How to make perfect fried green tomatoes

You may have seen the 1987 film Fried Green Tomatoes, but have you ever tasted them? With deep roots in the American South, it's believed that fried green tomatoes became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in Southern states like Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. 

© The Grosby Group

Like most breaded dishes, something about fried green tomatoes hits just the right spot—crispy, savory, and with the perfect tang from the green tomatoes themselves. If you’re craving a tasty and easy-to-make dish, look no further. Serve it with a flavorful dipping sauce, and you'll impress your guests (or yourself) with a comfort food with vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. 

What are green tomatoes?

© Panther Media GmbH

Green tomatoes are just unripe tomatoes, picked before they turn red. They have a firmer texture and tangy flavor that is perfect for frying. Unlike their red counterparts, they hold their shape and deliver a crisp bite. They are the perfect appetizer or side dish. 

Ingredients 

• 4 green tomatoes
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

© The Grosby Group

Step-by-Step Guide 

1. Start by washing and slicing your green tomatoes. Aim for about 1/2-inch-thick slices, ensuring they’re even for uniform frying.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. 
3. In a separate bowl, mix the beaten eggs with buttermilk. 
4. Dip each tomato slice in the egg mixture, making sure it's fully coated. 
5. Place the tomato in the flour mixture and gently press to coat both sides. You can shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. 
7. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tomato slices, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. 
8. Fry the tomatoes for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain and serve: Once fried, place the tomatoes on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. 

Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Air Fryer option: If you want to use an air fryer without all the oil, follow the first five steps, then:

1.  Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C).
2. Spray the basket with a little oil to prevent sticking and to help the tomatoes crisp up.
3. Arrange the coated tomatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren't overlapping.
4. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

Dipping Sauce 

For a tangy and easy dip, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir well and serve alongside your crispy fried green tomatoes for that perfect finishing touch!

© Getty