World’s Best Recipe for Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes: A Southern Classic with a Crispy Twist

Fried green tomatoes are more than just a Southern staple; they’re a culinary delight that brings together tangy, unripe tomatoes and a crispy golden coating for a flavor combination that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of Southern cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, this recipe will guide you step-by-step in creating the perfect fried green tomatoes.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

Anyone with a penchant for trying unique dishes with bold flavors will find these fried green tomatoes especially delightful. They are perfect for food enthusiasts who enjoy exploring different textures and tastes.

Whether you’re hosting a Southern-themed dinner party, looking for a unique appetizer, or simply want to add a crispy element to your meal, this recipe is an excellent choice.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To make these fried green tomatoes, ensure you have the following items ready:

• Large Skillet: For frying the tomatoes to a perfect golden brown.
• Medium-Size Bowl: For mixing wet ingredients.
• Plates for Coating: You’ll need separate plates for flour and the cornmeal-breadcrumb mixture.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: These will help you safely flip and remove the tomatoes from the hot oil.
• Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the fried tomatoes.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance your fried green tomatoes experience, consider these food and drink pairings:

• Southern-Style Barbecue: The crispy acidity of the tomatoes pairs wonderfully with rich, smoky barbecue flavors.
• Refreshing Salad: Complement the warmth of fried tomatoes with a cool, crisp salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Opt for a classic Southern sweet tea or a refreshing lemonade to balance the richness of the fried dish.

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, you’ll need:

• 4 large green tomatoes
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornmeal
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Vegetable oil (about 1 quart for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:

• Slice the green tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds, discarding the ends.

1. Set Up Coating Stations:

• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
• Spread flour on a plate for the initial coating.
• On another plate, combine cornmeal, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper for the final coating.

1. Coating Process:

• Dip each tomato slice first in flour, shaking off excess.
• Submerge in the egg mixture.
• Dredge in the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.

1. Frying:

• Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Test oil readiness by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle and brown.
• Fry tomato slices in batches, without crowding, until each side is golden brown, typically 2-3 minutes per side.
• Use tongs to flip each slice carefully.

1. Drain and Serve:

• Transfer the fried tomatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
• Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy Your Creation

Fried green tomatoes are a testament to the simplicity and beauty of Southern cooking. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by the juicy tang of green tomatoes, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.