If you’ve never had fried green tomatoes, you’re in for a treat! This Southern classic is the perfect balance of crispy, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Southern cooking or just looking for a delicious and unique appetizer, fried green tomatoes are sure to impress.
This dish originates from the Southern United States, where it has become a staple in comfort food cuisine. The tartness of the green tomatoes pairs beautifully with a crunchy cornmeal coating, resulting in a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. These crispy bites are perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a sandwich filling.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility. You can enjoy fried green tomatoes on their own with a dip, stack them on a BLT sandwich, or even top them with creamy pimento cheese for an extra indulgent treat. They’re easy to make and require just a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen!
Table of contents
Recipe Card
Fried Green Tomatoes
Cuisine: USADifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes15
minutes250
kcalThis easy fried green tomato recipe features tangy green tomatoes coated in a crispy cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients
3 medium green tomatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
- Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
- In another dish, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
- In a third dish, combine the cornmeal and breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each tomato slice in the flour mixture, then dip in the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with the cornmeal mixture.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the tomato slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Use unripe green tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk and a splash of vinegar if needed.
Why This Recipe Works
The Perfect Balance of Texture and Flavor
One of the best things about fried green tomatoes is their incredible contrast of textures. The tomatoes themselves are firm and slightly acidic, providing a fresh bite that is complemented by the crispy, golden-brown coating. Unlike ripe tomatoes, green tomatoes hold up well to frying, making them ideal for this dish.
The Secret to Crispy Perfection
The key to achieving that perfectly crispy crust lies in the coating. This recipe uses a combination of cornmeal and flour, which creates a light but crunchy texture. The cornmeal adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the crispiness, while the flour helps bind the coating to the tomato slices.
Customizable to Suit Your Taste
One of the best things about this fried green tomatoes recipe is how easily it can be customized:
- Spicy Version – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter for an extra kick.
- Extra Crunchy – Use panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional cornmeal for a crunchier bite.
- Gluten-Free – Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or cornstarch.
- Dairy-Free – Skip the buttermilk and use a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with a little vinegar.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, craving a nostalgic taste of the South, or just looking for a fun way to use up unripe tomatoes, this recipe fits the bill. Fried green tomatoes are a crowd-pleaser and can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even part of a main course.
Additional Tips for perfect Fried Green Tomatoes recipe
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C). If the oil is too hot, the tomatoes will burn; if it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Tomato Selection: Choose firm, unripe green tomatoes. They should be solid to the touch with no signs of ripening. This ensures they hold up well during frying and provide the desired tangy flavor.
- Double Coating: For an extra crispy texture, double coat the tomatoes. After the first round of dredging, dipping, and coating, repeat the process. This creates a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season the flour and cornmeal mixtures generously. Adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder can enhance the flavor.
- Resting Time: After coating the tomatoes, let them rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier finish.
- Batch Frying: Fry the tomatoes in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and can lead to uneven cooking.
- Drain Properly: Place the fried tomatoes on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels. This prevents them from becoming soggy as they cool.
- Keeping Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the fried tomatoes warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) while you finish frying the rest. This ensures they stay crispy until serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your fried green tomatoes with a variety of dipping sauces like remoulade, ranch, or even a spicy aioli. They also make a great addition to sandwiches or burgers.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Variants of the Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
While the classic fried green tomatoes are a Southern staple, there are plenty of variations to explore!
1. Spicy Cajun Fried Green Tomatoes
For a Louisiana-inspired twist, add Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture and a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk. Serve with a spicy remoulade sauce for dipping.
2. Parmesan-Crusted Fried Green Tomatoes
For extra flavor, mix grated Parmesan cheese into the cornmeal coating. The cheese adds a delicious umami taste and helps create an even crispier crust.
3. Panko-Crusted Fried Green Tomatoes
For an ultra-crispy bite, replace the cornmeal with panko breadcrumbs. The light and airy texture of panko makes for an incredibly crunchy coating.
4. Gluten-Free Fried Green Tomatoes
Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like almond flour, rice flour, or cornstarch. This keeps the crispy texture while making the dish accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
5. Air-Fried Green Tomatoes
If you want a healthier version, you can make fried green tomatoes in an air fryer. Simply spray the coated tomato slices with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Fried Green Tomato BLT
Take your classic BLT sandwich to the next level by replacing regular tomato slices with crispy fried green tomatoes. The crunch adds a whole new dimension to the sandwich.
7. Fried Green Tomato Caprese
Layer fried green tomatoes with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Southern twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp and Grits
Serve fried green tomatoes over a bed of creamy Southern grits, topped with sautéed shrimp for a decadent brunch dish.
Serving Bonus
No fried green tomatoes recipe is complete without a delicious dipping sauce. Try this easy and flavorful sauce to complement your dish:
Delicious dipping sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Serve alongside the fried green tomatoes.
Enjoy your delicious fried green tomatoes with this easy-to-make dipping sauce!
FAQ about the Fried Green Tomatoes
Use firm, unripe green tomatoes. They should be solid to the touch and not soft or red inside, as the firmness helps them hold up during frying.
To ensure the coating sticks, pat the tomato slices dry before dredging. Dip them in flour, then an egg wash, and finally the breadcrumb or cornmeal coating. Press the coating gently onto each slice, and let them rest for a few minutes before frying.
Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh to keep them crispy. However, if you need to make them in advance, keep them warm in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F) for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Fried green tomatoes are more than just a dish—they’re a piece of Southern tradition, a crispy and tangy delight that brings warmth to any table. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, an appetizer, or a creative addition to a sandwich, their unique flavor and crunchy coating make them an irresistible treat.
The beauty of fried green tomatoes lies in their simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can transform firm, unripe tomatoes into a golden, crispy delight. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can spice them up, make them gluten-free, or even try an air-fried version for a lighter take. No matter how you prepare them, one thing is certain: they’ll always be a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re looking for more delicious comfort food recipes, be sure to check out this Texas Trash recipe for a cheesy, crunchy snack or try this Cajun Alfredo Sauce recipe for a creamy, spicy twist on pasta night. And for another crispy, Southern-inspired dish, you might love this Fried Corn recipe—a perfect side to pair with your fried green tomatoes!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some green tomatoes, heat up the skillet, and enjoy this classic dish today!
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