🍅 Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Description
Crispy on the outside, tender and tangy on the inside—fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern comfort dish. The firm, tart green tomatoes are lightly breaded and fried until golden, making them a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. They pair beautifully with ranch dressing, remoulade, or a spicy aioli.
📝 Ingredients
- 3 firm green tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for flavor)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prep the Tomatoes: Slice tomatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Prepare Coating: Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Cornmeal, breadcrumbs, pepper, and paprika mixed
- Coat the Tomatoes: Dredge each tomato slice in flour, dip into the egg, and coat evenly with the breadcrumb–cornmeal mixture.
- Fry: Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry slices 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain & Serve: Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm with dipping sauce.
🍽️ Servings
Makes 4 servings (about 2–3 slices per person).
📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
(Values will vary depending on frying oil absorption and breading type.)
💡 Notes & Tips
- Use firm, underripe green tomatoes (not tomatillos or heirloom varieties) for best texture.
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—fry in batches for even crispiness.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer, but they’re best fresh.
🌿 Benefits
- Rich in vitamins A & C: Supports skin health and immunity.
- High in fiber: Aids digestion.
- Lycopene content: May help reduce inflammation.
- Comfort food with a healthier twist if air-fried instead of deep-fried.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I bake or air-fry instead of frying?
A: Yes! Brush slices lightly with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Or air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: You can slice and coat the tomatoes in advance, then refrigerate. Fry them just before serving.
Q: What sauces pair well with fried green tomatoes?
A: Classic ranch, Cajun remoulade, chipotle mayo, or even plain ketchup.
Q: Can I use red tomatoes instead?
A: No, ripe red tomatoes are too soft and watery—they won’t hold up during frying.