Southern-Style Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy on the outside with a pleasantly tangy center, fried green tomatoes are a true Southern classic. Firm, unripened tomatoes are sliced thick, coated in a flavorful breading, and pan-fried until beautifully golden. Served as a side or a starter, they’re a nostalgic comfort food that never goes out of style.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large green tomatoes
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about ½ inch deep in the pan)
Instructions
1. Set Up the Tomatoes and Breading Stations
Slice the green tomatoes into ½-inch-thick rounds, discarding the ends. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Place the flour on one plate. On a second plate, mix the cornmeal, bread crumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
2. Bread the Tomato Slices
Coat each tomato slice in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg and milk mixture, then press firmly into the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture so each slice is fully coated.
3. Fry Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, about ½ inch deep. Working in small batches of 4–5 slices, gently place the breaded tomatoes into the hot oil, being careful not to crowd the pan.
4. Drain and Serve
Cook until golden brown on one side, flip, and fry until the second side is equally crisp. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.
