✅ Ingredients:
- 4 medium green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tsp vinegar as a substitute)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal (or breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for added crispiness)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Tomatoes
- Wash and slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Lay them on a paper towel-lined tray, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 15–20 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
Prepare 3 shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs with the buttermilk (or milk substitute).
- Bowl 3: Combine cornmeal with garlic powder, paprika, and a little more salt and pepper.
3. Coat the Tomato Slices
- Dredge each slice in the flour mixture first.
- Dip it into the egg mixture.
- Then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture.
- Place breaded slices on a clean plate while heating oil.
4. Fry the Tomatoes
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
- Once oil is hot (around 350°F or when a small pinch of cornmeal sizzles), carefully add tomato slices.
- Fry 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
5. Serve
Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces:
- Ranch
- Spicy aioli
- Remoulade
- Hot sauce
🍽 Tips & Variations:
- For a healthier version, bake them at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air fryer? Yes! Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
- Add a bit of Parmesan to the cornmeal for extra flavor.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier bite.
📝 Final Thoughts:
Fried green tomatoes are the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish — crunchy, tangy, and deeply satisfying. They go great with Southern classics like fried chicken, pulled pork, or collard greens. Plus, they’re a great way to use up unripe tomatoes from your garden.
Leave a Reply