Here’s a Southern classic: Fried Green Tomatoes — tangy, crispy, and golden brown. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
🍅🔥 Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
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3–4 medium green tomatoes (firm and unripe)
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Salt, to taste
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup cornmeal (or use ½ cornmeal, ½ breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
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1/2 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut)
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prep the Tomatoes:
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Slice green tomatoes into 1/4- to 1/3-inch thick rounds.
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Lay slices on paper towels and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
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In one shallow bowl: mix flour with a little salt and pepper.
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In a second bowl: whisk eggs with buttermilk.
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In a third bowl: mix cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, and more salt and pepper.
3. Bread the Tomatoes:
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Dredge each tomato slice in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, then coat in the cornmeal mixture. Press gently to adhere.
4. Fry:
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Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F if using a thermometer).
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Fry tomatoes in batches 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
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Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
5. Serve:
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Serve warm with ranch, remoulade, or a spicy mayo.
🍽️ Tips:
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Don’t overcrowd the skillet or they’ll steam, not crisp.
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Add a pinch of cayenne to the cornmeal for a little kick.
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Leftovers? Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.