Description
Experience the comforting taste of classic Southern fried green tomatoes. These crispy on the outside, tangy and tender on the inside slices are coated in a flavorful breading and fried to golden perfection, making them an irresistible appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomatoes
- 3–4 firm green tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Breading Station
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk or buttermilk
- ¾ cup cornmeal (or cornmeal + breadcrumbs mix)
For Frying
- Vegetable or peanut oil, for frying
Optional Seasoning Boost
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Prep tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes into ¼-inch thick slices. Lightly salt both sides and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat the slices dry thoroughly to ensure they crisp up during frying rather than steaming.
- Set up dredging station: Prepare three bowls — Bowl 1 with flour seasoned with black pepper, Bowl 2 with whisked eggs and milk (or buttermilk), and Bowl 3 with cornmeal mixed with optional seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Bread the slices: Dip each tomato slice first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat well in the cornmeal mixture. Press gently so the coating adheres properly.
- Fry the tomatoes: Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F. Fry the tomato slices in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and season: Transfer the fried tomatoes to paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt while still hot to enhance flavor. Serve warm.
Notes
- Patting the tomatoes dry after salting is crucial to getting a crisp crust instead of soggy slices.
- You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk if desired, but buttermilk adds extra tang.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for even frying and to avoid greasy tomatoes.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the cayenne pepper from the seasoning mix.
- Serve these as an appetizer, side, or topping for sandwiches or burgers for a traditional Southern touch.
