- 4 large green tomatoes, sliced 1/2 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more for seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional for serving: hot sauce, ranch dressing, or remoulade sauce
Equipment
- 3 shallow bowls
- 1 large skillet
- Paper towels
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Wash the green tomatoes and slice them into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
- Season both sides of the tomato slices with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Dredge the Tomatoes
- In the first shallow bowl, mix the flour with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In the second bowl, beat the eggs and milk together.
- In the third bowl, combine the cornmeal and breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each tomato slice in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, then coat with the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Fry the Tomatoes
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, fry the tomato slices in batches, not overcrowding the skillet, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried tomatoes to a cooling rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, optionally with your choice of hot sauce, ranch dressing, or remoulade sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfection
- Choose firm green tomatoes, as they hold up better during frying.
- Let the coated tomato slices sit for 5-10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F for the best results.
Conclusion
Fried green tomatoes are more than just a dish; they’re a celebration of Southern cuisine’s simplicity and flavor. This recipe offers a golden, crispy exterior with a tangy, juicy interior that’s sure to delight any palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook, mastering this dish will bring a piece of Southern charm to your table.
Visual Guide
Note: As requested, a visual guide would significantly enhance this recipe. Including step-by-step photos, a video tutorial of the frying process, and beautifully styled shots of the finished dish would make this recipe even more engaging. Unfortunately, I can’t provide images or videos directly, but incorporating such visuals on your platform will undoubtedly attract and retain visitors’ attention.
Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and may it bring a taste of the South to your kitchen, encouraging visitors to linger and explore more of your culinary creations.