Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern delicacy, often enjoyed as a crispy and tangy appetizer or side dish. This culinary treat features unripe green tomatoes, coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection. Their unique flavor and texture make them a favorite among food enthusiasts. But the question remains: Are fried green tomatoes a hit or a miss for you? Let’s dive into the debate and explore what makes this dish a cherished favorite for some and an acquired taste for others.
Ingredients:
- 4 large green tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and let them sit on a paper towel for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Set Up Dredging Station:
- Place the flour in one shallow dish.
- In a second shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper.
- In a third dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Dredge the Tomatoes:
- Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel.
- Dredge each tomato slice in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured tomato slice into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the tomato slice in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Tomatoes:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4-inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Working in batches, carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fried tomatoes with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve:
- Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to a main meal.
Spicy Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 large green tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Remoulade Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped capers
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Follow the same steps as in the classic recipe to slice, salt, and drain the tomatoes.
- Set Up Dredging Station:
- In one shallow dish, place the flour.
- Combine the cornmeal, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in a second dish.
- In a third dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Dredge the Tomatoes:
- Follow the same dredging process as in the classic recipe.
- Fry the Tomatoes:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the coated tomato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Remoulade Sauce:
- Combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, capers, parsley, hot sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, with the remoulade sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy these delicious fried green tomatoes as a savory treat or a unique appetizer for your next gathering!
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