17 September 2020, by Benedict Vanheems
Making fried green tomatoes may seem like a simple task, but like any beloved dish, there are many variations, and getting it just right can be tricky. I was reminded of this when I saw an American TikTok tutorial on making “British tea”—a cringe-worthy version that sparked outrage across the UK for its many missteps. Similarly, when diving into a Southern classic like fried green tomatoes, I tread carefully. My goal is simply to offer a delicious way to use up the late-summer abundance of firm, green tomatoes.
The Glut-Busting Solution: Fried Green Tomatoes
As summer comes to an end, gardeners often find themselves racing against time to ripen the last tomato trusses. But even if your tomatoes never fully ripen, don’t worry—fried green tomatoes are the perfect solution.
The secret to this dish is in the preparation. By frying firm, under-ripe tomatoes, you turn a potentially disappointing harvest into a crunchy, flavorful treat. The cornmeal coating crisps up perfectly, creating a golden, irresistible finish. If you’re in the UK and struggling to find cornmeal, look in the “world foods” section of your local supermarket, or simply use polenta, which is essentially the same thing.
Key Ingredients
To make fried green tomatoes, you will need:
- 3 medium-sized green tomatoes
- 65g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
- 65g (1/2 cup) cornmeal or polenta
- 2 beaten eggs
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable or sunflower oil
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep the Tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes into half-centimeter thick rounds, and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Coating Stations: In three separate bowls, place:
- Half the flour in one bowl.
- The beaten eggs in another.
- The remaining flour mixed with cornmeal (and optional cayenne pepper for extra heat) in the third.
- Coat the Tomatoes: Dust each tomato slice with flour, shaking off excess. Then dip the slices into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the slices thoroughly with the cornmeal mixture.
- Fry the Tomatoes: Heat about half a centimeter of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tomato slices, frying until golden and crisp on each side—about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying. Remove the cooked slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, keeping them warm in a low oven.
Enjoying Your Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a versatile treat. Serve them as a side dish alongside other Southern staples like fried chicken or shrimp. Alternatively, they make a delicious snack on their own. For an extra kick, drizzle them with lime juice, add a dash of hot sauce, and dip them into a tangy salsa or creamy remoulade sauce.
This simple, crispy dish is a great way to enjoy the end-of-season tomato bounty and bring a taste of Southern comfort to your table.