South Jersey Tomatoes And Gravy
South Jersey Tomatoes And Gravy features tender fried Jersey tomatoes topped with a savory, creamy gravy, perfect for a comforting Southern-inspired meal with fresh, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin tomatoes and slice them.
- Dip sliced tomatoes in seasoned flour with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a fry pan over low-medium heat.
- Place floured tomatoes in the fry pan with butter.
- Sprinkle sugar on tomatoes and cook slowly until tender and fried.
- Remove fried tomatoes from the pan and set aside.
- Add milk and flour to the fry pan to make gravy.
- Stir slowly until the gravy thickens.
- Place the fried tomatoes on a platter and pour the gravy over them.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider using a combination of cornmeal and flour for the coating. If Jersey tomatoes aren't available, any ripe tomatoes will work, though the flavor may vary slightly. Adjust the sugar to your taste; some prefer it sweeter. For added flavor, you could incorporate herbs like basil or oregano into the flour mixture. This dish pairs beautifully with Deep South Ovenly Fried Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomatoes and gravy over warm biscuits or cornbread for a hearty meal. This dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a topping for rice. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or some sautéed greens. It also works well with American recipes like Billionaire's Pie for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tomatoes and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Stir gently until warmed through; avoid overheating to prevent the tomatoes from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Jersey Tomatoes And Gravy contains roughly 196 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh Jersey tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid excessive moisture. The flavor may differ, so consider adding herbs to enhance the taste.
What can I substitute for Heritage milk in the gravy?
If Heritage milk is unavailable, whole milk or half-and-half can be used as substitutes. For a lighter option, almond milk or oat milk can work, but be aware that they may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust the seasoning as needed since non-dairy milks can be less rich.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this dish vegan, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or soy milk, and use a vegan butter replacement for frying the tomatoes. Ensure your flour is also suitable for vegan diets. The flavor will still be delicious with these adjustments!
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).