Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomatoes are a Southern classic that features firm, tart green tomatoes coated in a crispy cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection. This quick and easy recipe produces a crunchy, flavorful appetizer or side dish with a satisfying tangy bite. Perfect for snacks, sandwiches, or paired with dips, these versatile fried delights are sure to impress with every bite.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour and cornmeal used)
Main Ingredients
- 4 large firm green tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 cup cornmeal (use gluten-free cornmeal if needed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1/4 inch deep in skillet)
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy coating)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs like oregano or thyme (for herb-infused batter)
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds, removing any seeds or tough sections for an even texture and crisp finish.
- Set Up Your Dredging Station: Place the buttermilk in one bowl, the flour in a second bowl, and in a third bowl mix the cornmeal with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you choose to use.
- Coat the Tomato Slices: Dip each tomato slice first into the flour, coating evenly, then dunk into the buttermilk, and finally press into the cornmeal mixture until well coated on both sides.
- Heat the Oil and Fry: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy skillet to about 1/4-inch depth and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tomato slices in batches, cooking 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried green tomatoes from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use firm, unripe green tomatoes to ensure the best texture and to avoid sogginess.
- Keep the oil temperature steady at 350°F to maintain a crispy crust and avoid greasy texture.
- Fry in small batches without overcrowding the pan to keep oil temperature consistent.
- For extra crunch, double dip by repeating flour, buttermilk, and cornmeal steps.
- Drain fried tomatoes well on paper towels to keep them light and crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 3-4 slices)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: fried green tomatoes, southern recipe, crispy green tomatoes, appetizer, side dish, gluten free, vegetarian