Fried Green Tomatoes whisk you back to sun-warmed porches and laughter echoing through family gatherings. Each firm slice is dusted in flour, dunked in a tangy buttermilk blend laced with fiery hot sauce, then rolled in a golden crunch of breadcrumbs and cornmeal seasoned just right. When they hit the shimmering oil, they transform into crispy disks of delight with tender, juicy centers. A sprinkle of kosher salt dances on top as you bite in, releasing a burst of savory flavor and playful texture. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and let every bite spark a smile.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Fried Green Tomatoes
- Perfectly crispy texture that satisfies every bite.
- Fresh and tangy flavor from the green tomatoes.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have at home.
- Great as an appetizer or a side dish for any meal.
- Customizable with your favorite spices and sauces.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Appetizer |
| Cuisine | Southern |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and crispy |
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create the perfect Fried Green Tomatoes!
- 3 Green tomatoes – sliced
- Vegetable oil – for frying (1½ inches deep in skillet)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – for dredging
- 1½ cups buttermilk – for coating
- 1 egg – beaten
- 6 dashes hot sauce – to taste
- 1 cup regular bread crumbs – for coating
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal – adds texture
- 1 teaspoon Lawry’s seasoning salt – for flavor
- ½ teaspoon white pepper – for seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – for seasoning
- Kosher salt – for garnish after frying
How to Make Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomatoes are a delightful treat that brings a taste of the South to your table. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 10 minutes, you’ll have these crispy delights ready to enjoy in no time!
Step 1: Heat Oil
Heat oil to 350°F in a heavy-duty 3-inch-deep skillet. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Step 2: Prepare Plate
Prepare a clean plate with paper towels to place the fried tomatoes on.
Step 3: Slice Tomatoes
Slice tomatoes into ÂĽ-inch thick slices and blot moisture with paper towels.
Step 4: Set Up Dredging Station
Set up three shallow dishes: dish 1 with flour, dish 2 with whisked buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce, and dish 3 with mixed breadcrumbs, cornmeal, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and white pepper.
Step 5: Dredge Slices
Dredge each tomato slice: coat in flour, dip in buttermilk mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mix. Shake off excess.
Step 6: Fry Tomatoes
Carefully fry 3–4 slices at 350°F for 2 minutes until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Remove fried tomatoes and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with kosher salt and repeat until all are done.
Pro Tips for Making Fried Green Tomatoes
- Choose firm green tomatoes for the best texture.
- Let the coated tomatoes rest for a few minutes before frying.
- Maintain oil temperature for even cooking and crispiness.
- Experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mix.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and crunch.
How to Serve this Fried Green Tomatoes
- Serve with a zesty remoulade or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Pair with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Layer on a sandwich with avocado and lettuce for a tasty twist.
- Serve alongside a bowl of creamy soup for a comforting combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Fried Green Tomatoes can be stored and enjoyed later with these simple tips:
Storing Fried Green Tomatoes Leftovers
- Allow the fried tomatoes to cool completely.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Fried Green Tomatoes
- Cool the fried tomatoes completely before freezing.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Label and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Fried Green Tomatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- For best results, avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat oil to 350°F in a heavy-duty 3-inch-deep skillet. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Step 2: Prepare a clean plate with paper towels to place the fried tomatoes on.
- Step 3: Slice tomatoes into ÂĽ-inch thick slices and blot moisture with paper towels.
- Step 4: Set up three shallow dishes: dish 1 with flour, dish 2 with whisked buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce, and dish 3 with mixed breadcrumbs, cornmeal, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and white pepper.
- Step 5: Dredge each tomato slice: coat in flour, dip in buttermilk mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mix. Shake off excess.
- Step 6: Carefully fry 3–4 slices at 350°F for 2 minutes until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Step 7: Remove fried tomatoes and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with kosher salt and repeat until all are done.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbs | 25g |
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
While green tomatoes are traditional for this recipe, you can use slightly unripe regular tomatoes as a substitute. However, the flavor and texture will differ, as green tomatoes are firmer and have a tangy taste that complements the frying process beautifully.
2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1½ cups of milk with 1½ tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, and it will work perfectly in this recipe.
3. How can I make these fried green tomatoes gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many gluten-free flour blends available, and you can use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the coated green tomatoes for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Final Thoughts
Fried Green Tomatoes are a delightful treat that brings a taste of nostalgia to your table! With their crispy coating and tangy flavor, they’re simple to make and oh-so-rewarding. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and enjoy this classic dish that’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Happy frying!