Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern dish that offers a delightful combination of tangy and crispy flavors. This easy fried green tomatoes recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or a side dish that will impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe for fried green tomatoes is simple to follow and yields delicious results every time.
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.
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.
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.
This fried green tomato recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a Southern classic. With its crispy coating and tangy flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a side dish, these fried green tomatoes are a crowd-pleaser.
For more recipes like this one check our section about United States cuisine.
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