Grandma'S Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, savory fried green tomatoes with a crunchy coating, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for those who enjoy tangy, flavorful Southern-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, corn meal, salt, and pepper in a pie plate; dip tomato slices, covering both sides.
- Pour vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet; over medium heat, fry slices, a few at a time, until golden brown on both sides and heated through.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Add more oil to skillet if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, try adding a tablespoon of baking powder to the flour mixture. You can substitute the cornmeal with crushed crackers for a different texture. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid sogginess; a drop of batter should sizzle immediately. Use fresh, firm green tomatoes for the best results. For a flavorful twist, consider seasoning the flour with some Cajun spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fried green tomatoes as an appetizer or side dish, topped with a dollop of remoulade or your favorite dipping sauce. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a side to grilled meats. For a delightful meal, enjoy them alongside Sledge Hammer or with a slice of warm cornbread for a true Southern experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Fried Green Tomatoes contains roughly 301 calories, with 2g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2263mg per serving (98% 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?
While you can use ripe tomatoes, they will not provide the same tart flavor and firm texture that green tomatoes offer. Fried green tomatoes have a distinct taste that is hard to replicate with ripe varieties, so it's best to stick with green tomatoes for this recipe.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread or batter into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready for frying. If it sinks and does nothing, let the oil heat a bit longer. Properly heated oil ensures a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the cornmeal you use is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but you'll still enjoy delicious fried green tomatoes.
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).