Welcome to a Southern classic that you won’t want to miss! This Southern Fried Green Tomatoes recipe is the perfect combination of tangy, crispy, and savory. Whether you're looking to recreate a nostalgic favorite or trying something new, these fried green tomatoes are sure to be a hit. Read on to learn how to make this iconic dish, step-by-step, with tips on perfecting your frying technique and ideas for serving. Let’s dive in!

What Are Southern Fried Green Tomatoes?
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, known for their crispy exterior and tangy flavor. This dish is traditionally made using firm, unripened green tomatoes that are sliced, coated in a seasoned breading, and fried until golden brown. The result is a deliciously crunchy treat with a unique balance of flavors that make it a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Although it originated in the South, its popularity has spread across the country, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys comfort food.
Ingredients List for Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
To create the perfect Southern Fried Green Tomatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium (unripened) green tomatoes: Ensure they are firm and bright green, as this will give you the best texture and flavor.
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour): Self-rising flour adds a slight lift to the breading, but all-purpose flour works just as well.
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal: This provides the characteristic crunch and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Creole Cajun seasoning: This spice blend adds a depth of flavor with a kick of heat. You can use store-bought or make your own.
- 2 large eggs: The eggs help the breading adhere to the tomatoes.
- ½ cup whole buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy richness and helps create a thick coating.
- Hot sauce, to taste: Louisiana-style hot sauce is traditional, but you can use your favorite. It adds a nice heat to the dish.
- Peanut oil, for frying: Peanut oil is ideal for frying due to its high smoke point, but any high smoke-point oil like canola or vegetable oil will work.
- Flaky salt, for garnishing (optional): This is for finishing the dish with a burst of flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
This Southern Fried Green Tomatoes recipe is quite versatile, and you can make substitutions or variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is gluten-free.
- Vegan Variation: Substitute the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the hot sauce and Creole Cajun seasoning. Alternatively, increase these for a spicier kick.
- Different Oils: While peanut oil is preferred for its flavor and frying capability, you can use other oils like canola, vegetable, or even avocado oil.
- Alternative Seasonings: Swap out Creole Cajun seasoning for Old Bay, Italian seasoning, or your favorite spice mix for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly fried green tomatoes:

- Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by washing the green tomatoes under cold water. Slice each tomato into ½-inch thick slices. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, combine the flour and Creole Cajun seasoning. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce. In a third shallow bowl, place the cornmeal.
- Bread the Tomatoes: Dredge each tomato slice in the flour mixture, coating both sides. Next, dip the floured tomato slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, press the tomato slice into the cornmeal, coating both sides and shaking off any excess.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough peanut oil into a large skillet to reach about ½-inch up the sides. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread—if it sizzles and turns golden, the oil is ready.
- Fry the Tomatoes: Carefully place a few tomato slices into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tomatoes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat: Continue frying the remaining tomato slices in batches. Keep the cooked tomatoes warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the fried green tomatoes with flaky salt if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are relatively simple to make, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Overripe Tomatoes: The key to great fried green tomatoes is using firm, unripened green tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes will be too soft and release too much moisture during frying, resulting in soggy tomatoes.
- Skipping the Drying Step: It’s important to pat the tomato slices dry before breading. Excess moisture can prevent the breading from adhering properly and can cause splattering during frying.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many tomato slices at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking and soggy tomatoes. Fry in batches and keep the oil hot.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t be afraid to season your flour and cornmeal mixture generously. The tomatoes themselves are quite mild, so they need the added flavor from the seasonings.
- Using Low-Quality Oil: Use a high smoke-point oil like peanut oil for the best frying results. Low-quality oil can break down at high temperatures, affecting the flavor and texture of the tomatoes.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes can be enjoyed in many ways, whether as a simple snack or part of a larger meal. Here are some tips on how to serve and present them:
How to Serve Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
- As an Appetizer: Serve the fried green tomatoes with a dipping sauce like remoulade, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli. They make an excellent starter for any Southern-inspired meal.
- In a Sandwich: Layer the fried green tomatoes on a sandwich with lettuce, bacon, and a smear of mayonnaise for a Southern BLT with a twist.
- As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside fried chicken, grilled meats, or a hearty salad for a delicious side dish that complements a variety of flavors.
- With Breakfast: Pair them with eggs, bacon, and grits for a Southern-style breakfast that’s sure to satisfy.
Presentation Ideas for Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
- On a Platter: Arrange the fried green tomatoes on a large platter with a small bowl of dipping sauce in the center. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Stacked: Stack the fried tomatoes on a plate, alternating with slices of fresh mozzarella or goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet presentation.
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the fried tomatoes on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh and tangy salad.
- In a Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the fried tomatoes directly in a cast iron skillet, garnished with flaky salt and fresh herbs.
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe Tips
To ensure your Southern Fried Green Tomatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly affect the final dish. Use fresh, firm green tomatoes and high-quality oil for frying.
- Maintain the Oil Temperature: Monitor the oil temperature with a thermometer to keep it at a consistent 350°F (175°C). If the oil gets too hot, the breading can burn before the tomatoes are cooked through; if it’s too cool, the tomatoes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Serve Immediately: Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed right after frying when they’re hot and crispy. If you need to hold them for a short time, keep them in a warm oven, but avoid covering them, as this can make them soggy.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasoning in your flour and cornmeal mixture. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
A: It’s best to use firm, green tomatoes for this recipe. Ripe tomatoes are too soft and will not hold up well to frying.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry the green tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can bake them as a healthier alternative. Place the breaded tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven to regain some of the crispiness.
Q: What can I serve with Southern Fried Green Tomatoes?
A: They pair well with a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or a fresh salad. They also make a great topping for burgers or sandwiches.
Q: Can I freeze fried green tomatoes?
A: While you can freeze them, they won’t retain their crispy texture after thawing and reheating. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes are a true Southern delicacy that combines simplicity with bold flavors. With the right ingredients and a little attention to detail, you can recreate this classic dish at home with ease. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these fried green tomatoes are sure to impress. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the taste of the South in your own kitchen!
PrintSouthern Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Discover the ultimate Southern Fried Green Tomatoes recipe, featuring green tomatoes coated in a flavorful mixture of flour, cornmeal, and Creole seasoning, then fried to crispy perfection. This dish offers a delightful balance of tangy and spicy flavors, making it an authentic Southern treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 medium (unripened) green tomatoes, sliced ½-inch thick
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon Creole Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole buttermilk
- Hot sauce, to taste (Louisiana-style recommended)
- Peanut oil (or any high smoke-point oil) for frying
- Flaky salt, for garnishing (optional)
Instructions
- Slice green tomatoes into ½-inch thick rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and Creole seasoning.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
- Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture, ensuring each slice is fully coated.
- Heat peanut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the coated tomato slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Garnish with flaky salt if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more hot sauce or increase the amount of Creole seasoning.
- Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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