Get ready to transform ordinary green tomatoes into a crispy, mouth-watering delicacy that screams Southern hospitality! These fried green tomatoes aren't just a side dish – they're a culinary experience that will transport you straight to a sunny porch in the heart of the South. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this foolproof recipe will have you creating restaurant-quality fried green tomatoes that are guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium green tomatoes
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Wash green tomatoes thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Prepare three separate shallow dishes for breading station: first with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, second with buttermilk, and third with cornmeal.
- Season flour mixture with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk to combine evenly.
- Dredge each tomato slice first in seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat tomato slice completely in cornmeal, pressing gently to ensure even, thick coating adheres well.
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large cast-iron skillet to 350°F. Use enough oil to cover bottom of pan with about 1/4 inch depth.
- Carefully place breaded tomato slices into hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove fried tomatoes using slotted spatula, placing on wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Sprinkle additional salt immediately after frying while still hot for enhanced flavor.
- Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer, optionally with remoulade or ranch dipping sauce.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Select firm, unripe green tomatoes that are bright in color and free from soft spots.
- Temperature Matters: Keep your oil consistently at 350°F for the perfect golden-brown crust. Use a cooking thermometer for precision.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to ensure each tomato slice gets crispy and evenly cooked.
- Drain Excess Oil: Use a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping your tomatoes crisp instead of soggy.
- Serve Immediately: Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed hot and fresh, right out of the skillet.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your cornmeal coating for an extra flavor kick.
- Dipping Sauce Upgrade: Serve with homemade remoulade or a zesty ranch for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
