Fried green tomatoes
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are one of those beloved Southern dishes that can be found on menus in restaurants all over the country. Crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet, this classic Southern dish is a fan favorite. Whether you’re a fan of fried foods or not, you can’t deny the appeal of these crispy treats. To introduce you to the dish and its origins, and how we make the recipe in the South, we’ll take you on a culinary journey.
Originating in the Southern United States during the 19th century, Fried Green Tomatoes were a way for Southerners to enjoy their ripe, just-before-fall-from-the-vine tomatoes. The dish was a necessity for preserving a bumper crop of unripe tomatoes, which would have been too hard and tart to eat raw. By slicing green tomatoes into thin slices, dredging them in seasoned cornmeal or flour, and frying them until they were crispy and golden brown, Southerners could enjoy their summer harvest throughout the year.
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. They can be a snack that pairs perfectly with a cold beer or paired with a refreshing, crisp salad to create a complete meal. While they can be a delicious addition to any meal or snack, they make a very impressive snack or appetizer that is perfect for entertaining guests.
Although there are many variations, the basic recipe typically involves coating green tomato slices in a seasoned cornmeal or flour mixture, then frying them until crispy and golden brown. The tomatoes should be firm and not too ripe, as this ensures that they hold their shape when frying. The beauty of this dish is that the seasoning is up to the chef’s discretion. Hot sauce, salt, and cracked black pepper are among the most popular seasonings used.
When it comes to preparation, many Southern cooks will soak the tomato slices in buttermilk to tenderize them before dredging them in a seasoned cornmeal mixture. Once the slices are fully coated, they are deep-fried in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. For a lighter version, they can also be baked on a baking sheet brushed with oil in a hot oven until they reach crispy perfection.
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are usually served hot, garnished with a sprinkling of salt and pepper, alongside your favorite dipping sauce. Some use a tangy homemade chutney or salsa to accompany the fried slices. Classic Southern staples, like pimento cheese, are also a popular pairing for this dish. Some even go as far as stacking the fried tomato slices with bacon and a runny egg, the perfect Southern breakfast sandwich.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack or appetizer or you’re simply curious about Southern cuisine, Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are a must-try. The crispy, flavorful slices are a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of traditional Southern cuisine. So, the next time you’re at your local farmer’s market or grocery store, grab some green tomatoes and try your hand at this timeless Southern classic.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 large green tomatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4 inch rounds, discarding the ends.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- In a third shallow dish, place the cornmeal.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the cornmeal, making sure each slice is well coated.
- Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt, if desired. Enjoy!