Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes are a classic Southern dish, known for their crispy exterior and tangy, tender interior. This recipe features thick slices of green tomatoes coated in a crispy breading made from a combination of flour, cornmeal, and breadcrumbs. The tomatoes are then fried until golden brown in vegetable oil, resulting in a deliciously crunchy texture with a burst of fresh tomato flavor in every bite. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack, Fried Green Tomatoes are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients:

• Green Tomatoes: Firm, unripe tomatoes are sliced and used for their tart flavor and firm texture.
• Eggs: Used to create a binding mixture with milk for coating the tomatoes.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the egg mixture for better adherence to the tomatoes.
• All-Purpose Flour: Coats the tomatoes and helps the breading adhere to the surface.
• Cornmeal: Adds texture and crunch to the breading.
• Bread Crumbs: Provide additional texture and help create a crispy coating.
• Coarse Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavor of the breading.
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the breading.
• Vegetable Oil: Used for frying the tomatoes to a golden brown crispiness.

How To Make It:

1. Slice Tomatoes: Cut the green tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices, discarding the ends.
2. Prepare Coating: Whisk together eggs and milk in a bowl. Place flour on a plate and mix cornmeal, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper on another plate.
3. Coat Tomatoes: Dip each tomato slice into the flour to coat, then dip into the egg and milk mixture, and finally dredge in the breadcrumb mixture to coat completely.
4. Fry Tomatoes: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated tomato slices in batches, ensuring they do not touch each other in the skillet. Fry until golden brown on both sides, then drain on paper towels.

Tips:

• Use firm green tomatoes that are not fully ripe for the best texture and flavor.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the tomatoes to ensure they fry evenly and become crispy.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying the tomatoes, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tomatoes.
• Serve the Fried Green Tomatoes immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best taste and texture.
• These tomatoes are delicious on their own or served with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or remoulade.