Why Make This Recipe
Fried green tomatoes are a delightful Southern classic. They bring together the crispiness of fried food and the unique flavor of green tomatoes. This dish is not just delicious but also a fun way to use unripe tomatoes. Whether as a side dish or a snack, fried green tomatoes are sure to impress your family and friends.
How to Make Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 3 medium green tomatoes (firm)
- 1 3/4 teaspoons salt (divided)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other milk of choice)
- 1 large egg
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour)
- 1 cup blanched almond flour (finely ground)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Avocado oil
- 1/2 cup avocado-oil based mayo
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 Tablespoons finely diced dill pickle
- 1 Tablespoon dill pickle juice
- 1/2 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (of choice)
Directions:
- Slice the tomatoes into 1/4” thick slices.
- Line your counter (or cookie sheet pan) with two layers of paper towel. Place the sliced tomatoes in an even layer and sprinkle both sides with 1 teaspoon salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Meanwhile, prepare the tomato-dunking ingredients. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the almond milk and egg until combined. Set aside.
- In a second shallow bowl, add the flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix together the almond flour, breadcrumbs, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- After 30 minutes, pat the tomato slices dry with a new paper towel.
- Dip each tomato slice in the following order: egg mixture, flour mixture, egg mixture, and breadcrumb mixture. Set the coated tomato onto a parchment-lined pan or plate in the meantime.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tomato slices until all are coated.
- Heat a large rimmed (ideally nonstick) skillet over medium heat. Add just enough oil to coat the entire bottom of the pan (about 1/8” high).
- Add 5-8 tomato slices to the pan at once, leaving at least ½” space between each. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the fried tomatoes onto a cooling rack set over a paper towel. Let the tomatoes cool for 10 minutes before eating.
- To make the sauce, mix all the sauce ingredients together in a bowl.
- Serve the sauce with the fried tomatoes and enjoy!
How to Serve Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are excellent as a side dish, a snack, or even an appetizer. You can serve them alongside a tangy dipping sauce to enhance their flavor. They can also be enjoyed on a sandwich for a crunchy twist.
How to Store Fried Green Tomatoes
To store any leftovers, place the fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or an air fryer for best results, to get them crispy again.
Tips to Make Fried Green Tomatoes
- Choose firm green tomatoes for the best texture.
- Don’t skip salting the tomatoes; it helps to draw out moisture and enhances flavor.
- Use a nonstick skillet for easier frying and cleanup.
- Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning the tomato slices.
Variation
You can experiment with different seasonings, such as Cajun spices or smoked paprika, for a unique flavor. You can also swap the dipping sauce with ranch dressing or a spicy aioli for more options.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green ones?
A: Ripe tomatoes can be used, but they may not hold their shape as well when fried and will have a different taste.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish completely gluten-free.
Q: How do I know when the tomatoes are done frying?
A: They should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. Be careful not to overcook them!
