Green tomatoes are more versatile than you may think. A few methods include grilling, pickling, roasting and, of course, frying. Green tomatoes can also be transformed into relish, chutney, salsa, jam and sweet, tangy marmalade. With a slightly acidic flavor, green tomatoes lend themselves well to both sweet and savory dishes.
Print
Spicy Fried Green Tomatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3
- Diet: Vegetarian, Omnivore
Description
Crispy fried green tomatoes with a fiery kick.
Perfect as a side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cups (118 ml) milk
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1/2 cups (118 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cups (118 ml) corn meal
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp ancho chile
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 green tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (221°C).
- Set aside a baking sheet with a rack.
- In a small bowl, combine milk and vinegar. Stir and set aside.
- In another small bowl, add flour, cornmeal, paprika, red pepper flakes, ancho chile, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until evenly distributed.
- Slice tomatoes into ¼-inch slices.
- One slice at a time, dip the tomato in the curdled milk, then in the flour mixture, then in the curdled milk again, and finally in the flour mixture again, ensuring the slice is evenly covered. Tap the slice on the side of the bowl to remove excess.
- Transfer the tomato to the rack.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tomatoes.
- Drizzle the tops of the tomatoes with olive oil and transfer to the oven.
- Bake the tomatoes for 10 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
Notes
- For extra crispy tomatoes, use a double-dipping method for the batter, ensuring each slice is fully coated.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to taste.
- Store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 10
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the coating on my fried green tomatoes from falling off?
Make sure the tomato slices are patted dry before dredging. Press the coating firmly onto each slice and let them rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before frying so the breading sets.
What makes green tomatoes different from regular tomatoes for frying?
Green tomatoes are unripe, so they hold their shape in hot oil instead of turning mushy. Their firm texture and tart flavor also stand up well to a spicy, seasoned coating. 
How spicy are these fried green tomatoes?
The heat level depends on how much spice you add to your dredge. Start with a moderate amount of cayenne or hot sauce and adjust to your preference. You can also serve them with a cooling dip to balance things out.
