Fried Tomato Slices
Fried tomato slices offer a crispy, savory treat with a hint of richness from the egg and cracker coating. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes complemented by a golden crunch. Ideal for quick, satisfying bites for all tomato lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes into 3/4 inch thick slices.
- Combine the beaten egg and milk in a shallow dish.
- Dip each tomato slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it's coated.
- Then dredge the coated tomato slices in cracker crumbs.
- Melt the lard, butter, or margarine in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the coated tomato slices until they are browned on both sides, turning once.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cracker crumbs. If you don't have lard, you can substitute with vegetable oil or butter. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the tomato slices to achieve a crispy texture. For a lighter version, use whole wheat crackers or gluten-free options. This dish is perfect as a side for Herbed Potato Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried tomato slices hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Consider serving alongside a refreshing salad, such as Creamy Lime Salad, for a complementary dish. They're also great as a topping for burgers or sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried tomato slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Tomato Slices contains roughly 437 calories, with 6g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 743mg per serving (32% 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 use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, while firm almost ripe tomatoes are ideal, you can experiment with other varieties such as beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes. Just ensure they are not overly ripe to maintain their structure during frying.
What can I use if I don't have cracker crumbs?
If you don't have cracker crumbs, you can substitute them with breadcrumbs or panko for a similar crunchy texture. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or tortilla chips can add a unique flavor twist.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk alternative. For frying, opt for coconut oil or vegetable oil instead of lard.
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).