World’s Best Recipe for Fried Green Tomatoes

If you’re craving a classic Southern dish that’s both tangy and crunchy, fried green tomatoes are the perfect choice.

This beloved recipe blends the tartness of green tomatoes with a crispy coating, making it a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s sure to keep you coming back for more. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make these fried green tomatoes step-by-step, so grab your apron and let’s get started!

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is for anyone who loves the unique flavor of green tomatoes combined with a crispy texture.

Whether you’re a Southern food enthusiast or looking to try something new, these fried green tomatoes will hit the spot. They’re ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or even as a tasty snack for yourself.

Why You’ll Love this recipe

Fried green tomatoes are a Southern favorite for a reason. The tangy, slightly sour tomatoes paired with a crunchy, golden-brown crust create an irresistible mix of flavors and textures.

They’re versatile enough to enjoy on their own, with a dipping sauce, or even as a sandwich topping. Best of all, they’re easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Serves: 4

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Sharp knife
• 3 shallow bowls or plates
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large skillet or cast iron pan
• Paper towels
• Tongs or slotted spatula

Ingredients:

• 4 large green tomatoes
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornmeal
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Slice the Tomatoes

Give the green tomatoes a quick rinse and pat them dry. Slice into 1/2-inch rounds, discarding the tops and bottoms. Lay the slices on a paper towel and lightly sprinkle with a bit of salt—this helps draw out moisture for a crispier fry. Let them sit while you prep your coatings.

2. Set Up the Dredging Stations

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Set aside. On a separate plate, spread out the flour. On a third plate, combine the cornmeal, breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Tomato Slices

Working one slice at a time, dredge each tomato in flour (shake off excess), dip it into the egg mixture, then coat generously in the cornmeal-breadcrumb mix. Press gently to help the coating stick. Set the coated slices aside on a tray.

4. Fry to Perfection:

Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat. To test the oil, drop in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles right away, you’re ready to fry. Add the tomatoes in batches, avoiding overcrowding.

Fry each slice for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Use tongs or a slotted spatula to transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair beautifully with ranch, remoulade, or a spicy aioli.

Pro Tips for the best results

• Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: For ultra-crispy tomatoes, repeat the egg and crumb coating step one more time.
• Let Them Rest Before Frying: After coating, let the slices sit for 5–10 minutes—this helps the breading adhere better during frying.
• Use Cast Iron If You Have It: A cast iron skillet holds heat better and helps get that perfect golden crust.
• Add a Dash of Hot Sauce to the Egg Mix: For a little kick that surprises in the best way!
• Try Air-Frying: If you’re cutting back on oil, air-fry at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Food and Drink Pairings

For a full Southern meal, consider pairing your fried green tomatoes with:

• Southern Barbecue: Serve with ribs or pulled pork for an authentic Southern experience.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the fried tomatoes.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Wash it all down with a cold glass of sweet tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

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