Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern delicacy that bring a taste of nostalgia to the table. With their crispy, golden crust and tangy flavor, they make a perfect appetizer or side dish. Whether served with a zesty dipping sauce or alongside a hearty meal, these tomatoes are sure to impress. Get ready to dive into this easy and delicious recipe that celebrates the flavors of fresh, unripe tomatoes!
Ingredients
- 4 medium green tomatoes
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 3-4 slices of fried green tomatoes) contains about 200 calories, 10g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by washing and slicing the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each tomato slice into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat the tomato slice with the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated tomato slices into the skillet.
- Fry the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cornmeal with breadcrumbs for a different texture. Additionally, buttermilk can be replaced with regular milk mixed with a bit of vinegar for a similar tangy effect.
Serving and Pairings
Fried green tomatoes pair beautifully with a spicy remoulade or ranch dressing. They can also be served alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a Southern-inspired meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using ripe tomatoes will result in mushy textures.
- Not allowing the oil to heat properly can lead to soggy tomatoes.
- Skipping the buttermilk can affect flavor and texture.
- Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature.
- Not pressing the cornmeal mixture firmly can cause it to fall off during frying.
Helpful Tips
- Choose firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best results.
- Season the flour mixture for added flavor.
- Let the coated tomatoes sit for a few minutes before frying.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Experiment with different spices in the cornmeal mixture.
FAQs
What type of tomatoes are best for frying?
Green, unripe tomatoes are best as they hold their shape and have a firm texture, making them ideal for frying. Look for tomatoes that are firm and without blemishes.
Can I use a different coating for fried green tomatoes?
Yes, you can use breadcrumbs or panko for a different texture. A seasoned flour mixture can also add extra flavor.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
To test the oil, drop a small piece of bread into the pan; if it sizzles and browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready for frying.
Can I make fried green tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and fry them ahead of time, then reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.
What can I serve with fried green tomatoes?
They pair well with remoulade sauce, ranch dressing, or can be served as a side dish with grilled meats.
Conclusion
Fried green tomatoes are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Southern cooking. Their crispy exterior and tangy flavor make them a hit at any gathering. Whether as an appetizer or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the table.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 4 medium green tomatoes
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Wash and slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each tomato slice into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat the tomato slice with the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the skillet.
- Fry the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
