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Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes are a Southern classic dish featuring firm, unripe green tomatoes sliced, coated in a seasoned cornmeal and flour batter, then fried to a crispy golden perfection. Combining a crunchy exterior with tangy, juicy tomatoes inside, this versatile recipe is a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish that captures the heart of Southern comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 firm green tomatoes, washed and sliced 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • Vegetable or peanut oil, for frying (about 1/2 inch depth in skillet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and dry the green tomatoes thoroughly, then slice them about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick to ensure they hold their shape while frying.
  2. Set Up the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the buttermilk until combined for dipping.
  3. Coat the Tomatoes: Dip each tomato slice first into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then dredge the slice in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable or peanut oil into a heavy skillet to about 1/2-inch depth. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for ideal frying temperature.
  5. Fry the Tomatoes: Fry the coated tomato slices in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain oil temperature and crispness.
  6. Drain and Serve: Transfer the fried green tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use firm green tomatoes to maintain structure during frying.
  • Keep oil temperature steady around 350°F to avoid greasy or soggy coating.
  • Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  • Pat tomatoes dry before coating to help breading stick better.
  • For extra crunch, consider double coating by dipping twice into egg mixture and cornmeal.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried green tomatoes, southern recipe, crispy green tomatoes, appetizer, snack, side dish