Description
Fried Green Tomatoes are a crispy, tangy Southern-inspired snack or side featuring firm slices of unripe green tomatoes coated in a golden, flavorful crust. Served with a zesty plant-based dip, this dish offers a satisfying crunch and vibrant taste perfect for any meal or gathering, made with wholesome, everyday ingredients and easy to customize to your preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fried Green Tomatoes
- 4–5 firm green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
- 1 cup plant-based buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 teaspoon additional seasoning blend (salt, pepper, smoked paprika) (natural)
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough for shallow frying)
For the Zesty Dip
- 1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the green tomatoes and slice them into rounds approximately 1/4-inch thick. Pat each slice dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better and fry up crispier.
- Set Up the Dredging Station: Arrange three bowls: one with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (natural); one with plant-based buttermilk; and one with cornmeal mixed with additional seasoning (salt, pepper, smoked paprika) (natural). This layered setup ensures a crispy coating.
- Coat the Tomato Slices: Dip each tomato slice first into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk, and finally into the cornmeal blend. Press gently to make sure the cornmeal sticks evenly, creating a crunchy shell.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, around 350°F. Fry the coated tomato slices in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the Zesty Dip: In a bowl, combine plant-based mayonnaise (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, sugar, and natural gelling agent. Mix well until smooth and slightly thickened for a perfect dip.
Notes
- Use firm green tomatoes to ensure slices hold their shape while frying.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F for the best crispy coating without greasy absorption.
- Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding and maintain consistent oil temperature.
- Press the cornmeal coating firmly onto tomato slices for a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Drain fried tomatoes on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 slices with dip
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: fried green tomatoes, Southern side dish, crispy tomatoes, plant-based dip, vegetarian appetizer