Classic Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are one of the most iconic dishes in Southern cooking. With their golden, crispy exterior and tangy, firm interior, these tomatoes offer a perfect contrast of textures and flavors that make them irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, they represent the heart of Southern comfort food. This recipe is simple, easy to follow, and perfect for home cooks who want to bring a little Southern charm to their table.
What Are Fried Green Tomatoes?
Fried Green Tomatoes are slices of unripe (green) tomatoes, coated in seasoned cornmeal or flour, and pan-fried until golden and crunchy. They’re popular across the Southern U.S. and often served with creamy remoulade or ranch dressing.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Crispy and Flavorful: Seasoned coating ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile: Can be served as an appetizer, side, sandwich filling, or salad topper.
- Authentic Southern Taste: Brings a taste of the South to your kitchen.
Fried green tomatoes are a timeless dish that balances tangy freshness and crispy indulgence. Making them at home is easier than you think, and the end result is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. 🌿🍅
Classic Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the green tomatoes into ½-inch thick rounds and pat dry with paper towels.
- Whisk together the buttermilk and egg in a bowl.
- Mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Dip tomato slices in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour-cornmeal mixture. Press gently to coat.
- Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry tomato slices in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Drain fried tomatoes on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
📌 Save This Recipe
Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for easy access! 🌟 Whether you’re planning a Southern-themed dinner, prepping appetizers for a party, or simply looking for a comforting snack, these fried green tomatoes are sure to impress. Perfectly golden, crispy, and flavorful, this dish will become a staple in your recipe collection.
🔍 Tips for Perfect Fried Green Tomatoes
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: The best fried green tomatoes come from firm, unripe tomatoes. They provide the ideal texture and a slight tangy flavor.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent 350°F for a perfectly crispy crust. Using a thermometer helps, but you can also test by dropping a small pinch of the flour mixture in the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
- Extra Crunch: Add a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs to the flour-cornmeal mixture for an extra crunchy bite.
- Serve Fresh: Fried green tomatoes are best eaten immediately, but you can keep them warm in a 200°F oven for 10–15 minutes if needed.
📰 A Brief History
The origins of fried green tomatoes are debated. While now recognized as a Southern classic, similar recipes have been documented in the Northeastern United States as early as the 19th century. The dish became widely popular across the country after the 1991 film Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, which showcased the dish and highlighted Southern culinary traditions. Today, fried green tomatoes are enjoyed nationwide and have inspired countless variations and adaptations.
🥄 Ingredients
To make these classic Southern fried green tomatoes, you’ll need:
- 4 large firm green tomatoes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
These ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and many of them are staples in most kitchens. The key is selecting firm green tomatoes that are not overripe to ensure your fried tomatoes hold their shape during cooking.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes
Begin by slicing the green tomatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. Pat each slice dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Removing moisture is crucial, as it helps the coating adhere properly and prevents a soggy crust. - Set Up Breading Stations
In one bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined. In another bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour-cornmeal mixture will give your fried tomatoes that perfect crispy texture and bold flavor. - Coat the Tomato Slices
Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge it in the flour-cornmeal mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks. For an extra-crispy finish, you can double dredge by dipping again in buttermilk and then into the flour mixture. - Heat the Oil
Pour about ½ inch of vegetable oil into a cast iron skillet and heat it over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Proper oil temperature is essential for even frying and a golden-brown finish. - Fry the Tomatoes
Fry the tomato slices in batches, cooking each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in unevenly fried tomatoes. - Drain and Serve
Remove the fried tomatoes from the skillet and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as remoulade, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.
📰 A Brief History
The origins of fried green tomatoes are debated. While now recognized as a Southern classic, similar recipes have been documented in the Northeastern United States as early as the 19th century. The dish became widely popular across the country after the 1991 film Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, which showcased the dish and highlighted Southern culinary traditions. Today, fried green tomatoes are enjoyed nationwide and have inspired countless variations and adaptations.
🧊 Storage and Reheating
Although best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored:
- Refrigeration: Place cooled fried green tomatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
📦 Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for max crispiness!
