Mama'S Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, golden fried green tomatoes with a flavorful batter, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for Southern-inspired meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Dip the green tomato slices into the batter until well coated.
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a skillet to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the coated tomato slices in the hot oil until golden brown, turning once during cooking.
- Remove from oil and drain briefly. Serve with buttermilk or Ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using Panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for the coating. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fried green tomatoes as an appetizer or side dish alongside a refreshing salad or as part of a Southern-style meal. They pair beautifully with buttermilk or Ranch dressing for dipping, and you can also enjoy them with a side of Microwave Tomato Soup Cake for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried green tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again, instead of using a microwave which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Fried Green Tomatoes contains roughly 610 calories, with 13g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 854mg per serving (37% 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 are too soft and juicy for frying, and they won't hold their shape well. Green tomatoes have a firmer texture and a tart flavor that makes them ideal for frying. If you can't find green tomatoes, try using unripe heirloom varieties as a substitute.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, like vegetable oil or canola oil, are best for frying. They allow the flavor of the tomatoes to shine without overpowering them. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and can burn quickly.
Can I make these in advance and reheat them?
Yes, you can prepare the fried green tomatoes in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven for a crispy texture, rather than in the microwave, which can make them soggy.
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).