Southern Style Fried Green Tomatoes 🍅✨

Southern Style Fried Green Tomatoes are a timeless classic that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen. With their crispy cornmeal coating and tartness from the unripe tomatoes, these golden-brown slices are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main event. Pair them with a zesty remoulade for extra flavor and an unforgettable crunch that'll have you craving more!

Ingredients

For the tomatoes

• 3 medium-sized green tomatoes
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the remoulade

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your preference)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons capers, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a paper towel and sprinkle a little salt on both sides. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out some moisture; this will help them crisp up when fried.

2. Make the buttermilk bath: Pour buttermilk into a shallow bowl. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, coating both sides thoroughly.

3. Coat the tomatoes: In another shallow bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Take each buttermilk-coated tomato slice and dredge it in the cornmeal mixture, pressing slightly to ensure a good coating.

4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop in a pinch of the cornmeal mixture; it should sizzle immediately.

5. Fry the tomatoes: Carefully add a few coated tomato slices to the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

🥄 For an extra crunch, try double-dipping your tomatoes: after the first coat, dip them back in the buttermilk and then again in the cornmeal mixture before frying.

6. Prepare the remoulade: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, lemon juice, chopped capers, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Serve: Arrange the fried green tomatoes on a serving platter and serve hot with the remoulade on the side.

🧊 For a twist, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the remoulade for an herbal kick!

Variations

• Spicy: Add some cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture for an extra kick! 🌶️
• Cheesy: Mix in some grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese into the cornmeal for a cheesy crust.
• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
• Herb-infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the cornmeal mixture for added flavor.

These Southern Style Fried Green Tomatoes are sure to impress at your next gathering, or serve them as a delightful snack for yourself. Enjoy a slice of Southern hospitality! ❤️