Keto Southern-Style Fried Green Tomatoes

Recipe Card

Servings & Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Dietary Badges:
✔ Vegetarian
✔ Comfort Food Classic
✔ Southern Cuisine

🛒 Ingredients

Firm green tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch thick
All-purpose flour
Cornmeal
Salt & black pepper
Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Egg
Buttermilk
Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
Dipping sauce (remoulade, ranch, or aioli)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Slice tomatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Pat dry.
In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
In another bowl, whisk egg with buttermilk until smooth.
Dip tomato slices in egg mixture, then dredge in the flour-cornmeal mix until fully coated.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry tomato slices for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauce.

Notes:

Use firm, unripe green tomatoes — they hold up better to frying.
Adjust cayenne for desired spice level.

Introduction

Fried Green Tomatoes are a Southern classic—crispy on the outside, tender and tangy on the inside. They’re a perfect starter, snack, or side dish, especially when paired with a creamy, zesty dipping sauce like remoulade.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1 – Slice the Tomatoes
Use green, unripe tomatoes for their firm texture. Pat slices dry to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 2 – Prepare Coating
Combine flour, cornmeal, and spices for a crunchy, flavorful breading.

Step 3 – Dip & Dredge
Each slice gets dipped in egg-buttermilk wash, then dredged in the dry mix.

Step 4 – Fry to Perfection
Fry until golden on both sides, then drain on paper towels.

Step 5 – Serve
Enjoy hot with a dipping sauce for the ultimate Southern bite.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

Cornmeal: Gives signature crunch. If unavailable, use breadcrumbs.
Buttermilk: Adds tang; substitute with milk + 1 tsp lemon juice.
Cayenne: Optional but recommended for a touch of heat.
Oil: Peanut oil gives authentic Southern flavor, but vegetable oil works fine.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

Spicy Version: Add chili powder or hot sauce to the egg wash.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle Parmesan on top before serving.
Serving Ideas: Pair with remoulade, ranch, or a spicy aioli. Serve alongside fried chicken, BBQ, or fresh salads.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Best Fresh: These are best eaten right away for crispiness.
Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or 375°F oven for 5–7 minutes (avoid microwaving).
Make-Ahead: Slice tomatoes and prepare coating bowls in advance; fry just before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 425°F on a parchment-lined sheet, flipping halfway, until golden (about 20 minutes).

Q: Can I use red tomatoes?
A: Not recommended—ripe tomatoes are too soft and will get mushy. Stick to firm green ones.

Q: What sauces pair well?
A: Remoulade is classic, but ranch, chipotle mayo, or even hot honey are delicious!

Personal Note

The first time I had Fried Green Tomatoes was at a roadside diner in the South, and I’ve been hooked ever since. They’re crispy, tangy, and surprisingly addictive — proof that the simplest ingredients can create something unforgettable.

Author
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Rabia

Chef & Food Blogger at menuatthetable.com

Rabia has been a chef in Dubai for over eight years and loves exploring different types of food. Through the blog Menu at the Table, Rabia shares the best places to eat in Dubai for every cuisine. Whether you want street food or a fancy restaurant, Rabia helps you find the perfect spot to enjoy delicious meals.