Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic

Southern kitchens have long treasured this crispy fried green tomatoes recipe that turns unripe produce into a crunchy delicacy.

Farms across alabama produce these firm, tart fruits perfect for breading and frying.

Generations of cooks have perfected the art of coating sliced green tomatoes in cornmeal and seasoned flour.

Unexpected textures create magic when these tangy slices hit hot oil, developing a golden, crackling exterior.

Salt and pepper wake up the subtle flavors, making each bite a satisfying crunch.

Comfort and tradition blend seamlessly in this simple yet remarkable dish.

Come experience a classic southern staple that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients with pure deliciousness.

What You Use For Fried Green Tomatoes

• Green Tomatoes: Firm, unripe tomatoes with a tangy flavor that hold their shape perfectly during frying, best picked before fully ripening.

• Cornmeal, Flour: Classic Southern breading mixture that creates a crispy, golden exterior with a delightful crunch.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of the fried tomatoes.

• Eggs, Buttermilk: Binding agents that help the dry coating stick to the tomatoes, adding richness and a slight tanginess to the breading.
• Frying Oil: Neutral oil with a high smoke point, ideal for achieving a deep golden-brown crust without burning.

Fried Green Tomatoes Cooking Sequence

Step 1: Slice Those Juicy Green Tomatoes

Grab your sharp knife and cut the green tomatoes into perfect ¼ inch thick rounds.

Make sure each slice is even so they cook beautifully and look amazing on the plate.

Step 2: Create Magical Breading Mixture

In a wide, shallow bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.

This dry blend will give your tomatoes an incredible crispy coating that’ll make everyone’s mouth water.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Egg Wash

In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk until they’re smooth and well combined.

This wet mixture helps the breading stick perfectly to each tomato slice.

Step 4: Prepare Sizzling Skillet

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

You want the oil hot enough to create a gorgeous golden crust but not so hot that it burns the breading.

Step 5: Coat Tomatoes with Delicious Layer

Dunk each tomato slice first into the egg wash, letting the excess drip off.

Then roll it generously in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring every inch is covered with the crispy coating.

Step 6: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil.

Fry them in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

The exterior should be crunchy and the inside tender.

Step 7: Drain and Serve Immediately

Transfer the fried tomatoes onto paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible Southern-style treat.

Fried Green Tomatoes – Crisp Frying Tips

• Select green tomatoes that are completely green, free from any red spots, and feel firm when gently squeezed to ensure crispy texture.
• Maintain a consistent medium heat around 350°F to prevent burning and achieve a perfectly golden, crispy coating without absorbing excess oil.
• Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or garlic powder to the cornmeal mixture for extra flavor and a personalized touch.
• Pat tomato slices with paper towels before coating to remove excess liquid and help the breading stick better.
• Enjoy fried green tomatoes hot and crispy right after cooking, as they tend to lose crunchiness when left sitting for too long.

Fried Green Tomatoes: How to Keep Them Crisp and Reheat

• Store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container, keeping them flat to prevent sogginess. Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
• Preheat to 375°F, spread tomatoes on a baking sheet, and warm for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwave to maintain crunchiness.
• Place fried tomatoes on a wire rack over a baking sheet before reheating to help restore original crispness and prevent bottom from getting mushy.
• If tomatoes seem dry after reheating, serve with extra dipping sauce to enhance moisture and flavor.

What Complements Fried Green Tomatoes

• Pair with Crisp Southern Comfort: Serve alongside buttermilk ranch dressing for a tangy, creamy complement that enhances the tomatoes' crispy texture.
• Refresh with Zesty Beverage: Select a cold, light beer like a pilsner or wheat ale to cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast to the fried dish.
• Match with Bright Salad: Create a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the fried green tomatoes and add a fresh, peppery element.
• Elevate with Smoky Dip: Prepare a chipotle aioli or remoulade sauce that brings a smoky, spicy kick to complement the golden-brown crust of the tomatoes.

Fried Green Tomatoes with Seasoning Swaps

• Gluten-Free Southern Comfort: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free cornmeal and almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the crispy texture.
• Vegan Tomato Fritters: Swap eggs with aquafaba or flaxseed mixture, use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk, and ensure all coating ingredients are vegan-friendly.
• Low-Carb Crispy Option: Substitute cornmeal with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative that keeps the signature crunch.
• Air Fryer Health Hack: Skip deep-frying and use an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, reducing oil content while achieving a similar golden-brown exterior.

FAQs

• What are green tomatoes?

Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that are firm, tart, and picked before they turn red. They have a tangy flavor and are commonly used in Southern cuisine, especially in dishes like fried green tomatoes.

• How do I know if my tomatoes are green enough for this recipe?

Choose firm, completely green tomatoes that feel solid when you touch them. Avoid tomatoes with any hint of red or softness, as they won’t hold up well during frying.

• Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using to create a similar tangy flavor and texture.

• Is it safe to eat green tomatoes?

When cooked, green tomatoes are perfectly safe to eat. Raw green tomatoes contain solanine, which can cause digestive issues, so always cook them thoroughly before consuming.

Fried Green Tomatoes Capture Crispy, Southern Comfort

Savor Southern Simplicity: Quick Comfort Cooking craves this delicious recipe

• Easy Skill Level: Beginner cooks can master this classic Southern dish without complex techniques, making it perfect for novice kitchen enthusiasts.
• Rapid Weeknight Wonder: Prepare delectable fried green tomatoes in just 20 minutes from start to finish, ideal for busy families seeking fast, flavorful meals.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Requires minimal, affordable ingredients like green tomatoes, cornmeal, and basic pantry staples, ensuring an economical yet tasty dinner option.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Serves as a fantastic appetizer, side dish, or light meal that appeals to both kids and adults, perfect for summer gatherings and casual family dinners.

Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern charm meets culinary magic in these crispy Fried Green Tomatoes, a beloved classic that dances with tangy flavor and golden-brown perfection. Crunchy cornmeal coating and zesty seasonings invite you to savor a true taste of Southern hospitality on your plate.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 green tomatoes (medium)
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Breading Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Ingredient:

• Oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Carefully cut green tomatoes into uniform quarter-inch circular slices, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
2. Prepare a seasoned coating mixture by blending cornmeal, flour, salt, and black pepper in a wide shallow dish, creating a textured breading.
3. Create a wet batter in a separate container by thoroughly whisking eggs and buttermilk until smooth and well integrated.
4. Warm vegetable oil in a spacious cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium temperature, allowing it to reach optimal frying heat.
5. Develop a dipping technique by first submerging each tomato slice completely in the egg-buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
6. Generously coat the moistened tomato slice in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure a complete and adherent breading layer.
7. Carefully place breaded tomato slices into the hot oil, working in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and prevent overcrowding.
8. Fry each side for approximately 2-3 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crispy exterior and rotating to achieve even coloration.
9. Transfer fried tomatoes onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and preserve crispiness.
10. Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by a complementary dipping sauce for enhanced flavor and enjoyment.

Notes

• Choose firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best texture and tangy flavor that holds up during frying.
• Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy, even coating that sticks perfectly to the surface.
• Experiment with adding cayenne or smoked paprika to the cornmeal mixture for an extra kick of spice and depth of flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, swap wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free cornmeal blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern (American)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg