Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Fried Red Tomatoes
- How to Serve This Southern Classic
- Tips for Choosing the Best Tomatoes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
These crispy fried red tomatoes are a Southern favorite, delivering the perfect balance of a crunchy, seasoned crust and a juicy, tangy center. Made with buttermilk, cornmeal, and a hint of spice, they are quick and easy to prepare. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they bring a comforting crunch to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern comfort food is all about rich flavors and satisfying textures, and these crispy fried red tomatoes are no exception. With a simple yet flavorful breading, these golden beauties are crunchy on the outside and deliciously tender on the inside. Whether you’re new to frying or an expert, this recipe from Patricia Universe is foolproof and delivers amazing results every time.
The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Fried Red Tomatoes
Achieving the ideal crunch comes down to the right breading technique and oil temperature. By soaking the tomatoes in buttermilk, you ensure they stay tender while the seasoned cornmeal and flour coating forms a crisp, golden crust. Fry them in hot oil at the perfect temperature, and you’ll get that irresistible crunch that makes this dish a true Southern delight.
How to Serve This Southern Classic
These crispy fried red tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing, remoulade, or even a homemade garlic aioli for dipping. They make a fantastic appetizer, a crunchy side for burgers or sandwiches, or even a light meal when paired with a fresh salad.
Tips for Choosing the Best Tomatoes
The key to great fried tomatoes is selecting the right kind. Go for firm, slightly underripe red tomatoes. Overripe tomatoes may be too soft and release too much moisture, which can make the coating fall off during frying. Look for tomatoes with a bright red color but still firm to the touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Frying red tomatoes may seem simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the perfect crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the tomatoes soggy. Make sure to coat them evenly, press the breading firmly onto each slice, and fry at the correct temperature for the best results.
Notes & Tips
For an extra crispy coating, double dip the tomatoes by repeating the buttermilk and flour-cornmeal dredging process. If you love a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading mix. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven to restore the crispiness.
Find more delicious Southern recipes on Patricia Universe, where comfort food meets easy, flavorful cooking!
Crispy Fried Red Tomatoes – Southern Classic
Ingredients
- 4 medium red tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- In a shallow dish, pour buttermilk over the tomato slices and let them soak for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Beat the egg in a separate bowl.
- Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, then the egg, and then back into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the coated tomato slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
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