Frying Green Tomatoes: Deep Fryer Tips And Tricks

Frying green tomatoes is a popular dish, especially in the South. It is a beloved appetizer that is crunchy, tangy, and easy to make. The recipe involves dredging slices of green tomato in a cornmeal mixture and frying them until golden brown. The dish can be served fresh, drizzled with hot sauce, dipped in a savory dressing, or used to make a fried green tomato BLT. While it is traditionally fried in a skillet, green tomatoes can also be cooked in an air fryer or deep fryer.

How to prepare the tomatoes for frying

Preparing the tomatoes for frying is a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare green tomatoes for frying:

Firstly, select the right tomatoes. For frying, you want to choose unripe green tomatoes that are still firm. Look for large, round tomatoes that are completely green and solid to the touch. Avoid tomatoes that are starting to ripen and turn red, as they will be too soft and may fall apart during the frying process.

Once you have selected your tomatoes, cut them into slices. The recommended thickness for the slices is between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. This will help prevent the batter from cracking and falling off during frying. If you like, you can sprinkle a tiny pinch of sugar on each slice to reduce any lingering bitterness.

After slicing, you can optionally sprinkle the tomato slices with salt and let them stand for a few minutes. This step can help draw out excess liquid and improve the flavour. However, if your tomato slices are already quite thin, you may choose to skip this step as it may not be necessary.

Now it's time to set up your dredging station. You will need three shallow bowls or plates for this step. In the first bowl, place some plain flour. You can also add some seasonings to the flour if desired, such as Cajun seasoning or black pepper. The second bowl should contain a mixture of egg and buttermilk. You can also add a little milk if you don't have buttermilk. The third bowl will contain the final coating, which is a mixture of cornmeal, breadcrumbs, and optional seasonings such as salt and pepper.

Take each tomato slice and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tomato slice in the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Place the coated tomato slices on a baking sheet or plate and let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will allow the coating to absorb and help it stay on during frying.

Your tomatoes are now ready to be fried! You can use a deep fryer, skillet, or cast-iron skillet for frying, depending on your preference. Heat your oil to around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit, and fry the tomatoes in batches until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can affect the cooking process.

By following these steps, you will have perfectly prepared green tomatoes that are ready for frying. Enjoy!

How to prepare the breading

Preparing the breading for fried green tomatoes is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare the breading for this delicious Southern classic:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First, you'll need to gather your ingredients for the breading. The exact quantities may vary depending on the recipe you are following, but the basic ingredients typically include all-purpose flour, cornmeal, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. You can also add in spices like cayenne, smoked paprika, or garlic powder to give your breading a little extra kick.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workstation

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls or pans. In the first bowl, place your plain flour. In the second bowl, whisk together your egg and buttermilk. You can also add a little milk if you don't have buttermilk. In the third bowl, combine your cornmeal, breadcrumbs, and any desired seasonings. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Dredge the Tomatoes

Take your sliced green tomatoes and dredge them in the flour first, making sure they are evenly coated. Then, dip them into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press both sides of the tomato slices into the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are completely coated.

Step 4: Let the Breading Set

Once your tomatoes are coated, it's important to let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the breading to absorb the moisture from the egg wash and form a sturdy coating around the tomatoes. Place the coated tomatoes on a baking sheet or plate and let them sit for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 5: Double-Dredge (Optional)

For an even thicker and crispier coating, you can double-dredge the tomatoes. Simply repeat the dredging process by dipping the coated tomatoes back into the egg mixture and then into the cornmeal mixture a second time. This will give your fried green tomatoes an extra crunchy texture.

Step 6: Fry Away!

Now that your tomatoes are breaded, it's time to fry them! Heat your oil in a deep fryer or skillet to the recommended temperature, usually around 350-375°F (175-190°C). Gently place the tomatoes into the hot oil and cook until they are golden brown and floating. Drain them on a plate lined with paper towels, and your fried green tomatoes are ready to serve!

How to fry the tomatoes

How to Fry Green Tomatoes

Ingredients

To fry green tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• Green tomatoes
• Flour
• Cornmeal
• Breadcrumbs
• Buttermilk
• Eggs
• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are recommended)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional ingredients include:

• Sugar
• Bacon grease
• Cajun seasoning
• Ranch dressing
• Hot pepper sauce
• Creole seasoning
• Mayonnaise
• Parsley
• Capers
• Hot sauce
• Horseradish
• Lemon zest and juice
• Garlic

Equipment

• Deep fryer or large saucepan
• Paper towels
• Airtight container (for storage)

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Slice the tomatoes into slices that are roughly 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick. Thicker slices may require a light sprinkling of salt to draw out excess liquid. Let the salted tomatoes stand for 5 minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

Set out three separate shallow bowls for dredging. In the first bowl, place plain flour. In the second bowl, whisk together egg and buttermilk. In the third bowl, combine cornmeal, breadcrumbs, and any desired seasonings. You may also add a small amount of flour to this mixture.

Step 3: Dredge the Tomatoes

Dredge the tomato slices in the following order: first, coat them lightly in flour, then dip them into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and finally, dredge them in the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture. Be sure to press the coating onto the tomatoes so that it adheres well.

Step 4: Fry the Tomatoes

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit. Gently place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry the tomatoes for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and floating. Drain the fried tomatoes on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Fried green tomatoes are best served fresh and can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce such as remoulade, ranch, or sour cream. They also pair well with a variety of toppings, including hot sauce, pimento cheese, or fried eggs.

How to store fried green tomatoes

Storing fried green tomatoes correctly is essential to preserve their crispy texture and tangy taste. Here is a detailed guide on how to store fried green tomatoes:

Refrigerating Fried Green Tomatoes:

Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, straight out of the pan. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain freshness and crispiness, place the fried green tomatoes in an airtight container. This will prevent them from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odours from the refrigerator.

Reheating Fried Green Tomatoes:

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover fried green tomatoes, there are a few recommended reheating methods to ensure they regain their crispy texture. You can reheat them in an oiled skillet, oven, or air fryer. These methods will help restore the crispiness that makes fried green tomatoes so delicious.

Freezing Fried Green Tomatoes:

While fried green tomatoes don't freeze well, you can freeze sliced and battered green tomatoes before frying. To do this, pat the tomatoes dry, dip them in an egg wash, dredge them in a flour-cornmeal mixture, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, you'll have a supply of battered tomatoes ready to pop into the skillet whenever you crave fried green tomatoes.

Storing Uncooked Green Tomatoes:

If you have an abundance of unripe green tomatoes and want to store them for future frying, there are a few methods to consider. You can wrap them individually in newspaper and store them in a cool, dry place, or you can pull up the entire plant, shake off the excess soil, and hang it upside down in a cool area with indirect light. These methods will allow the green tomatoes to ripen gradually.

What to serve with fried green tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

As an appetizer or side dish

Fried green tomatoes can be served as a delicious appetizer or side dish. Simply slice them into 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick pieces, dredge in flour, and fry to a crispy, golden brown. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and serve as is, or with a creamy and flavorful sauce like remoulade, honey mustard, or sweet chilli sauce.

As part of a salad

Fried green tomatoes make an excellent addition to a salad, providing a crunchy contrast to fresh greens. Try them with a sweet onion dressing or a bacon vinaigrette for an extra flavour boost.

In a sandwich

For a unique twist on a classic, use fried green tomatoes instead of ripe tomatoes in a BLT. Or, for a more substantial sandwich, try a pimiento cheese sandwich with fried green tomatoes. If you're feeling extra indulgent, use two fried green tomatoes as the "bread" and sandwich some pimiento cheese in between.

On a biscuit

For a hearty breakfast or brunch option, serve fried green tomatoes on a hot, buttery biscuit. You can even add a fried green tomato to an egg or sausage biscuit for a breakfast sandwich that will keep you full all morning.

As a topping

Fried green tomatoes can also be used as a topping for dishes like burgers, grits, or salads. Their tangy flavour and crispy texture will elevate any dish.

As part of a casserole

If you're short on time, try making a fried green tomato casserole. Layer sliced green tomatoes in a baking dish with your desired seasonings, and top with crumbled crackers and butter. Bake until golden, and you've got a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.

With seafood

Fried green tomatoes pair surprisingly well with seafood, especially crab and shrimp. Try them with a crab cake or top them with fresh crab or shrimp for a decadent dish. Don't forget the remoulade sauce, which goes perfectly with both fried green tomatoes and seafood.

With eggs

For a Southern-style breakfast or brunch, create a fried green tomato eggs benedict. Use a fluffy biscuit as the base, add your fried green tomatoes, and top with a generous smear of pimiento cheese or bacon jam.

In a po' boy sandwich

Fried green tomatoes are a perfect filling for a New Orleans-style po' boy sandwich. Keep it traditional with a remoulade or Old Bay aioli, or get creative with toppings like tomato jam, bacon jam, or mango salsa.

With cheese

Fried green tomatoes and cheese are a match made in heaven. Try sprinkling them with goat cheese, feta, blue cheese, or Boursin cheese. You can also sandwich the cheese between two fried green tomatoes for a tasty snack.

With meat

Fried green tomatoes can also be paired with meat for a heartier dish. Try them with bacon, sausage, or country ham. Or, for a Southern twist, serve them with cheese grits and bacon.

As a snack

Cut fried green tomatoes into wedges or nugget-sized chunks and serve with your favourite dip. Ranch, remoulade, and sriracha aioli are all great options.

So, there you have it! Fried green tomatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Get creative and enjoy experimenting with different flavours and combinations.

Frequently asked questions