Fried green tomatoes

Here’s a classic Southern recipe for fried green tomatoes. Enjoy this crispy and tangy treat!

Ingredients:

• 4 large green tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Wash and slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
   • Sprinkle both sides of the slices with salt and pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out some of the moisture and enhances the flavor.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • In a shallow dish, place the flour.
   • In another shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
   • In a third shallow dish, place the cornmeal.
3. Bread the Tomatoes:
   • Dip each tomato slice into the flour, shaking off the excess.
   • Next, dip the slice into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the slice in the cornmeal, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet until it is about 1/2 inch deep. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it. If the bread sizzles and browns in about a minute, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the Tomatoes:
   • Carefully place a few tomato slices into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet.
   • Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the tomatoes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the fried green tomatoes hot, with your favorite dipping sauce. Popular choices include ranch dressing, remoulade, or a simple spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with a bit of hot sauce).

Enjoy your delicious homemade fried green tomatoes!