General Custer'S Favorite Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes topped with rich white gravy offer a crispy, tangy flavor perfect for southern comfort food lovers and appetizer enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and slice green tomatoes.
- Dip the tomato slices in beaten egg.
- Then coat them in corn meal.
- Fry the coated tomato slices in a skillet until tender and golden brown.
- Serve topped with white gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, select firm green tomatoes and slice them about 1/4 inch thick. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the corn meal. You can substitute the white gravy with ranch dressing for a different flavor profile. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy exterior.
Serving Suggestions
These fried green tomatoes are delicious served as an appetizer or side dish. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside D.J.'S Cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal. They also work well as a unique topping for burgers or sandwiches. For a complete meal, consider a side of Fruited Macaroni Salad Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of General Custer'S Favorite Fried Green Tomatoes contains roughly 283 calories, with 3g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 548mg per serving (24% 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 ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
Ripe tomatoes won't yield the same crisp texture and tangy flavor as green tomatoes. They may become mushy when fried. For best results, stick with firm green tomatoes, which are perfect for frying due to their lower sugar content and firmer flesh.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil is ideal for frying fried green tomatoes, as they have a high smoke point and impart a nice flavor. Olive oil can also be used, but it's best to choose a light variety to avoid overpowering the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the white gravy you use is made without meat products. You can also make a simple vegetarian gravy using vegetable broth, flour, and milk for a delightful pairing.
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).