Best Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Crispy, Southern Classic
What is fried green tomatoes? Forget those sad, soggy excuses you might have had somewhere else. We’re going for crispy, tangy perfection, the kind that makes you close your eyes and savor every minute. What is a Southern classic? Is it easier than pie to whip up? Think of it as the Southern cousin to mozzarella sticks, but with a whole lot more personality.
What is fried green tomato?
Fried green tomatoes are exactly what they sound like. Unripe (green) tomatoes that are sliced, coated in a breading, and then fried until golden brown and crispy. What is the best way to use up tomatoes that haven’t ripened yet? How can I avoid waste? Is it a culinary experience? Is summer on a plate? What is Southern comfort food at its finest?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What’s not to love? What I love the most is how easy it is. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to nail this one.
- Flavor:The tanginess of the green tomatoes paired with the salty, savory breading is a match made in heaven. What’s the secret of a flavor explosion? A pinch of cayenne in the breading – just a little kick!
- Simplicity:It’s a simple process with minimal ingredients. What are some of the best nights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Honestly, from start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes.
- Cost-Green tomatoes are often cheaper (or even free) if you grow your own. ), and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What is a great way to make scrumptious dinners on budget? I actually grow my own tomatoes, and this recipe is a lifesaver at the end of the season!
- Versatility:Can you serve these as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a topping for salads and sandwiches? What are some good dipping sauces to serve with these? I’ve had them on a burger!
If you love Southern cooking, you absolutely have to try my shrimp and grits recipe too! What are some of these beauties? What is the perfect balance of salty, tangy and crispy? What is the kind of dish that brings people together?
How to make best Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Crispy, Southern Classic.
Quick Overview
We’re basically going to slice our green tomatoes, dip them in a seasoned egg wash, and dredge them with sour cream. Cornmeal-based breading, and then fry them up until golden brown and crispy. Don’t be intimidated, it’s easier than you think! The secret is in the breading and the frying temperature. We want a nice, even coating and hot oil for the perfect crispness. How easy is it to make fried green tomatoes at home?
Ingredients Notes:
For the Green Tomatoes:
- Green tomatoes: These are the star of the show. Make sure they’re firm to the touch, not soft or mushy. Does size matter, but uniform size will help cook evenly. I usually go for four medium-sized ones.
For the Breading:
- All-purpose flour: This helps the egg wash adhere to the tomatoes. Can you use gluten-free flour if needed? Is there a gluten-free recipe?
- Yellow cornmeal: What gives fried green tomatoes their signature Southern flavor? Don’t use corn flour, it’s not the same thing.
- Salt and black pepper: Seasoning is key! Don’t be shy with salt and pepper.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These add a depth of flavor to the breading.
- What is Cayenne pepper?
For the Egg Wash:
- Eggs: The eggs help the breading stick to the tomatoes. I always use large eggs.
- Milk or buttermilk: This thins out the eggs and adds a little bit of richness. What is your preference for buttermilk? I always do this when I have buttermilk on hand but milk will do the trick.
- Hot sauce (optional): Adds a little bit of zing to the egg wash. My favorite is Tabasco.
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or canola oil: You need a neutral oil with high smoke point for frying. I tend to use vegetable oil since I always have it in my pantry. Peanut oil is also a good option.
What are the best step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. How do you heat the oil so that the tomatoes sizzle when you add them? While the oil is heating up, line a baking sheet with paper towels. How do you drain the oil from fried green tomatoes? I always do this or they are too greasy!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Set aside. What are some good ways to use cayenne pepper in a Make sure everything is well combined. What are the best ways to coat tomatoes with seasoning? This is so important to do before putting it on the tomatoes to make sure they are coated evenly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and hot sauce (if using). Again, make sure everything is well combined. The egg wash helps the breading adhere to the tomatoes and gives them a beautiful golden color.
Step 4: Combine
What is the fun part? Take a slice of green tomato and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Then, dip it in egg wash, again making sure to coat both sides. Lastly, dredge it in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breading adheres. Repeat this process with all the tomato slices. I like to use one hand for the wet ingredients and one for dry ingredients to keep my hands clean. How do I stop getting too messy?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
No filling is needed for this recipe! Just proceed directly to frying.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
No swirling or layering involved here, but make sure to arrange the breaded tomato slices in a single layer. a single layer on the plate while you wait for the oil to heat up. This will prevent them from sticking together.
Step 7: Bake
We’re frying, not baking! Carefully place the breaded tomato slices in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. I actually set my timer so they don’t burn.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Remove the fried green tomatoes from the skillet and place them on the prepared baking sheet to cool. Drain off excess oil. I don’t glaze them, but I do like to sprinkle them with a little bit of salt while they’re cooking. What really brings out the flavor?
Step 9: Slice & Serve
What is the best way to serve these hot and crispy fried potatoes immediately? You can serve them whole or slice them in half. I love to serve them with a creamy dipping sauce, like remoulade or ranch dressing. What are some good side dishes to serve with sour cream? I think this can be a meal!
What should I serve it with?
Fried green tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many different ways!
As an Appetizer:Serve with a creamy dipping sauce like remoulade, ranch, or even sriracha mayo. Arrange them on a platter with fresh parsley or cilantro.
As a Side Dish: They’re a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, chicken, or fish. They also pair well with other Southern classics like collard greens and cornbread.
As a Topping: Add them to salads, sandwiches, or burgers for a burst of flavor and texture. They’re especially good on a BLT!
For Cozy Snacks: Grab a plate of these for a snack. Just remember they are best fresh!
Growing up, my family always served these with a big Sunday supper. We’d have fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and of course, fried green tomatoes. It was the perfect comfort meal!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Best Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Crispy, Southern Classic
Want to take your fried green tomatoes to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Tomato Selection: Make sure your tomatoes are firm and green. If they’re starting to turn red, they’ll be too soft and won’t hold their shape when fried. I’ve actually tried using slightly riper tomatoes before, and they just turned to mush!
Breading Adhesion: The key to a good breading is making sure it adheres to the tomatoes properly. Dredge the tomatoes in flour first to help the egg wash stick. And don’t be afraid to press the cornmeal mixture onto the tomatoes to ensure a good coating. Also make sure not to over-crowd the pan!
Oil Temperature: The oil needs to be hot enough so the tomatoes sizzle when you add them, but not so hot that they burn. A good way to test the oil temperature is to drop a small piece of breading into the oil. If it turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
Dipping Sauce Variety: Experiment with different dipping sauces to find your favorite. Remoulade is a classic choice, but ranch, sriracha mayo, and even honey mustard are all delicious options. I also have to test it with peanut butter!
Ingredient Swaps: While I love the classic recipe, feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breading. Smoked paprika, chili powder, and even Italian seasoning can add a unique twist. You can also use different types of flour, like rice flour or almond flour, for a gluten-free option.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, let’s be honest, fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh. But if you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving them at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. They’ll start to get soggy.
Refrigerator Storage: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that they will lose some of their crispness.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing fried green tomatoes. They’ll become very soggy when thawed.
Reheating: The best way to reheat fried green tomatoes is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and slightly crispy. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a little bit of oil, but they might not get as crispy. I never microwave them – that’s a recipe for soggy disaster!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
There you have it, folks! My grandma’s recipe for the Best Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Crispy, Southern Classic. I truly hope you give this a try because it is worth it. This recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of Southern heritage and a way to bring a little bit of sunshine to your table. The crispy, tangy flavor is simply irresistible, and I guarantee you’ll be hooked after just one bite. If you love this one, you should check out my fried okra recipe. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
Happy cooking!
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Best Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Crispy, Southern Classic
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium green tomatoes sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place sliced tomatoes on a plate and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornmeal, and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, pour the buttermilk.
- Dip tomatoes in buttermilk, then dredge them in the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry tomatoes in batches until golden brown on each side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
