Introduction
Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern classic, known for their crispy exterior and tangy, tender interior.
This dish transforms unripe tomatoes into a delightful treat, perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack.
The combination of cornmeal and bread crumbs creates a satisfying crunch, while the simple seasoning lets the natural flavor of the tomatoes shine.
Whether you’re using homegrown tomatoes or found some firm green ones at the market, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy them.
Frying may seem intimidating, but with the right technique, you’ll achieve golden, crispy perfection every time.
Serve them with a dipping sauce like remoulade or ranch for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 large green tomatoes
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
How To Make Fried Green Tomatoes
Slice tomatoes 1/2 inch thick. Discard the ends.
Whisk eggs and milk together in a medium-size bowl. Scoop flour onto a plate. Mix cornmeal, bread crumbs and salt and pepper on another plate.
Dip tomatoes into flour to coat. Then dip the tomatoes into milk and egg mixture. Dredge in breadcrumbs to completely coat.
In a large skillet, pour vegetable oil (enough so that there is 1/2 inch of oil in the pan) and heat over a medium heat.
Place tomatoes into the frying pan in batches of 4 or 5, depending on the size of your skillet.
Do not crowd the tomatoes, they should not touch each other. When the tomatoes are browned, flip and fry them on the other side. Drain them on paper towels.
Variations
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
You can also experiment with different coatings—try using panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness or substituting half the flour with cornstarch for a lighter texture.
Another fun twist is adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breading for a savory, cheesy note.
If you prefer a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
For a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded tomato slices at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
While not quite the same as frying, it’s a great option for those avoiding excess oil.
For a different flavor profile, try seasoning the tomatoes with garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
You can even mix in a bit of buttermilk with the eggs for a tangier, richer coating. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Tips
To ensure your fried green tomatoes turn out perfectly, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the slices—about 350°F (175°C).
If the oil isn’t hot enough, the tomatoes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Use a kitchen thermometer to check, or test by dropping a small bit of breading into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
When breading the tomatoes, use one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet to avoid clumpy fingers.
This keeps the coating even and prevents excess batter from building up. Also, let the breaded slices rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—frying in batches ensures even cooking and crispiness. If the tomatoes touch each other, they’ll steam instead of fry, resulting in a soggy texture.
Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) while you finish frying the rest.
How to Store
Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soft and soggy.
If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can bread the tomato slices and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying.
This can even help the coating stick better. However, avoid freezing breaded raw tomatoes, as they’ll release too much moisture when thawed.
For longer storage, freeze fried green tomatoes after cooling completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy. While they won’t be quite as perfect as freshly fried, they’ll still be delicious.
Conclusion
Fried green tomatoes are a simple yet irresistible dish that celebrates the bright, tangy flavor of unripe tomatoes. With a crispy, golden crust and a tender center, they’re a versatile addition to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer with dipping sauce or alongside fried chicken and coleslaw, they’re sure to be a hit.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings and coatings to make this recipe your own. Once you master the technique, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. So grab some green tomatoes and get frying—your taste buds will thank you!