Fried Green Tomatoes are a beloved Southern delicacy, offering a delightful mix of tartness and crunch that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts far beyond their regional roots. This dish features unripe green tomatoes sliced and coated in a seasoned cornmeal or flour mixture, then fried to golden, crispy perfection. The firm texture of the green tomatoes provides a perfect contrast to the crispy coating, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Often served as an appetizer or side dish, Fried Green Tomatoes can be accompanied by a variety of sauces or dips, adding an extra layer of flavor to this already tantalizing treat. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or introducing friends to Southern cuisine, Fried Green Tomatoes are sure to be a hit.
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAmerican, Appetizers & Starters, VegetarianDifficultyBeginnerPrepare the Tomatoes:
Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper on both sides.
Dredge the Tomatoes:
Place the flour, buttermilk, and cornmeal in three separate shallow dishes.
Add paprika to the cornmeal for extra flavor if desired.
Dredge each tomato slice in flour, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with the cornmeal mixture, pressing to adhere.
Fry the Tomatoes:
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Fry the tomato slices in batches, without overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Drain the fried tomatoes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve:
Serve the Fried Green Tomatoes hot, garnished with additional salt if desired.
Ingredients
Directions
Prepare the Tomatoes:
Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper on both sides.
Dredge the Tomatoes:
Place the flour, buttermilk, and cornmeal in three separate shallow dishes.
Add paprika to the cornmeal for extra flavor if desired.
Dredge each tomato slice in flour, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat with the cornmeal mixture, pressing to adhere.
Fry the Tomatoes:
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Fry the tomato slices in batches, without overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Drain the fried tomatoes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve:
Serve the Fried Green Tomatoes hot, garnished with additional salt if desired.
Perfect Beverage Pairing:
- Iced Tea: A classic Southern choice, sweet or unsweetened iced tea complements the tanginess of the tomatoes and the richness of the fried coating.
- Alternative: A light, crisp beer like a pilsner or a lager can also pair nicely, offering a refreshing counterbalance to the dish’s flavors.
