Description: Crispy, tangy, and utterly irresistible, fried green tomatoes are a quintessential Southern appetizer or side dish. This recipe elevates the classic with a perfectly seasoned breading and simple techniques that guarantee golden-brown perfection every time. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting!
Ingredients:
- 3 large green tomatoes, sliced approximately ¼ inch thick
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 6 dashes hot sauce (such as Tabasco or your favorite brand)
- 1 cup plain bread crumbs
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s)
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt, for finishing
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation:
This recipe is best when the ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start frying. This streamlined process will prevent uneven coating and ensure consistent cooking.
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Gently wash the green tomatoes and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, slice the tomatoes into ¼ inch thick rounds. Too thin, and they may fall apart during frying; too thick, and the inside may not heat through completely. Lay the tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels and lightly sprinkle with kosher salt. This helps to draw out excess moisture, which will result in crispier fried tomatoes. Allow the tomatoes to sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the breading station. Pat the tomatoes dry again before breading.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Organize a breading station with three shallow dishes or bowls.
- Bowl 1: Place the all-purpose flour in the first bowl. This will help the buttermilk mixture adhere to the tomatoes.
- Bowl 2: In the second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. The hot sauce adds a subtle kick that complements the tanginess of the green tomatoes.
- Bowl 3: In the third bowl, combine the bread crumbs, cornmeal, seasoning salt, white pepper, and garlic powder. The cornmeal adds a delightful crunch, while the seasoning blend provides a savory flavor profile.
Step 3: Bread the Tomato Slices
Working one at a time, dredge each tomato slice in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured tomato slice into the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl. Finally, transfer the tomato slice to the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to ensure it’s evenly coated on both sides. Repeat the breading process with the remaining tomato slices.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour approximately ½ inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet or cast-iron pan. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into it. If the breadcrumb sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
Step 5: Fry the Tomatoes
Carefully place the breaded tomato slices in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tomatoes. Fry the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to flip the tomatoes gently.
Step 6: Drain and Season
Remove the fried green tomatoes from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle the hot tomatoes with kosher salt to enhance their flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the fried green tomatoes immediately while they are still hot and crispy. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Classic Comfort Food: This recipe is a nostalgic taste of the South that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Tangy and Crispy: The combination of the tangy green tomatoes and the crispy breading is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- Versatile: Fried green tomatoes can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a topping for sandwiches and salads.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with a side of remoulade sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.
- Pair with grilled shrimp or fish for a delicious Southern-inspired meal.
- Add to a BLT sandwich for a unique twist on a classic.
- Top a salad with fried green tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Serve as a side dish alongside fried chicken, collard greens, and mashed potatoes for a complete Southern feast.
Tips:
- Use firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best results. Avoid tomatoes that are too soft or have started to turn red.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Work in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure crispy tomatoes.
- Keep the fried tomatoes warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) while you finish frying the remaining batches.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 ½ cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Consider adding 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a richer flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, based on a serving size of 3-4 tomato slices)
- Calories: Approximately 280
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: Varies depending on seasoning salt, approximately 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 31g
Conclusion:
Fried green tomatoes are more than just a dish; they’re a taste of Southern hospitality and a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. This recipe captures the essence of this classic dish, delivering crispy, tangy, and flavorful fried green tomatoes that will leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience a true Southern delight!
Questions and Answers About Fried Green Tomatoes:
- Q: Can I use ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
- A: While you can technically fry ripe tomatoes, the texture and flavor will be different. Green tomatoes are firm and tangy, which makes them ideal for frying. Ripe tomatoes are softer and sweeter, and they may become mushy when fried.
- Q: What’s the best type of oil to use for frying?
- A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good choices for frying green tomatoes. These oils have a high smoke point and a neutral flavor that won’t interfere with the taste of the tomatoes.
- Q: How do I prevent the breading from falling off the tomatoes?
- A: Make sure to dry the tomato slices thoroughly before breading them. Also, be sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the tomatoes to ensure they adhere properly. Finally, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying, as this can cause the breading to come loose.
- Q: Can I make fried green tomatoes ahead of time?
- A: Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed immediately, as they tend to lose their crispness over time. However, you can prepare the breaded tomato slices ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry them just before serving.
- Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
- A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 ½ cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This will create a similar tangy flavor and texture to buttermilk.
