Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Tasty Southern Classic

Introduction

Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern dish.

They are made with unripe, firm green tomatoes.

The tomatoes are sliced, coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture, and then fried until crispy.

This dish is perfect for using up unripe tomatoes from your garden.

Plus, it’s a delicious way to enjoy this summer fruit.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 4 large green tomatoes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. First, slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Then, season the slices with salt and pepper.
  2. Next, prepare the coating by mixing the flour, cornmeal, salt, and peppers in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk.
  3. Now, dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk. After that, dredge the slices in the flour mixture until they are well-coated.
  4. After coating the tomato slices, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is about 1/4-inch deep.
  5. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated tomato slices into the skillet. Fry the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  6. Finally, remove the fried tomatoes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Fried green tomatoes are best served hot and crispy.

You can enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

Some people like to serve them with a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or remoulade.

You can also use them as a tasty topping for burgers or sandwiches.

Understanding Green Tomatoes

A plate of golden-brown, crispy fried green tomatoes, garnished with fresh herbs and served with a side of creamy dipping sauce

Crispy fried green tomatoes are a tasty snack made with unripe tomatoes that have a tangy taste.

These snacks are crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

  • Unripe green tomatoes
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cornmeal
  • Bread crumbs
  • Salt and pepper
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Oil for frying

To make this snack, start by slicing green tomatoes about 1/4-inch thick.

Next, prepare three separate bowls for coating:

  1. In the first bowl, mix flour and a pinch of salt.
  2. In the second, whisk together eggs and a splash of milk.
  3. In the third, combine breadcrumbs and cornmeal.

Dip each tomato slice into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumbs.

In a skillet, heat oil to about 375°F (190°C).

Fry the coated tomatoes in small batches to keep them from sticking together.

Cook until both sides turn golden brown.

Transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.

Serve your fried green tomatoes while they’re still hot and crispy!