Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe – Easy and Crispy Southern Classic
Prep time : 30mins | 3-4 Servings
If you’ve never tried fried green tomatoes recipe, you’re in for a real treat. These crispy, golden slices are a Southern favorite. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and have a tangy flavor that makes them truly unique.
In this post, I’ll show you how to make the best fried green tomatoes recipe at home with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is always a hit!
What Are Fried Green Tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes are made from unripe, firm green tomatoes. They’re sliced, dipped in a seasoned coating, and fried until perfectly crispy.
They became super popular after the movie Fried Green Tomatoes came out, but Southerners have loved them for generations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple things you probably already have at home.
For the tomatoes:
3 large green tomatoes (unripe)
A little salt
A little pepper
Coating:
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
½ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
½ cup yellow cornmeal
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko is best)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Frying:
Vegetable oil (enough to fill your pan about ½ inch)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Fried Green Tomatoes
1. Slice and Salt the Tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes and slice them about ¼ inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. This helps remove some of the moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set Up a Breading Station
Use three bowls:
1: Flour
2: Eggs + buttermilk (whisk them together)
3: Mix cornmeal, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne
3. Coat the Tomato Slices
Dip each tomato slice into the flour first, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mix. Make sure both sides are well coated.
4. Fry the Tomatoes
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot (you can test with a breadcrumb—it should sizzle), carefully place in 3–4 slices at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Drain and Serve
Place fried tomatoes on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up extra oil. Sprinkle with a little more salt while they’re hot if you like.
Tips for the Best Fried Green Tomatoes
Use firm green tomatoes. If they’re too soft or ripe, they’ll fall apart when frying.
Don’t skip salting. This helps keep them crispy.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Keep oil hot but not smoking. Around 350°F (175°C) is perfect.
How to Serve Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are super flexible. Here are a few tasty ways to enjoy them:
With dipping sauce: Try ranch, spicy mayo, or a creamy garlic dip.
In a sandwich: Add to a BLT or burger.
With breakfast: Pair with eggs, bacon, and toast.
As a side: Great with grilled chicken, barbecue, or fish.
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Nutrition Facts
*Per serving of Fried Green Tomatoes (approx. 3–4 slices)
- Calories250 kcal
- Protein5 g
- Carbs25 g
- Fat14 g
- Saturated Fat2 g
- Cholesterol35 mg
- Sodium310 mg
- Fiber2 g
FAQs
Q1. Can I use red tomatoes?
- Nope. Red tomatoes are too soft and juicy. You need green, unripe tomatoes for this recipe to work well.
Q2. Can I bake them instead of frying?
- Yes, you can! Spray with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q3. What kind of oil is best?
- Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil or something that can handle high heat.
Final Thoughts
This fried green tomatoes recipe is simple, fun, and seriously delicious. Whether you’re new to Southern food or grew up with it, this dish is a great way to enjoy something different.
Why not try it this weekend?
👉 If you do, leave a comment below and tell us how it turned out!
📸 And if you’re on Instagram, tag us at @TasteSpur We’d love to see your version!
