Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, golden-brown slices of tart green tomatoes coated in a seasoned cornmeal crust. A beloved Southern classic that's perfect as an appetizer or a summery side dish.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Tomatoes
- b.Slice the green tomatoes into consistent 1/4-inch (about 6mm) thick rounds.
- c.Arrange the slices in a single layer on a plate lined with paper towels.
- d.Sprinkle both sides of the tomato slices evenly with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture, which is key for a crispy crust.
- e.After 15 minutes, use another paper towel to pat the slices completely dry.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Set Up the Breading Station
- b.Prepare three shallow dishes or pie plates.
- c.In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour.
- d.In the second dish, whisk the large egg and buttermilk together until smooth and uniform.
- e.In the third dish, combine the yellow cornmeal, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Coat the Tomato Slices
- b.Take one dry tomato slice and dredge it in the flour, coating both sides. Gently tap off the excess flour.
- c.Next, dip the floured slice into the egg and buttermilk mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Let any excess drip back into the dish.
- d.Finally, press the slice firmly into the cornmeal mixture, covering both sides completely. Place the coated slice on a clean plate or wire rack and repeat with the remaining slices.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Fry the Tomatoes
- b.Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), or until a pinch of the cornmeal mixture sizzles immediately when dropped in.
- c.Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches of 3-4 slices at a time.
- d.Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until the crust is a deep golden brown and crispy. Use a thin spatula or tongs to flip them carefully.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Drain and Serve
- b.Transfer the fried tomatoes from the skillet to a wire rack to drain. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- c.Immediately sprinkle the hot tomatoes with a pinch of extra salt, if desired.
- d.Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as remoulade, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use firm, completely green tomatoes. Any hint of red or softness will result in a mushy texture after frying.
- 2Don't skip the salting and drying step. It's the most important secret to achieving a perfectly crispy crust that doesn't fall off.
- 3Maintain a consistent oil temperature. If the oil is too cool, the tomatoes will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it's too hot, the crust will burn before the tomato softens.
- 4To keep earlier batches warm while you finish frying, place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the cornmeal mixture for a smoky heat.
HerbedHerbed
Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or a Cajun seasoning blend to the cornmeal mixture for extra flavor.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
VeganVegan
Replace the egg and buttermilk with 1/4 cup of unsweetened plant-based milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Vitamin C
Green tomatoes are a good source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system.
Contains Antioxidants
While red tomatoes are famous for lycopene, green tomatoes contain other antioxidants like tomatine, which may have various health benefits.
Provides Energy
The flour and cornmeal coating is a source of carbohydrates, which the body uses as its primary fuel source for energy.
Frequently asked questions
Fried Green Tomatoes are a delicious indulgence rather than a health food. While tomatoes offer vitamins, the dish is high in calories and fat due to the frying process. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.