Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are the kind of dish that can transport you straight to a sun-soaked porch on a lazy summer afternoon. Imagine biting into a perfectly fried slice, with the crunch echoing like a symphony of goodness in your mouth, while the tangy green tomato bursts with flavor, all drizzled in a hint of zesty remoulade. perfect side for fried green tomatoes The aroma wafts through the air, making it impossible to resist.
Growing up in the South, I remember my grandmother whipping these up like she was casting a spell in her kitchen. Friends and family would gather around the table, eagerly awaiting those golden discs of joy. hearty Southern seafood dish Whether itβs for a picnic, casual gathering, or just a cozy night in, Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are guaranteed to spark joy and laughter.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe offers both ease of preparation and unforgettable flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing
- The visual appeal is undeniable; golden-brown tomatoes served hot make for an eye-catching dish at any gathering
- Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they adapt wonderfully to various occasions
- Experience a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with their tender interior
I remember serving these crispy delights at my last family reunion; everyone went back for seconds and thirds! For more inspiration, check out this Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Green Tomatoes: Choose firm tomatoes that are unripe for the best texture and tangy flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: A staple ingredient that forms the base coating for those crunchy bites.
- Cornmeal: Adds a delightful crunch and Southern flair to your coating.
- Buttermilk: Use this for marinating; it tenderizes the tomatoes while adding richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors in your tomatoes.
- Oil for Frying: Choose vegetable or peanut oil for high smoke points and great frying results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make It Together
Prep Your Tomatoes: Start by washing your green tomatoes thoroughly, then slice them into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture since we want maximum crunch when frying.
Create Your Buttermilk Bath: In a bowl, pour enough buttermilk to submerge your tomato slices completely. Feel free to add a pinch of salt here for extra flavor.
Dredge Away!: In another bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk first, then dredge it through the flour mixture until entirely coated.
Heat Your Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. You can test if itβs hot by dropping in a tiny bit of batter; it should sizzle!
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place your coated tomato slices into the hot oil, frying until theyβre golden brown on each sideβabout 3-4 minutes per side should do it.
Drain and Serve!: Once perfectly fried, transfer them onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy as they are!
With these steps completed, youβre now ready to share Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes with friends and family or indulge soloβyou deserve it! Enjoy every crunchy bite! unique Mediterranean twist.
You Must Know
- Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are not just a dish; they symbolize Southern hospitality
- The crunchiness combined with a hint of tartness makes them a crowd-pleaser
- Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack, theyβll transport you straight to the heart of the South
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the green tomatoes and salting them to draw out moisture. Prepare your breading station while they rest, then heat the oil until it shimmers before frying for that golden crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Add cayenne pepper to your cornmeal mix for heat or experiment with garlic powder for extra flavor. You can also swap traditional cornmeal for panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350Β°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best results; ripe ones wonβt hold their shape well
- Ensure your oil is hot enough to avoid soggy results and fry in batches to maintain temperature
- Always season between layers for maximum flavor impact
The first time I made these crispy delights, my friends couldnβt stop raving about them! One even declared they were βbetter than fries.β That compliment still makes me smile every time I flip those green beauties.
FAQ
What type of tomatoes should I use for fried green tomatoes?
Use firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make fried green tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them but fry just before serving for maximum crunch.
What can I serve with crispy southern fried green tomatoes?
Pair them with ranch dressing or homemade remoulade sauce for dipping!

Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x
Description
Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Southern cooking. With their golden, crunchy exterior and tangy green tomato center, these bites are perfect for any occasionβbe it a summer picnic or a cozy night in. Served with zesty remoulade or enjoyed on their own, theyβre sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 medium green tomatoes, firm and unripe
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)
Instructions
- Slice green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and pat dry.
- Pour buttermilk into a bowl; add a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Dip each tomato slice into buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture.
- Fry slices in hot oil until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side).
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 slices (90g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: For added spice, incorporate cayenne pepper into the cornmeal mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350Β°F for optimal crispiness.