Fried Green Tomatoes

Introduction

History

Fried green tomatoes have been a popular dish in the Southern United States for generations. The recipe is said to have originated in the early 19th century when unripe tomatoes were fried as a way to use up excess produce. Today, fried green tomatoes are a staple in Southern cuisine and can be found on menus across the country.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use firm green tomatoes for this recipe, as they hold up better during frying.

- Be sure to drain the fried tomatoes on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

- For a healthier alternative, you can bake the tomatoes in the oven instead of frying them.

Serving Suggestions

Fried green tomatoes are delicious on their own, but can also be served with a side of ranch dressing or remoulade sauce for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional method for making fried green tomatoes, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the batter for the fried green tomatoes ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fried green tomatoes on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fried green tomatoes pair well with dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or a classic BLT sandwich.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Fried green tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fried green tomatoes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fried green tomatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of fried green tomatoes contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of fried green tomatoes contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Fried green tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and vitamin K.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour and cornmeal. It may also contain dairy if buttermilk is used.

Summary

Fried green tomatoes are a tasty treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. They are a good source of vitamin C and K, but should be enjoyed in moderation due to their calorie content.

Summary

Fried green tomatoes are a delicious and classic Southern dish that is perfect for using up unripe tomatoes. With a crispy coating and tangy flavor, they make a great appetizer or side dish for any meal. Enjoy them with a side of ranch dressing or remoulade sauce for a tasty treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. As we sat on her porch sipping sweet tea, she mentioned that she had just picked a fresh batch of green tomatoes from her garden and planned to fry them up for dinner. Intrigued, I asked her to show me how she made them.

Mrs. Jenkins was more than happy to share her recipe with me. She explained that green tomatoes are not ripe like the red ones we are used to eating and have a tangy flavor that is perfect for frying. She sliced them thinly, dipped them in a mixture of cornmeal and spices, and then fried them until they were golden brown and crispy. The end result was a mouth-watering dish that was both savory and satisfying.

I watched Mrs. Jenkins carefully as she prepared the tomatoes, taking mental notes of each step. She told me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down to her many years ago. It was a family tradition that she was proud to continue, and now she was passing it on to me.

After tasting the fried green tomatoes, I knew that I had to make them for my own family. I went home that day with a basket of green tomatoes from Mrs. Jenkins' garden and set to work in my own kitchen. As I sliced and fried the tomatoes, the familiar scent of cornmeal and spices filled the air, bringing back memories of summers spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother.

When I served the fried green tomatoes to my family that evening, they were met with rave reviews. My husband declared them the best he had ever tasted, and my children eagerly asked for seconds. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in our household, just as it had been in Mrs. Jenkins' family for generations.

Over the years, I have made fried green tomatoes for countless gatherings and special occasions. They have become a signature dish of mine, one that always brings smiles to the faces of those who try them. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition that was started by Mrs. Jenkins so many years ago.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first learned to make fried green tomatoes, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary knowledge that has been passed down through the generations. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of the strong women who came before me, whose love and dedication to cooking has shaped the way I approach food and family.

So the next time you find yourself with a basket of green tomatoes, don't hesitate to try this recipe. It is more than just a dish – it is a piece of history, a connection to the past that can be savored and shared with those you love. And who knows, maybe one day you will pass it on to someone special, just as Mrs. Jenkins did for me.

Categories

| American Recipes | Comfort Food | Green Tomato Recipes | Southern Recipes |

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