How To Make The Best Batter Fried Green Tomatoes – A Southern Classic Recipe!

Batter-fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic, and for good reason. They’re crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. But how do you make them? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect batter-fried green tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized green tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes into 1/2-inch rounds. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.

3. Dip the tomatoes in the batter: Dip each tomato slice into the milk mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess batter.

4. Fry the tomatoes: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the tomatoes in the hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Drain the tomatoes: Remove the tomatoes from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

6. Serve: Serve the batter-fried green tomatoes hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• For the best results, use fresh, firm green tomatoes.
• If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use all-purpose flour instead.
• To make the batter even crispier, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour mixture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the tomatoes. This will prevent them from cooking evenly.
• Serve the batter-fried green tomatoes with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.

Variations

• Spicy batter: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy batter: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter mixture.
• Herbed batter: Add 1 tablespoon of dried oregano or basil to the flour mixture.

Troubleshooting

• The batter is too thick: Add a little more milk to the batter until it reaches the desired consistency.
• The batter is too thin: Add a little more flour to the batter until it reaches the desired consistency.
• The tomatoes are not cooking evenly: Adjust the heat to medium-low and cook the tomatoes for a few minutes longer on each side.
• The tomatoes are sticking to the skillet: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the tomatoes to the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Batter-fried green tomatoes can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. They can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, ketchup, or barbecue sauce. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As an appetizer: Serve the batter-fried green tomatoes with a dipping sauce of your choice.
• As a side dish: Serve the batter-fried green tomatoes with grilled chicken or fish.
• As a main course: Serve the batter-fried green tomatoes with mashed potatoes and gravy.

The Perfect Ending: A Crispy, Tangy Delicacy

Batter-fried green tomatoes are a culinary delight that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, they’re sure to be a hit. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, give batter-fried green tomatoes a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. What is the best way to slice green tomatoes for frying?

Use a sharp knife to slice the green tomatoes into 1/2-inch rounds.

2. How do I know when the batter-fried green tomatoes are done cooking?

The tomatoes are done cooking when they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.

3. What is the best dipping sauce for batter-fried green tomatoes?

The best dipping sauce for batter-fried green tomatoes is a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include ranch dressing, ketchup, and barbecue sauce.