Grandmother Sauls' Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, savory fried green tomatoes with a crunchy cornmeal coating, perfect as a side or appetizer for those who enjoy tangy, hearty flavors with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices.
- Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper.
- Cover the seasoned slices with cornmeal, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat bacon drippings in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the coated tomato slices slowly in the hot bacon drippings until browned on one side.
- Turn the slices and cook until evenly browned and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly crispy fried green tomatoes, choose firm, unripe tomatoes that are bright green. If you're out of cornmeal, you can use breadcrumbs or a mixture of flour and cornmeal for a different texture. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the tomatoes to prevent them from becoming soggy. If you want to add flavor, consider seasoning the cornmeal with paprika or cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fried green tomatoes as an appetizer or side dish alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or a homemade Bacon Salad Dressing. They pair beautifully with sandwiches, particularly as a topping for a Sandwich In A Bun. Consider serving them with a fresh salad or alongside grilled meats for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother Sauls' Fried Green Tomatoes contains roughly 604 calories, with 16g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% 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 ones?
While ripe tomatoes can be used, they won't have the same firm texture and tartness that green tomatoes provide. Ripe tomatoes may become mushy when fried, so it's best to stick with firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best results.
What type of oil should I use for frying?
Bacon drippings give a rich flavor to the fried green tomatoes, but you can also use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point to ensure they fry well without burning.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato slices and coat them in cornmeal ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
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).