Fried Green Tomatoes are a classic Southern-style dish with a crispy golden coating and a tender, slightly tangy tomato center. They are simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or summer snack.
Green tomatoes are the best choice because they are firm and hold their shape while frying. You can also use red tomatoes, but make sure they are not too ripe, or they may become soft and mushy during cooking.
Serve these crispy tomatoes warm with a cold glass of iced tea, ranch dressing, remoulade sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
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
Instructions
Step 1: Slice the Tomatoes
Slice the green tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices. Discard the ends.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
Place the flour on a plate.
In a separate plate or shallow bowl, mix together the cornmeal, bread crumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Coat the Tomatoes
Dip each tomato slice into the flour first, coating both sides.
Next, dip the floured tomato slice into the egg and milk mixture.
Finally, dredge it in the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet until there is about 1/2 inch of oil in the pan.
Heat the oil over medium heat until hot.
Step 6: Fry the Tomatoes
Place the coated tomato slices into the skillet in batches of 4 or 5, depending on the size of your pan.
Do not overcrowd the skillet. The tomato slices should not touch each other.
Fry until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and cook the other side until crisp and golden.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Remove the fried tomatoes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Fried Green Tomatoes taste delicious with:
- Ranch dressing
- Remoulade sauce
- Spicy mayo
- Garlic aioli
- Hot sauce
- Fresh salad
- Iced tea
Tips for the Best Fried Green Tomatoes
Use firm green tomatoes for the best texture. Soft or overripe tomatoes can become mushy when fried.
Make sure the oil is hot before adding the tomatoes. If the oil is too cool, the coating may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Fry in small batches so the tomatoes cook evenly and stay crispy.
For extra crunch, add a little more cornmeal to the coating mixture.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Storage
Fried Green Tomatoes are best served fresh and hot. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help bring back some of the crispiness.
Final Thoughts
These Best Fried Green Tomatoes are crispy, golden, and full of classic Southern flavor. With a simple cornmeal and breadcrumb coating, they make a delicious appetizer, side dish, or summer treat that is easy to prepare and always satisfying.
