Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern classic, known for their crispy coating and tangy, tender interior. This dish makes a great appetizer, side dish, or even a delicious snack. With a perfect blend of flour, cornmeal, and panko breadcrumbs, these fried green tomatoes are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 4 large green tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Slice the Tomatoes:
- Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat the slices dry with another paper towel.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
- Prepare the Flour Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In another shallow dish, whisk together 2 beaten eggs and 1 cup of buttermilk until well combined.
- Prepare the Cornmeal Mixture:
- In a third shallow dish, combine 1 cup of cornmeal and 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Mix well.
Step 3: Bread the Tomatoes
- Coat with Flour:
- Dredge each tomato slice in the flour mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip in Egg Mixture:
- Dip the floured tomato slices into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Coat with Cornmeal Mixture:
- Finally, dredge the tomato slices in the cornmeal and panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Ensure each slice is thoroughly coated.
Step 4: Fry the Tomatoes
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry the Tomatoes:
- Carefully place the breaded tomato slices into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain the Tomatoes:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried tomatoes from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate and Serve:
- Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, garnished with a sprinkle of salt if desired. They pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce like remoulade, ranch dressing, or a simple aioli.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Tomatoes: Choose firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best texture. Overripe tomatoes may become too soft when fried.
- Breading: Ensure each tomato slice is well-coated at each breading station to achieve a crispy, even coating.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the tomatoes are cooked through.
Variations
Spicy Fried Green Tomatoes
- Add Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
Parmesan Fried Green Tomatoes
- Add Cheese: Mix 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the cornmeal and panko breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
Gluten-Free Fried Green Tomatoes
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Dipping Sauces
- Remoulade: A classic choice, remoulade sauce adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with fried green tomatoes.
- Ranch Dressing: A cool, creamy ranch dressing is another great option for dipping.
- Aioli: A simple garlic aioli adds a rich and flavorful touch.
Accompaniments
- Salad: Serve the fried green tomatoes on a bed of fresh greens for a light and refreshing meal.
- Sandwiches: Add fried green tomatoes to sandwiches or burgers for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Breakfast: Serve with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty Southern breakfast.
FAQs
Q: Can I make fried green tomatoes ahead of time? A: Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh and hot. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, you can keep them warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven for up to 30 minutes.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to maintain their crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze fried green tomatoes? A: It’s not recommended to freeze fried green tomatoes, as their texture may change when reheated. They are best enjoyed fresh.
Q: What oil is best for frying green tomatoes? A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good choices for frying due to their high smoke points.
Q: Can I use red tomatoes instead of green tomatoes? A: Green tomatoes are preferred for their firmness and tangy flavor. Red tomatoes are softer and may not hold up as well when fried.
Fried green tomatoes are a crispy, flavorful Southern classic that’s perfect for any occasion. With their golden-brown coating and tender, tangy interior, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these fried green tomatoes are easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this iconic Southern treat with your family and friends!
