There is something comforting about the sound of tomatoes sizzling in a skillet, especially when they are coated in a crunchy Southern-style crust. Fried green tomatoes have been a favorite in many Kentucky kitchens for generations.
Ingredients:
3 large green tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1 cup cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup plain breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
Vegetable oil for frying (like peanut or canola)
Instructions:
Soak the slices: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add the sliced tomatoes and let them soak for at least 10 minutes while you prep your coating.
Mix the coating: In another bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne if using.
Coat the tomatoes: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Take each tomato slice from the buttermilk mixture and dredge it in the cornmeal coating, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.
Fry 'em up: Fry the slices in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until they're golden brown and crisp. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
Drain and serve: Remove the fried tomatoes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Let them drain for a minute, then serve hot.
Top with a dollop of pimento cheese, a drizzle of bourbon-infused aioli, or pair with a side of buttermilk ranch dressing for dipping.