Crispy, Savory Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Welcome to Afterka’s kitchen, where we bring you the best of southern comfort food. Today, we’re making a classic dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor – Southern Fried Green Tomatoes. This delightful appetizer or side dish is perfect for any meal and is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Tomatoes:

• 4 large green tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Serving:

• Ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. Lay the slices out on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Set Up the Coating Stations

1. In one bowl, place the flour.
2. In a second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
3. In a third bowl, mix together the cornmeal, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Tomatoes

1. Dredge each tomato slice in the flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip the floured tomato slice into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Coat the tomato slice in the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.

Step 4: Fry the Tomatoes

1. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350°F).
2. Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips and Variations

• Cornmeal Mix: For extra flavor, you can use seasoned cornmeal or add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture for a spicy kick.
• Make It Healthier: Try baking the coated tomatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
• Dipping Sauce: While ranch dressing is a classic choice, try them with a spicy remoulade or a tangy aioli.

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are a true southern staple that brings comfort and a bit of nostalgia to the table. The crispy coating and tangy tomato center create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these fried green tomatoes are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Enjoy cooking and savoring this southern classic! Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media.