Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern dish that perfectly combines crispy textures with a tangy flavor. This dish, made from unripe green tomatoes, is not only delicious but also quite simple to prepare. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, fried green tomatoes are sure to impress with their golden-brown crust and tender interior. Let’s dive into this classic recipe and learn how to make it at home!
Ingredients
– 4 medium green tomatoes
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (about 3 slices): Calories: 250, Protein: 4g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Fat: 14g, Fiber: 3g. This nutritional information is based on a serving size of 3 slices of fried green tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by washing the green tomatoes and slicing them into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
3. In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each tomato slice in the buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off.
5. Dredge the slices in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
7. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated tomato slices in the pan.
8. Fry the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
10. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar for a similar tangy effect.
Serving and Pairings
Fried green tomatoes are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with creamy sauces like ranch or remoulade. They also complement fried chicken, burgers, or can be served alongside a fresh salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Fried green tomatoes can be frozen, but they may lose some texture upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid using overly ripe tomatoes; they should be firm and green.
– Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent sogginess.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
– Let excess batter drip off before frying to avoid clumping.
– Be careful not to burn the tomatoes; adjust heat as necessary.
Helpful Tips
– Use a cast-iron skillet for better heat retention.
– Experiment with spices in the cornmeal mixture for added flavor.
– Serve with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
– For extra crunch, double-dip the tomatoes in the egg and flour.
FAQs
What are fried green tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes are slices of unripe green tomatoes that are breaded and fried until crispy. They are a traditional Southern dish, often served as a side or appetizer.
Can I use ripe tomatoes?
While ripe tomatoes can be used, they will not provide the same firm texture and tangy flavor that green tomatoes offer. It’s best to stick with firm, unripe green tomatoes.
What dipping sauces go well with fried green tomatoes?
Popular dipping sauces include ranch dressing, remoulade, and spicy mayo. These sauces complement the crispy texture and tangy flavor of the tomatoes.
How can I make fried green tomatoes healthier?
To make them healthier, consider baking instead of frying. You can also use whole wheat flour and reduce the amount of oil used for frying.
Can I freeze fried green tomatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze them before frying, then cook them directly from frozen when ready to eat.
Conclusion
Fried green tomatoes are a delightful dish that brings a taste of the South to your table. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed as a snack or paired with your favorite main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try making them at home and savor the deliciousness!
Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 4 medium green tomatoes
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Wash the green tomatoes and slice them into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each tomato slice in the buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge the slices in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated tomato slices in the pan.
- Fry the tomatoes for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
