The Best Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: Crispy Southern Delight

Southern kitchens buzz with excitement over this delectable fried green tomatoes recipe that captures pure culinary magic.

Unripe tomatoes become crispy, golden delights through a simple yet transformative cooking technique.

Firm, slightly tart green tomatoes get coated in a perfectly seasoned cornmeal breading that delivers incredible crunch.

Skilled cooks know the secret lies in selecting the right tomatoes and maintaining precise oil temperature.

Southerners have perfected this dish as a beloved summer staple that celebrates fresh produce.

Each bite promises a delightful contrast between the tangy interior and the satisfyingly crisp exterior.

Dare you to experience this irresistible southern classic that will instantly become your new favorite appetizer or side dish?

Variations On Fried Green Tomatoes

• Gluten-Free Green Tomatoes: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free cornmeal for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Herb-Infused Green Tomatoes: Add dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the cornmeal-flour mixture for enhanced herbal flavor and aromatic complexity.
• Vegan Green Tomatoes: Substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk and use ground flaxseed mixed with water instead of egg for binding.
• Air Fryer Version: Cook tomato slices in air fryer at 390°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, to reduce oil and create crispy texture with less fat.

What To Serve With Fried Green Tomatoes

• Southern Picnic Platter: Arrange fried green tomatoes on a rustic wooden board with crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, and a zesty remoulade sauce for a classic Southern-style appetizer.
• Brunch Sensation: Top the tomatoes with a soft poached egg and sprinkle with chives, creating a delightful breakfast dish that combines crunch and creamy textures.
• Salad Topper Delight: Slice the fried green tomatoes and place them over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with buttermilk ranch dressing for a satisfying, hearty salad with a crispy twist.
• Sandwich Upgrade: Layer the golden-brown tomato slices between toasted sourdough bread with crisp lettuce and tangy pimento cheese for an irresistible Southern-inspired sandwich.

Best Storage For Fried Green Tomatoes

• Store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain crispiness.
• Reheat in the oven at 375°F for best results, spreading slices on a baking sheet.
• Crisp up in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, turning halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

• What are green tomatoes?

Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that are firm and have a tart, slightly sour flavor. They are harvested before they turn red and are commonly used in Southern United States cuisine.

• Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?

No, ripe tomatoes are too soft and will not hold up during frying. Green tomatoes have a firmer texture that allows them to maintain their shape and crispy coating when fried.

• How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature for frying?

Use a cooking thermometer to check that the oil is around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of breading into the oil – if it sizzles and rises to the top immediately, the oil is ready.

What Makes Fried Green Tomatoes A Classic

• Savor Southern Comfort: Dive into a classic Southern dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, perfect for those craving a taste of traditional cuisine.
• Master Simple Cooking Techniques: Learn an easy method of coating and frying that transforms simple green tomatoes into a crispy, golden delicacy with just a few ingredients.
• Impress with Minimal Effort: Create a restaurant-quality appetizer or side dish that looks and tastes sophisticated but requires minimal cooking skills and basic kitchen tools.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Enjoy a recipe that works brilliantly as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, side dish, or even a main course that appeals to both kids and adults with its crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Ingredients Needed For Fried Green Tomatoes

• Green Tomatoes: Firm, unripe tomatoes that provide a tangy flavor and sturdy texture for frying.

• Buttermilk, Egg: A smooth mixture that helps the dry coating adhere to the tomato slices and creates a rich, tangy base.

• Cornmeal, All-Purpose Flour, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper: A seasoned blend that creates a crispy, golden-brown crust with a subtle kick of heat.

• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil used for frying that helps achieve a crisp and evenly cooked exterior.

• Paper Towels: Used for draining excess oil and ensuring a crisp texture.

How To Make Fried Green Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare Tomato Slices

Wash green tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Make sure the slices are even to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 2: Create Buttermilk Dip

In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg until well combined. This wet mixture will help the coating stick to the tomato slices.

Step 3: Mix Crispy Coating

• Cornmeal
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper

Combine all dry ingredients until evenly mixed, creating a flavorful and crunchy coating.

Step 4: Coat Tomato Slices

Dunk each tomato slice first into the buttermilk-egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage.

Then immediately transfer to the cornmeal-flour mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides with the dry mixture.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place coated tomato slices into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crispy exterior.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove fried tomatoes using a slotted spatula and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Optional: Sprinkle with additional salt or serve with a zesty dipping sauce.

Tips To Get Fried Green Tomatoes Just Right

• Opt for firm, unripe green tomatoes to ensure crispy, sturdy slices that hold their shape during frying.
• Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels before dipping to help the coating adhere better and create a crunchier texture.
• Maintain consistent oil temperature around 350°F for even golden-brown coloring without burning the coating.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cornmeal mixture for an extra flavor boost that complements the tangy tomatoes.
• Let fried tomatoes rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent soggy bottoms and maintain maximum crispiness.

Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern comfort classic Fried Green Tomatoes deliver crispy, tangy perfection from unripe tomatoes. Cornmeal coating and buttermilk create a golden crunch you’ll savor with Southern pride.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 large green tomatoes
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

Coating and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Cooking Ingredient:

• Vegetable oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Cut green tomatoes into uniform, crisp rounds approximately 1/4-inch thick for consistent cooking and texture.
2. Create a smooth wet coating by whisking buttermilk and egg until thoroughly blended and creamy.
3. Prepare a seasoned dry mixture by combining cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for a robust flavor profile.
4. Dredge each tomato slice first in the buttermilk-egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage, then coat generously with the cornmeal-flour blend.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F, maintaining a steady medium temperature for optimal frying.
6. Carefully place coated tomato slices into hot oil, cooking each batch for 3-4 minutes per side until achieving a rich golden-brown crust.
7. Transfer fried tomatoes onto paper towel-lined plates to absorb excess oil and preserve crispiness.
8. Serve immediately while warm to maintain peak crunchiness and enjoy the vibrant, tangy flavor of southern-style green tomatoes.

Notes

• Choose firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best texture and tangy flavor that holds up during frying.
• Pat tomato slices completely dry before coating to ensure a crispy, even breading that sticks perfectly.
• Maintain consistent oil temperature around 350°F to prevent soggy or burnt exterior while achieving a golden-brown crust.
• Experiment with spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper or adding smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick that elevates the classic Southern dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg