Southern Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

Crunchy and tangy, fried green tomatoes are a true Southern classic. Frying is a fantastic way to enjoy end-of-season green tomatoes, and their tart flavor goes well with just about any meal.

The crisp coating for the unripe green tomatoes features seasoned flour, buttermilk and egg batter, and a cornmeal and breadcrumb coating. This easy recipe will make you wonder why you've never made fried green tomatoes before.

If it's early in the season and you can't wait for green tomatoes, go ahead and make them with firm, ripe tomatoes or green heirloom tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes are less acidic and tangy, but they're still delicious when battered and fried.

What, Exactly, Are Green Tomatoes?

Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that boast a tangier flavor and firmer texture than their red, fully ripened counterparts. They usually come into abundance at the end of summer, when the temperatures aren't always warm enough to help remaining tomatoes fully ripen.

Wait, I've Heard That Green Tomatoes Are Poisonous

While, yes, there are toxins present in unripe tomatoes they're only present in small amounts and shouldn't cause distress when eaten in moderation.

Everything You Need to Know About Green Tomatoes

Where to Find Green Tomatoes

If you don't live in a Southern state or grow your own tomatoes, it can be difficult to find green tomatoes. Your best bet is to look for green tomatoes at local farmers' markets or specialty markets.

A Quick, Easy Buttermilk Substitute

Buttermilk further boosts the tart flavor in this recipe, but if you forget to pick up a carton, here's an easy substitution: Add 1 tablespoon or lemon juice or white vinegar to a little less than 1 cup of milk and you'll have a buttermilk swap ready in 5 to 10 minutes.

What to Serve With Fried Green Tomatoes

Enjoy fried green tomatoes as a side dish or as an appetizer with dipping sauces. Remoulade sauce, Southern comeback sauce, and a ranch dip or dressing are excellent choices. Or transform your favorite BLT with fried green tomatoes—a BLFGT!

What Else Can You Make With Fried Green Tomatoes?

If you have an abundance of green tomatoes, there are many other great ways to enjoy them. This green tomato soup puts a Southern spin on the classic. Or make a batch of sweet, tangy green tomato pickles or a spicy green tomato chow chow to preserve your harvest. You can even turn your green tomatoes into a tasty dessert! Make a unique sweet green tomato pie or this moist green tomato cake.