When eaten raw, tomatillos have a unique flavor profile that is both tart and bright. The taste is often described as tangy and slightly acidic, with a hint of citrus. The tartness of the tomatillo is what sets it apart from other fruits and vegetables. It is not overly sweet, but instead has a refreshing and almost zesty quality to it.
The texture of raw tomatillos is firm and slightly crunchy, similar to a firm tomato. When you bite into a raw tomatillo, you can feel the juiciness and the slight burst of tartness on your taste buds. The skin is thin and smooth, which adds a pleasant texture to the overall eating experience.
One way to enjoy raw tomatillos is by adding them to salads. Their bright and tangy flavor can add a refreshing element to a mixed green salad or a salsa. I remember one time when I decided to make a tomatillo and avocado salad. I simply sliced the raw tomatillos and combined them with sliced avocado, red onion, and cilantro. The combination of the tart tomatillos and creamy avocado was absolutely delicious.
Another way to enjoy raw tomatillos is by blending them into a salsa or sauce. Their tartness adds a unique element to salsa verde, a popular Mexican condiment. I love making a homemade salsa verde by blending raw tomatillos with jalapenos, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. The result is a tangy and vibrant salsa that pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or even as a dip for tortilla chips.
Raw tomatillos have a tart, bright, and slightly citrusy flavor. Their firm and crunchy texture adds a pleasant element to salads and salsas. Whether you choose to slice them and add them to a salad or blend them into a salsa, raw tomatillos offer a unique and refreshing taste that is worth exploring in your culinary adventures.