Fried Tomato Cakes
Fried Tomato Cakes are crispy, savory bites bursting with the tangy flavor of crushed tomatoes and green peppers, coated in crunchy bread crumbs. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they suit anyone craving a flavorful vegetarian dish with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except bread crumbs in a large bowl.
- Add just enough bread crumbs to make the mixture stiff enough to drop by tablespoonfuls into hot oil.
- Fry the cakes until browned on both sides.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. If you don't have Italian style bread crumbs, regular plain bread crumbs will work, but you might want to enhance the flavor with Italian seasoning. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture. These fried tomato cakes are a great way to use up leftover tomatoes from your garden or a farmer's market haul.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fried tomato cakes hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a side salad or as a topping on a toasted bun for a vegetarian burger. Consider dipping them in a tangy yogurt sauce or marinara for extra zest. They also make a delightful appetizer for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried tomato cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy and lose their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Tomato Cakes contains roughly 46 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these fried tomato cakes?
Yes, you can freeze fried tomato cakes! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F until heated through and crispy.
What can I substitute for crushed tomatoes?
If you don't have crushed tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes or even tomato puree as a substitute. Just be mindful that diced tomatoes may result in a chunkier texture, while tomato puree will make the mixture smoother. Adjust the amount of breadcrumbs accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make these cakes gluten-free?
To make these fried tomato cakes gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or finely ground gluten-free oats. Make sure to check that the other ingredients, like any seasonings or sauces, are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).