Another Fried Green Tomato Recipe

🍅 Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe 🍅

History:
Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern dish that originated in the United States. The dish gained popularity in the South during the 19th century when tomatoes were introduced to the region. This recipe was popularized by the novel and subsequent movie “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe” by Fannie Flagg, which helped catapult the dish to fame.

Components:

• 4-6 green tomatoes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Optional: hot sauce or dipping sauce of your choice

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare Tomatoes:

   • Wash the green tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick rounds.

2. Set Up Breading Station:

   • In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour.
   • In another dish, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
   • In a third dish, spread out the cornmeal.

3. Dip and Coat:

   • Take each tomato slice and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
   • Finally, press the tomato slice into the cornmeal, making sure it’s evenly coated on both sides. Repeat for all slices.

4. Heat Oil:

   • In a large skillet, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom (about 1/2 inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small pinch of cornmeal into it; it should sizzle and float.

5. Fry Tomatoes:

   • Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to fry them in batches.
   • Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them over.

6. Drain and Serve:

   • Remove the fried green tomatoes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
   • Optionally, season them with a bit more salt while they’re still hot.
   • Serve your crispy fried green tomatoes hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a dash of hot sauce.

Time Needed:
The total preparation time for fried green tomatoes typically takes around 30-40 minutes, including slicing and frying. It’s a delightful Southern comfort food that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a tasty snack! 😊🍽️👌

Certainly! Here’s the nutrition information and some health considerations for fried green tomatoes:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 150-200 calories per serving (varies based on size and frying method)
• Fat: 10-15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-30 milligrams
• Sodium: 250-350 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 2-3 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Vitamin C: 15-20% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of the daily recommended intake

Health Considerations:

1. Calorie and Fat Content: Fried green tomatoes are delicious but can be relatively high in calories and fat due to the frying process. Moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your calorie or fat intake.

2. Fiber and Vitamins: Green tomatoes provide a decent amount of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A. However, the frying process may reduce some of their nutritional value.

3. Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on how much salt you use in the recipe and whether you add additional salt after frying. Be mindful of your sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.

4. Vegetable Oil: The type of oil used for frying can impact the overall healthiness of the dish. Opt for heart-healthy oils like canola or olive oil and avoid reusing the same oil too many times.

5. Portion Control: Enjoy fried green tomatoes in moderation as a treat rather than a regular part of your diet to maintain a balanced intake of nutrients.

6. Dipping Sauces: Be cautious with high-calorie dipping sauces, as they can add significant calories and fat. Consider healthier alternatives like yogurt-based sauces or salsas.

Remember that the nutritional values can vary depending on factors like the size of the tomato slices and the exact ingredients used in your recipe. Adjustments in the cooking process, such as using less oil or choosing whole-grain breading, can make the dish slightly healthier. Enjoy your fried green tomatoes as an occasional indulgence! 😊🍅🍽️