Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe Easy Perfect Southern Snack
A classic Southern snack featuring firm green tomatoes coated in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mix, fried to a golden, crispy perfection. This easy recipe delivers a tangy, crunchy treat perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium-sized green tomatoes (about 1 ½ pounds / 700 grams), firm and unripe
- 1 cup buttermilk (240 ml), for dipping (can substitute with plain yogurt thinned with milk)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (95 grams)
- ¾ cup cornmeal (110 grams), preferably medium grind
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 to 1 ½ cups peanut oil or vegetable oil (240–360 ml) for frying
Instructions
- Wash and dry the green tomatoes thoroughly. Slice into ¼-inch (6 mm) thick rounds, keeping slices uniform.
- Pour buttermilk into one shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper until combined.
- Dip each tomato slice in buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides. For extra crunch, repeat the dip and coat process.
- Pour oil into a heavy skillet about ½ inch deep. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a pinch of flour sizzles on contact.
- Fry 3-4 tomato slices at a time without overcrowding. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, flipping gently with tongs.
- Remove fried tomatoes and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve warm immediately. To keep warm, place on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven for up to 15 minutes.
Notes
Use peanut oil or vegetable oil for high smoke point and clean flavor. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt coating. Double dredge for extra crunch. Drain on wire rack to keep crispy. For gluten-free, substitute flour and cornmeal with certified gluten-free versions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4-5 slices per
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: fried green tomatoes, southern snack, crispy fried tomatoes, easy appetizer, cornmeal coating, buttermilk dip