10 Surprising Health Benefits Of Eating Fried Green Tomatoes – Do You Eat Them Hot Or Cold?
What To Know
- Ultimately, the decision of whether to eat fried green tomatoes hot or cold is a matter of personal preference.
- In addition to serving fried green tomatoes hot or cold, there are other ways to enjoy this Southern delicacy.
- Whether you prefer the crispy warmth of hot tomatoes or the refreshing tang of cold ones, there is no denying the deliciousness of this classic Southern dish.
Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. But one question that has sparked debate among Southerners for years is: do you eat fried green tomatoes hot or cold?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the arguments for both sides of this great Southern debate. We’ll also provide some tips on how to cook and serve fried green tomatoes, whether you prefer them hot or cold.
Hot Fried Green Tomatoes
Arguments for Hot Fried Green Tomatoes:
- Crispy exterior: When fried hot, the breading on the tomatoes becomes crispy and golden brown, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Warm and comforting: The hot tomatoes offer a comforting and cozy experience, especially on a cold day.
- Perfect with dipping sauces: Hot fried green tomatoes are the perfect complement to dipping sauces, such as ranch, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
How to Serve Hot Fried Green Tomatoes:
- Serve immediately after frying, while they are still hot and crispy.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Consider serving with a side of mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Cold Fried Green Tomatoes
Arguments for Cold Fried Green Tomatoes:
- Refreshing and tangy: Cold fried green tomatoes have a refreshing and tangy flavor that is perfect for summer.
- Easy to eat: Cold tomatoes are easier to eat than hot ones, as they won’t burn your mouth.
- Great for picnics and potlucks: Cold fried green tomatoes are a great option for picnics and potlucks, as they can be made ahead of time and served chilled.
How to Serve Cold Fried Green Tomatoes:
- Allow the tomatoes to cool completely after frying.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
- Serve chilled with your favorite dipping sauce or on a salad.
Which Way is Better?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to eat fried green tomatoes hot or cold is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer.
If you prefer the crispy texture and comforting warmth of hot fried green tomatoes, then go for it! If you prefer the refreshing and tangy flavor of cold fried green tomatoes, that’s perfectly fine too.
Tips for Cooking Fried Green Tomatoes
- Use firm, unripe green tomatoes for the best results.
- Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper, or your favorite spices.
- Dip the tomatoes in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Fry the tomatoes in hot oil until golden brown.
- Drain the tomatoes on paper towels before serving.
Other Ways to Enjoy Fried Green Tomatoes
In addition to serving fried green tomatoes hot or cold, there are other ways to enjoy this Southern delicacy:
- Fried green tomato sandwiches: Slice fried green tomatoes and layer them on bread with mayonnaise, bacon, and cheese.
- Fried green tomato salad: Combine fried green tomatoes with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing.
- Fried green tomato soup: Simmer fried green tomatoes in a broth with onions, celery, and carrots.
Takeaways: The Fried Green Tomato Verdict
The great Southern debate of “do you eat fried green tomatoes hot or cold” continues to divide Southerners today. Whether you prefer the crispy warmth of hot tomatoes or the refreshing tang of cold ones, there is no denying the deliciousness of this classic Southern dish.
What People Want to Know
Q: What is the best way to slice green tomatoes for frying?
A: Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Q: Can I use ripe tomatoes for fried green tomatoes?
A: No, ripe tomatoes will not hold their shape and will become mushy when fried.
Q: What is the best oil to use for frying green tomatoes?
A: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil or vegetable oil.
Q: How long should I fry green tomatoes?
A: Fry the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Q: Can I make fried green tomatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can fry green tomatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
