These crispy Southern fried green tomatoes are a tasty treat! With a crunchy coating and juicy inside, they make a great side dish or snack. Plus, they’re easy to whip up!
Every bite has that wonderful crunch—perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. I often enjoy them as a light appetizer, and they never fail to impress my friends. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Tomatoes: You want to use firm green tomatoes for the best texture. If you can’t find green tomatoes, firm unripe red tomatoes can be used as a substitute, though they will be a bit sweeter.
Cornmeal: Regular cornmeal gives a hearty crunch, but using a mix of yellow cornmeal can amplify the texture. If you need something gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free cornmeal for the breading.
Buttermilk: Traditional in Southern cooking, buttermilk adds richness. You can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes!
Seasonings: The paprika and garlic powder add delicious flavor, but feel free to get creative! A touch of cayenne for heat or some Italian herbs can give a unique twist.
How Can I Get My Fried Green Tomatoes Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy fried green tomatoes lies in the preparation and frying techniques. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Slice your tomatoes evenly at about 1/4-inch thick. Thinner slices may get too mushy, while thicker ones may not cook through properly.
- Let the coated tomato slices rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the breading stick better!
- Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before adding the tomatoes. If it’s not hot enough, the coating can soak up too much oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve even browning.
Following these steps will help you make deliciously crispy fried green tomatoes every time. Enjoy cooking!
Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tomatoes:
- 4 large green tomatoes
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Wet Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time, giving you crispy, delicious fried green tomatoes in about half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by washing and drying the green tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them evenly into about 1/4-inch thick slices to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, yellow cornmeal (if using), salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is mixed together.
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture:
In another shallow bowl, crack the two large eggs and add the buttermilk (or regular milk). Whisk them together until fully combined.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about half an inch. Heat it over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. You can test the oil by dropping a small bit of coating in; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
5. Coat the Tomato Slices:
Take a slice of tomato and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off before proceeding. Then, dredge it in the flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Place the coated slices on a baking sheet or plate.
6. Fry the Tomatoes:
Carefully add the coated tomato slices to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the tomatoes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy fried green tomatoes hot! They are fantastic on their own or can be paired with a delicious dipping sauce like remoulade, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo.
Enjoy your authentic Southern-style crispy fried green tomatoes!
FAQ for Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
Can I Use Ripe Tomatoes Instead of Green Tomatoes?
While you can use unripe red tomatoes in a pinch, green tomatoes are recommended for their firm texture and tart flavor. Ripe tomatoes will be sweeter and softer, which may affect the crispy outcome.
Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free. This will maintain the crispy texture without any gluten.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture or fry them gently again for freshness.
What Dipping Sauces Go Well With Fried Green Tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes are delicious with various dipping sauces! Popular options include remoulade, ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even a simple squeeze of lemon juice for freshness.
