How many carbs does a tomatillo have? A Low-Calorie Guide to This Versatile Ingredient

November 11, 2025 •

2 min read

According to the USDA, a 100-gram serving of raw tomatillos contains just 5.84 grams of total carbohydrates, making them an excellent low-carb option for various diet plans. Understanding how many carbs does a tomatillo have can help you incorporate this tangy, flavorful ingredient into your meals without compromising your health goals.

Quick Summary

Tomatillos are low-calorie, low-carb fruits that are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. Their nutritional profile makes them a suitable addition for a healthy, balanced diet, including keto and weight management plans. They can be prepared in many ways, from fresh salsa to roasted side dishes.

Key Points

Low in Carbs: A 100-gram serving of raw tomatillos contains approximately 5.84 grams of total carbohydrates.
High in Fiber: Nearly 33% of the total carbohydrates in tomatillos come from dietary fiber, beneficial for digestion and satiety.
Supports Weight Management: Their low calorie density (32 kcal per 100g) makes them ideal for weight-loss diets.
Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatillos contain phytochemicals like withanolides and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and other health-promoting properties.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: They are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants that support vision.
Versatile Ingredient: Suitable for a variety of dishes including salsa, roasted sides, soups, and salads.
Keto-Friendly: The low net carb count (approx. 3.9g per 100g) makes them a great addition to ketogenic diet meal plans.

Tomatillo Carbohydrates: A Closer Look

Tomatillos have a distinct nutritional profile compared to tomatoes, particularly in their carbohydrate content. The total carb content is low, with a significant amount being dietary fiber. This fiber is beneficial for digestion and contributes to a lower net carb count.

Raw Tomatillo Nutrition Per 100g

A 100-gram serving of raw tomatillos provides valuable nutrients while keeping carbs in check.

Macronutrients:

Total Carbohydrates: Around 5.84 grams.
Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1.9 grams, making up about 32.5% of total carbs.
Net Carbs: Approximately 3.9 grams (Total Carbs - Dietary Fiber).
Calories: Roughly 32 calories.

Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatillos are a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin K, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, supporting immune function, blood pressure, bone health, and vision.

Raw Tomatillos vs. Cooked Tomatillos

Cooking can slightly impact the nutritional value of tomatillos, though the macronutrient profile generally remains consistent. Roasting may result in a sweeter flavor due to sugar caramelization, but this does not significantly alter the carb count. Be mindful of added ingredients when cooking, as they can increase the total carb content of the final dish.

Incorporating Tomatillos into Your Diet

Tomatillos are a versatile ingredient with a tangy, acidic flavor that works well in various dishes, including sauces, salsas, and dressings. Popular uses include salsa verde, adding finely chopped raw tomatillos to salads, roasting them as a side dish, or simmering them in soups and stews.

Comparison: Tomatillos vs. Tomatoes

Despite their similar appearance, tomatillos and tomatoes have different flavors and nutritional profiles. The table below highlights some key differences:


Feature	Tomatillo (per 100g)	Tomato (per 100g, approx.)
Total Carbs	5.84g	~3.9g
Dietary Fiber	1.9g	~1.2g
Net Carbs	~3.9g	~2.7g
Calories	32 kcal	~18 kcal
Primary Flavor	Tangy, acidic	Sweet, mild
Main Use	Salsa verde, stews	Sauces, salads
Antioxidants	Withanolides, lutein	Lycopene, Vitamin A
Overall Comparison	Slightly higher in fiber and carbs than tomatoes, richer in certain vitamins.	Lower in calories and carbs, higher in Vitamin A.

Conclusion

Tomatillos are a flavorful and healthy choice for those managing carbohydrate intake. With approximately 5.84 grams of total carbs and 1.9 grams of fiber per 100-gram serving, they can be included in various diet plans, including low-carb and keto diets. Their tangy taste and nutrient density make them a valuable addition to numerous recipes, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, tomatillos are considered keto-friendly. A 100-gram serving contains only about 3.9 grams of net carbs, making them an excellent choice for a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Tomatillos have slightly more total carbohydrates and dietary fiber than red tomatoes. Per 100g, tomatillos have around 5.84g of carbs, while tomatoes have approximately 3.9g.

The carb content of tomatillos does not significantly change when cooked. While cooking can alter the fruit's texture and flavor by caramelizing sugars, the overall macronutrient profile remains consistent.

The carbohydrate content of salsa verde is primarily determined by the tomatillos. A homemade salsa made with just tomatillos, onions, and peppers will be low in carbs, but the exact amount depends on the recipe and portion size. Always check the ingredients for any added sugars.

Yes, their low net carb count and high fiber content make them a perfect addition to a low-carb diet. Tomatillos can add a tangy flavor to many dishes without significantly increasing your carb intake.

Yes, tomatillos contain natural sugars. In a 100-gram serving of raw tomatillos, there are approximately 3.93 grams of sugar.

Tomatillos are a good source of dietary fiber, with about 1.9 grams per 100g. Fiber is essential for promoting healthy digestion and alleviating issues like constipation.