Description
Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are a classic Southern American appetizer featuring tangy green tomatoes sliced, coated in a seasoned flour, egg, and cornmeal mixture, then fried to golden perfection. This recipe delivers a crunchy, flavorful bite, perfect as a side dish or snack, served best with ranch, remoulade, or spicy mayo.
Ingredients
Tomatoes and Seasoning
- 4 medium green tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Dredging Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1/2 inch depth in skillet)
Instructions
- Prepare tomatoes: Place sliced green tomatoes on a paper towel-lined tray and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat dry with paper towels.
- Set up dredging station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with black pepper, one with beaten eggs combined with buttermilk, and one with cornmeal mixed with seasoned breadcrumbs and garlic powder.
- Coat tomato slices: Dip each tomato slice first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and finally into the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, pressing it well to ensure an even coating.
- Heat oil: In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry tomatoes: Fry the coated tomato slices in batches without overcrowding for 2–3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Transfer fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any residual oil.
- Serve: Serve the crispy fried green tomatoes hot accompanied by ranch dressing, remoulade, or spicy mayonnaise.
Notes
- For extra-crispy tomatoes, chill the coated slices in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before frying.
- For a lighter alternative, you can air fry or bake the coated tomato slices instead of frying.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet while frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.