Go Back
- 4 medium-sized green tomatoes - 1 cup cornmeal - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - Salt and pepper - 1 cup buttermilk - Vegetable oil for frying Fried green tomatoes start with the right ingredients. First, select firm, green tomatoes. They should feel heavy and bright. This choice gives you the best crunch. You need cornmeal for that classic Southern flavor. The all-purpose flour adds a bit of extra texture. Spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder create depth. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors. Buttermilk is key for the batter. It helps the coating stick well. Use vegetable oil for frying. It has a high smoke point, making it perfect for frying. You can also make your own buttermilk by mixing milk and vinegar. Just stir one tablespoon of vinegar into one cup of milk and let it sit for five minutes. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps that follow. First, slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Next, sprinkle salt on the slices. This step draws out extra moisture. Let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes. After that, pat the slices dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better. Now, let’s set up our breading station. In one shallow dish, combine the following dry ingredients for breading: - 1 cup cornmeal - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste In another dish, pour in 1 cup of buttermilk. This will be our dip for the tomatoes. To start dredging, dip each tomato slice in the buttermilk. Make sure to let any excess buttermilk drip off. Then, coat it well in the cornmeal mixture. Repeat this until all slices are breaded. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer, which means it's ready. This usually happens around 350°F. Now, carefully add the breaded tomato slices to the hot oil. Fry them in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a perfect golden brown color. Once cooked, transfer the fried green tomatoes to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps drain any extra oil. Enjoy your crispy Southern delight! For more detailed steps, check out the Full Recipe. Choose firm green tomatoes with a smooth skin. Ripe green tomatoes should feel heavy for their size. Look for bright color and no blemishes. Freshness is key, as older tomatoes lose their crispness. Always select tomatoes from local markets when possible. They often taste better and support local farmers. For the best crunch, use a double coating method. First, dip the tomato slices in buttermilk. Then, coat them in the cornmeal mixture. Repeat this step for even more crunch. Using chilled buttermilk helps the breading stick better. It also creates a thicker, crispier layer. This extra effort makes a big difference in texture. Fried green tomatoes shine with great dipping sauces. Try ranch dressing or a zesty remoulade. These add a creamy contrast to the crispness. Serve them alongside shrimp or grits for a true Southern meal. They also pair well with a fresh salad or coleslaw. The bright flavors balance the richness of the tomatoes. For a fun twist, stack them in a sandwich for a tasty treat. {{image_2}} You can turn up the heat by adding spices. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper gives a nice kick. If you want more heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount based on your taste. This way, you can enjoy fried green tomatoes with a spicy twist! For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour. You can also use cornmeal alone if you prefer. Some people like to use almond flour, which adds a nutty flavor. These options let everyone enjoy this dish without worry. Fried green tomatoes make a great sandwich filling. Stack them between slices of bread with some cheese and greens. You can also layer fried green tomatoes in salads. They add crunch and flavor to any dish. Try them as appetizers topped with a dollop of creamy sauce. These ideas can make your meal even more special. To keep your fried green tomatoes fresh, use these best practices. First, let them cool completely. This step helps avoid steam that can make them soggy. Next, place them in an airtight container. This keeps moisture out and preserves their crispiness. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. When it's time to enjoy leftovers, you have options. The oven works well. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method helps them regain some crunch. You can also use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This method crisps them up nicely without adding extra oil. For stovetop reheating, use a skillet. Heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method gives them a fresh-fried taste. Whichever method you choose, keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Enjoy those crispy bites again! You can use ripened tomatoes, but the taste will change. Fried green tomatoes have a tangy and firm texture. Ripe tomatoes are sweeter and softer. This makes them less suitable for frying. The firm texture of green tomatoes holds up better when cooked. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, use ripe tomatoes but expect a different dish. Fried green tomatoes offer some health benefits. Green tomatoes are low in calories and high in fiber. They are a good source of vitamins A and C. These nutrients support your immune system and skin health. However, frying adds calories and fat. Enjoy fried green tomatoes in moderation. Pair them with fresh salads for a balanced meal. To check the oil temperature, use a thermometer. Aim for 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of bread in the oil. If it sizzles and browns in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready. You want the oil hot enough for a crispy crust, but not so hot that it burns the food. Fried green tomatoes are a tasty treat you can make at home. We explored the right ingredients, from fresh green tomatoes to flavorful spices. You learned the step-by-step process, tips for crispiness, and how to store leftovers. Consider trying variations for a spicy twist or gluten-free options. Enjoy them alone or as part of a meal. Fried green tomatoes are not just delicious; they also offer fun ways to improve your cooking skills. Happy frying.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Discover the irresistible crunch of Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes! This classic Southern dish is made with fresh green tomatoes, seasoned perfectly, and fried to golden perfection. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious appetizer or side dish that everyone will love. Ready to impress at your next gathering? Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this Southern comfort food to your table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 medium-sized green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds

1 cup cornmeal

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup buttermilk (or a mix of 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar as a substitute)

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tomatoes: Sprinkle salt on the sliced green tomatoes and let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture. Pat the slices dry with paper towels.

    Set Up the Breading Station: In one shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In another dish, pour in the buttermilk.

      Dredge the Tomatoes: Dip each tomato slice in the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture. Repeat until all slices are breaded.

        Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350°F or 175°C).

          Fry the Tomatoes: Carefully add the breaded tomato slices to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

            Drain: Once cooked, transfer the fried green tomatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

              Serve: Serve warm, optionally with a side of creamy dipping sauce like ranch or a homemade remoulade.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings