A Southern Delight You Can’t Miss
Fried green tomatoes are the epitome of Southern comfort food. With their golden, crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, they are an irresistible treat. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these crispy bites are guaranteed to be the highlight of any meal. With a unique blend of spices and a perfect crunch, this recipe is bound to become a staple at your next backyard gathering or weeknight dinner.
What Makes Fried Green Tomatoes So Special?
Fried green tomatoes have a rich, tangy flavor that’s distinctly different from their ripe counterparts. When fried to perfection, they offer a delightful crunch and a slightly tart taste, creating a balance that is both savory and satisfying. The key to making them irresistible lies in the seasoning and the cooking method.
PrintCrispy Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe: A Southern Classic You’ll Love
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic—crispy, tangy, and perfect for summer snacks or appetizers.
Ingredients
3 large green tomatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/3 cup cornmeal (fine white)
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg white (large)
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 tsp black pepper (ground)
1 1/2 tsp coarse salt
Instructions
1. Slice green tomatoes into 1/2-inch rounds.
2. Prepare dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, horseradish, hot sauce, lemon juice, mustard, and chopped pickle.
3. Combine flour, cornmeal, panko, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Dip each tomato slice in egg white, then dredge in flour mixture.
5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry tomatoes in batches, 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve with dipping sauce.
Notes
Use firm, unripe tomatoes for the best texture.
Adjust Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for desired spice level.
Serve immediately for best crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Serving Your Fried Green Tomatoes
The best way to serve your crispy fried green tomatoes is with your homemade dipping sauce on the side. This combination of crunchy, tangy, and spicy flavors will keep everyone coming back for more.
Tips for the Best Fried Green Tomatoes
- Choose Firm, Unripe Tomatoes: Only use firm, green tomatoes for frying. Ripe tomatoes will not hold up well to the frying process and may turn mushy.
- Don’t Skip the Cornmeal: Cornmeal adds a delightful texture and crunch to the coating, so be sure not to leave it out.
- Season Generously: A great fried green tomato is all about the seasoning. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: If the oil is too cold, your tomatoes will become soggy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn. The key is to maintain a steady medium-high heat while frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is this recipe a delicious treat, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light meal for a busy weeknight, or simply craving a crunchy snack, crispy fried green tomatoes will always hit the spot. Their unique flavor and texture make them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Conclusion: Fried Green Tomatoes—A Must-Try Southern Classic
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic for good reason. With their crispy coating and tender, tart interior, they offer a taste of nostalgia and comfort. This easy recipe ensures that you’ll be able to recreate the magic of this beloved dish right in your own kitchen. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Enjoy Your Fried Green Tomatoes with Friends and Family!
