Fried Green Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fried Green Tomatoes are irresistibly crunchy and satisfying. The combination of crispy breading and the tartness of the green tomatoes makes this dish an unforgettable experience. It’s simple yet bursting with flavor, perfect for pairing with other Southern dishes or serving as a snack on its own. Plus, this recipe provides clear, easy-to-follow steps, so even novice cooks can enjoy this delicious treat without hassle.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 green tomatoes, sliced

• Vegetable oil for frying (enough to fill your skillet about 1½ inches deep)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups buttermilk

• 1 egg

• 6 dashes hot sauce

• 1 cup regular bread crumbs

• ½ cup yellow cornmeal

• 1 teaspoon Lawry’s seasoning salt

• ½ teaspoon white pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Kosher salt for garnish after frying

Directions

1. Heat the oil: In a heavy-duty skillet, heat your vegetable oil to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).

2. Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes into ¼-inch thick slices. Lay them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Once sliced, place another paper towel on top and blot away any remaining moisture.

3. Set up dredging station: Set out 3 shallow dishes:

   • Dish 1: Place flour.

   • Dish 2: Mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.

   • Dish 3: Mix breadcrumbs, cornmeal, seasoning salt, white pepper, and garlic powder.

4. Dredge the tomatoes: Coat each tomato slice in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip the floured slice into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture and shake off any excess. Place the coated tomatoes on a clean plate.

5. Fry the tomatoes: Carefully place 3-4 tomato slices into the hot oil and fry for 2 minutes, or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for best results. Remove fried tomatoes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

6. Finish and serve: Once all tomatoes are fried, sprinkle with kosher salt and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 14

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Fry time (per batch): 2 minutes

• Total time: 17 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Fried Green Tomatoes: Add more hot sauce or incorporate cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to suit dietary preferences.

• Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the breaded tomatoes at 400°F for 15 minutes or until crispy.

Storage/Reheating

• To store: Let the fried green tomatoes cool completely before storing them in the refrigerator. Place them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined plate and cover. Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

• To freeze: Lay fried tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them, and then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

• To reheat: For the best texture, reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small bit of the breadcrumb mixture into it—if it bubbles and fries immediately, the oil is ready.

Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green ones?

Green tomatoes are best for frying because of their firm texture and tartness, but ripe tomatoes can be used in a pinch. However, they may be softer and less tangy.

What’s the best oil for frying these tomatoes?

Vegetable oil works well for frying, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil, which have high smoking points and produce crispy results.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the buttermilk mixture and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time and store them in the fridge. However, it's best to coat the tomatoes just before frying to maintain crispiness.

How do I make these tomatoes extra crispy?

The combination of breadcrumbs and cornmeal in the breading helps create a crispy crust. Be sure to press the coating onto the tomatoes firmly to get a good crunch.

What should I serve with fried green tomatoes?

These tomatoes pair wonderfully with Southern favorites like fried chicken, coleslaw, or cornbread. They also make a great snack with a dipping sauce like ranch or remoulade.

How do I make fried green tomatoes without an electric fryer?

A heavy-duty skillet with a thermometer works great for frying. Just make sure to monitor the oil temperature and avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Can I use a different seasoning for the breading?

Feel free to experiment with seasonings like paprika, onion powder, or thyme to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.

How long can I store fried green tomatoes in the fridge?

Fried green tomatoes can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg and buttermilk with vegan alternatives like almond milk and flax eggs, and make sure your breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Fried Green Tomatoes are a mouthwatering dish that brings the taste of the South straight to your kitchen. With a crispy, seasoned coating and a tangy tomato interior, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a bite of Southern comfort!