Fried green tomatoes are a Southern delicacy that brings together the perfect balance of crispy, tangy, and savory. Whether you’re looking to add a twist to your next meal or craving a nostalgic bite, these golden, crunchy tomatoes are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
The key to making perfect fried green tomatoes is starting with firm, unripe tomatoes. Green tomatoes are less juicy and have a firmer texture than their red counterparts, making them ideal for frying. When you slice them into thick rounds, they hold up well during the frying process and develop a satisfying crunch on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
To get that perfect crispy coating, dip the tomato slices in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture. The cornmeal gives them that classic Southern texture and golden color, while the flour helps the coating adhere to the tomatoes. You can add spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the dredging mixture for extra flavor. If you like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper works wonders.
Once the tomatoes are coated, fry them in hot oil until they’re golden and crispy on both sides. Be sure to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
Fried green tomatoes can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or appetizer, but they also make a great side dish for fried chicken, shrimp, or other Southern favorites. For a twist, serve them with a tangy remoulade or ranch dressing for dipping. They also make a fantastic topping for sandwiches, burgers, or salads.
This simple yet delicious dish captures the essence of Southern cooking and is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, fried green tomatoes are a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a timeless treat worth trying.

Ingredients
- 4 green tomatoes
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Working in batches, fry the tomato slices for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning once.
- Transfer the fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Fried tomatoes? That’s just wrong. Stick with regular tomatoes people!!!
Not a fan of these… I thought they would taste better. Kind of bland to me.
Fried tomatoes? Sounds crazy! But tried it anyway. Guess what, I actually liked it!
I was skeptical but gave it a shot… they weren’t too bad! A bit mushy tho.
My mama used to make these, but she never put cayenne pepper. I think it ruins the taste! 🤔
Just okay. I think it needed some spices or something. Lacked flavor for me. Maybe I needed to season more?
Why do people even eat green tomatoes? They taste weird. I’ll stick to red.
I ain’t ever seen fried tomatoes like this before. They look funny but taste great. ‘Merica!
Are green tomatoes even a thing? Why not use red ones? Sounds weird.
I tried this recipe and it was a total flop. They came out soggy, not crispy at all. What did I do wrong?
Sorry to hear that! Maybe the oil wasn’t hot enough? It can make a big difference in getting them crispy.
I dunno, but I’ve never had that problem. Just follow the instructions and maybe it’s the tomatoes’ fault?
These are so good! Can’t believe how easy it was! 😍
Yummm! If you fry anything, it will taste good! 👍
I don’t know, they were too oily for me. Might’ve used too much oil. *shrug*
These were delicious! Made them for my family and they couldn’t get enough. Will definitely make again.
Delicious? Really? I tried this recipe and it wasn’t that great. Maybe I’m just not a fan of fried green tomatoes.
I’m so glad to hear that! They’re a family favorite in my house too. What dipping sauce did you use?
Meh, not great. I think I prefer them with ketchup instead, lol!
Awesome recipe! Used heirloom tomatoes from my garden, they were fresh and delicious. Highly recommend!
Sounds delicious! I love using garden-fresh tomatoes. Can’t wait to try this recipe!
Super easy recipe! Buttermilk made it moister and I added some garlic powder too. Yum!
I followed the recipe but they didn’t fry well. Maybe I used too much oil? Not sure what I did wrong.
Yummm!!! This recipe is like heaven! Please try it! You won’t regret it.
I never tried fried green tomatoes b4, but this recipe got me hooked! So good!
I don’t know, they seem too weird. Green tomatoes? Really? Idk if I would like them…
Fried green tomatoes are the best! I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe! 🍅
These were amazing! Crispy and full of flavor. Will definitely make again.
Just a waste of good tomatoes… Sorry, but this meal didn’t work for me. 😞
Nothin like fried green tomatos! Tried it for a family gathering and it was a hit! So easy too!
These were amazing! Perfectly crispy and so tasty!
Ugh, this recipe is so basic, everyone knows how to fry things. Get creative!
I think it’s a classic for a reason! Sometimes simple is best, especially if you get the frying right. 😋
Basic? Maybe, but some people just wanna enjoy some good fried tomatoes! Not everything needs to be fancy.
Who puts cayenne pepper in fried tomatoes? That sounds weird!
These were amazing! Crispy and so flavorful. My family loved them!
I followed the recipe, but they came out super oily. What did I do wrong?
These were amazing! First time trying fried green tomatoes and I couldn’t believe how crunchy they turned out. 5 stars!
I’m glad you loved them! Fried green tomatoes have such a unique flavor when done right.
Never heard of this before! Are they really that good? Sounds kinda weird to me.
Delish! Super easy to make but I think next time I’ll add some garlic powder to the mix.
I don’t understand why anyone would eat fried green tomatoes. Just eat regular tomatoes, right?
Fried green tomatoes have a unique taste! They’re crispy and delicious. You should try making them once!
Yummy! I served them with ranch dressing on the side. Best snack ever! 🥳
Not sure if green tomatoes are the best snack… fried pickles are better😉.
Ranch dressing sounds awesome with those! I gotta try that. 🤤
This recipe is a classic southern treat! Perfect crunchy texture and the spices were just right. A+!
Is there any alternative for the buttermilk? I can’t find it where I live.
Simple & tasty! Kids even liked it. Will make again! 🙂
I’m so glad your kids liked it! It’s always a win when they enjoy something healthy. 👍
I don’t know, they looked funny to me. Green tomatoes? Really? I prefer red ones. No thanks.