Ingredients

• 4 large green tomatoes
• 2 large 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

Making It Step by Step

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Wash the green tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
   • Slice the tomatoes into ½-inch thick slices. Ensure the slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations:
   • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
   • In another shallow bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, bread crumbs, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
3. Bread the Tomatoes:
   • Dip each tomato slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Transfer the coated tomato slice to the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Dredge both sides of the tomato slice in the flour mixture. Set aside on a plate.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You need enough oil to submerge at least half of each tomato slice. The oil should be hot but not smoking. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a small pinch of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
5. Fry the Tomatoes:
   • Carefully place the breaded tomato slices into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary.
   • Cook the tomatoes for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently.
6. Drain and Serve:
   • Remove the fried tomato slices from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
   • Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or alongside dipping sauces of your choice.

Cooking Tips

• Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature to avoid soggy or overly greasy tomatoes. If the oil is too hot, the breading might burn before the tomatoes are cooked through.
• Uniform Slicing: Slice the tomatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with additional spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder in the breading mixture to add extra flavor.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They may lose some of their crispiness but will still be tasty.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore some of the original crispiness. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the tomatoes soggy.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving, assuming 4 servings)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

• Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes? While green tomatoes are preferred for their firm texture and tangy flavor, you can use ripe tomatoes. However, ripe tomatoes may be too soft and can become mushy during frying.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free bread crumbs to make a gluten-free version of this dish.
• What can I serve with Fried Green Tomatoes? Fried Green Tomatoes are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch or remoulade, and can also be served alongside Southern staples such as cornbread, collard greens, or fried chicken.

Conclusion

Fried Green Tomatoes are a quintessential Southern delicacy that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food. The process of breading and frying green tomatoes creates a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with their natural tartness. This dish not only serves as a tasty appetizer or side dish but also as a great conversation starter at gatherings. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture of this classic recipe. Whether you’re preparing a special meal or simply indulging in a nostalgic treat, Fried Green Tomatoes promise a delightful culinary experience that will leave you and your guests asking for more. Enjoy the crispy perfection and savor every bite of this delicious Southern favorite!