Crispy thin fried green tomatoes –There’s something truly special about classic fried green tomatoes. This beloved Southern dish is not only a comfort food, but it’s also a delightful way to enjoy summer’s bounty. With their tangy flavor and crispy coating, fried green tomatoes make for a perfect appetizer or side dish, bringing a taste of tradition to your table.
Classic Fried Green Tomatoes
These crispy delights are easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they are a wonderful way to use up green tomatoes from your garden or the local market. Let’s get started!

Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 to 5 medium green tomatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to whip up your fried green tomatoes:
- Start by washing the green tomatoes and slicing them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- In one bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well mixed.
- In a third bowl, place the cornmeal. This will be used for the crispy coating.
- Dip each tomato slice first into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it with cornmeal. Make sure each slice is evenly coated.
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the cornmeal mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry.
- Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the fried green tomatoes and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Season with additional salt if desired.
Serve your fried green tomatoes hot, and enjoy the delightful crunch combined with their zesty flavor. This dish will not only tantalize your taste buds but also evoke memories of sunny southern gatherings and shared plates among friends and family.