Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with tangy flavor. This dish is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Here’s how to make the ultimate fried green tomatoes in a few simple steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delicious batch of fried green tomatoes:
- 4 large green tomatoes (firm and slightly tart)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
How to Make Fried Green Tomatoes
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect fried green tomatoes.
# Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Wash the green tomatoes thoroughly.
- Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds for even cooking.
- Lightly sprinkle salt on both sides of each slice and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
# Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- In a second dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Place the cornmeal in a third dish.
# Step 3: Bread the Tomatoes
- Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Submerge it in the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Press it into the cornmeal, ensuring a full, even coating.
Pro Tip: Use one hand for wet ingredients and the other for dry ingredients to keep things tidy.
# Step 4: Fry the Tomatoes
- Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it sizzles when a crumb of breading is dropped in.
- Carefully place the breaded tomato slices into the hot oil, leaving space between them.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your fried green tomatoes with a side of remoulade sauce or spicy ranch dip for an extra kick.
- Pair them with fried chicken or collard greens for a Southern-style feast.
Pro Tip: For a gourmet twist, use fried green tomatoes as a base for a unique BLT sandwich or as a topping for burgers.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Final Thoughts
Fried green tomatoes are a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these crispy, tangy treats are sure to impress.
