Buttermilk Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Description
Discover the irresistible charm of Buttermilk Fried Green Tomatoes, a delicious take on a classic Southern dish. This recipe stands apart with its use of tangy buttermilk and self-rising flour instead of traditional cornmeal, yielding a light and crispy texture. Historically, green tomatoes were a clever way to enjoy the fruit in its less sweet, firm form, making it an ideal culinary choice for savory applications. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this recipe offers a balance of rich flavor and satisfying crunch that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | 2 | Large size, for batter |
| Buttermilk | 1 ½ cups | Adds tangy flavor and tenderizes |
| Self-rising flour | 1 cup + 1 ½ tbsp | Divided for batter and dredging |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Divided for batter and dredging |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp | Divided for batter and dredging |
| Green tomatoes | 3 | Firm, medium-sized, sliced |
| Oil for frying | As needed | Use vegetable or canola oil |
| Nutritional Info | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 92.3 |
| Fat | 1.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 32.2 mg |
| Sodium | 448.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 3.4 g |
| Protein | 4.2 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined. |
| 2 | Gradually whisk in 1 tablespoon of self-rising flour, along with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, to form a smooth batter. |
| 3 | Place the tomato slices into the batter, ensuring each slice is fully submerged. Let the tomatoes soak in the mixture for 30 minutes to enhance flavor. |
| 4 | Meanwhile, prepare the dredging mixture by combining the remaining 1 cup of self-rising flour with the other ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper in a shallow dish. |
| 5 | Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works best) over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy. |
| 6 | Remove a tomato slice from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess batter to drip off. Dredge the slice in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour. |
| 7 | Carefully place the dredged tomato slices into the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring the slices do not overlap or crowd the skillet. Overcrowding reduces crispiness. |
| 8 | Cook the tomatoes for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the coating turns golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn the slices gently. |
| 9 | Once fried, transfer the tomatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining slices. |
| 10 | Lightly sprinkle the fried tomatoes with additional salt to taste while they are still warm. |
| 11 | Serve the fried green tomatoes immediately with a dollop of tomato chutney, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful finish. |
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for firm green tomatoes that hold their shape during frying. Avoid overly ripe or soft tomatoes.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature, ensuring it stays around 350°F for consistent frying.
- Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the skillet will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, unevenly cooked tomatoes.
- Enhance the Flavor: For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the dredging mixture.
Yield
This recipe makes approximately 12–15 slices, depending on the size of the tomatoes used.
Suggested Pairings
- Tomato Chutney: The tangy sweetness complements the crispiness beautifully.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light side to balance the richness of the fried tomatoes.
- Southern Sweet Tea: A classic beverage pairing that completes the experience.
Relish the golden perfection of these Buttermilk Fried Green Tomatoes, a dish that embodies both tradition and irresistible flavor. Visit Love With Recipes for more delightful inspirations!
