Easy Fried Green Tomatoes
Easy Fried Green Tomatoes
There’s something uniquely satisfying about the crispy, tangy taste of fried green tomatoes. A Southern classic, this dish offers a delightful way to make the most of the green tomatoes from your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or trying them for the first time, this recipe promises to deliver a delicious experience every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Easy Fried Green Tomatoes is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and steps, you can have a tasty appetizer or side dish ready in no time.
- Versatile: Serve them with breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite sauces.
- Flavorful: The combination of cornmeal and breadcrumbs gives these tomatoes a perfect crunch, while the seasonings add a flavorful kick.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Medium-size bowl
- Two plates
- Large skillet
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 large green tomatoes
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes to a thickness of 1/2 inch and discard the ends.
- In a medium-size bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Place the flour on a plate and mix the cornmeal, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper on another plate.
- Coat each tomato slice in flour, then dip them into the milk and egg mixture. Finally, dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure they are fully covered.
- In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium heat. Fry the tomatoes in batches of 4 or 5, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Once the tomatoes are golden brown, flip them to fry the other side. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips for Success
- Flour First: Coating the tomatoes in flour before the egg mixture helps the breadcrumbs adhere better, ensuring a crispy crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Frying too many slices at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy tomatoes. Fry in batches for best results.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a tangier flavor, substitute buttermilk for milk.
- Try using coconut oil mixed with butter for frying to add a unique flavor.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ripe tomatoes instead?
Fried green tomatoes are traditionally made with unripe, firm green tomatoes to ensure they hold their shape during frying. Ripe tomatoes may become too mushy.
What can I serve with fried green tomatoes?
They pair well with grilled meats, in sandwiches, or as a stand-alone snack with a dipping sauce like ranch or hot sauce.
Can I make these in advance?
While they’re best served fresh, you can prepare the breaded tomatoes ahead of time and fry them just before serving.
Conclusion
Ready to try this Southern classic? These Easy Fried Green Tomatoes are sure to be a hit at your table. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you come up with!
