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. Alternatively, they can be cooked down into sauces, stews, or jams, where their natural sugars intensify, creating a delightful balance between sweetness and acidity.
Cultivating De Milpa Purple tomatillos requires providing them with suitable growing conditions. These plants thrive in warm climates with full sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering. With proper care, gardeners can enjoy not only the aesthetic appeal of the striking purple fruits but also the culinary versatility that De Milpa Purple tomatillos bring to a variety of dishes, adding both visual interest and unique flavor to the garden and the table.

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Purple tomatillos, including the De Milpa Purple variety, share growing conditions similar to their green counterparts. Here are the key factors to consider when cultivating purple tomatillos:

1. Sunlight: Purple tomatillos thrive in full sunlight. Plant them in an area that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ample sunlight is essential for robust plant growth and fruit development.
   
2. Temperature: Tomatillos are warm-season plants. Wait until after the last frost in your region to plant them. Purple tomatillos prefer temperatures between 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 32 degrees Celsius) for optimal growth. Protect them from cold temperatures, as they are sensitive to frost.
   
3. Soil: Provide well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). Incorporate organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and water retention. Good soil drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
   
4. Watering: Tomatillos require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can reduce the risk of diseases.
   
5. Spacing: When planting purple tomatillos, ensure proper spacing to allow for good air circulation between the plants. This helps prevent diseases and ensures that each plant receives sufficient sunlight. Typically, spacing them about 24 to 36 inches apart is recommended.
   
6. Support: Tomatillo plants can become sprawling, especially as they produce fruit. Providing support, such as staking or using tomato cages, helps keep the plants upright and the fruit off the ground.
   
7. Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer or one formulated for vegetables. Apply fertilizer according to the recommended rates, typically before planting and during the growing season. Tomatillos benefit from nutrient-rich soil to support healthy growth and fruit production.
   
8. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also protects the shallow roots of tomatillo plants.
   

By providing these optimal growing conditions, you can cultivate healthy and productive purple tomatillo plants, including varieties like De Milpa Purple. With proper care, you'll enjoy a bountiful harvest of these unique and visually striking fruits for various culinary applications.

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Purple Tomatillo and Avocado Gazpacho.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup purple tomatillos, husked and washed
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and diced
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 cups vegetable broth, chilled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and extra cilantro

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatillos:
   
   • Remove the husks from the purple tomatillos and wash them thoroughly. Cut them into quarters or halves.
2. Blend Ingredients:
   
   • In a blender, combine the purple tomatillos, diced avocados, cucumber, red onion, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Chill:
   
   • Transfer the blended mixture to a large bowl. Stir in the chilled vegetable broth. Season the gazpacho with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve:
   
   • Ladle the Purple Tomatillo and Avocado Gazpacho into bowls. Garnish with additional diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh cilantro if desired.
5. Enjoy:
   
   • Serve the gazpacho cold as a refreshing and vibrant soup, perfect for a light summer meal or appetizer. The combination of the purple tomatillos and creamy avocado creates a visually stunning dish with a delightful flavor profile.

This Purple Tomatillo and Avocado Gazpacho offer a unique twist on the classic cold soup. The purple tomatillos contribute a tangy and slightly sweet element, while the avocado adds creaminess. Feel free to adjust the consistency with more or less vegetable broth and customize the garnishes to suit your taste. Enjoy this refreshing and colorful gazpacho!