The Tangy Fried Green Tomato Sandwich Recipe You’ll Adore

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this crispy green tomato sandwich as a delectable culinary gem.

Ripe tomatoes picked before full maturity create a tangy, unexpected flavor profile.

Cornmeal coating adds a satisfying crunch that makes every bite memorable.

Fresh ingredients elevate this classic southern dish beyond simple comfort food.

Layers of creamy remoulade sauce and perfectly seasoned tomato slices promise a mouthwatering experience.

Crisp bread provides the ideal foundation for this irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

FAQs

• What makes a great fried green tomato sandwich?

The key is using unripe, firm green tomatoes that hold their shape during frying and provide a tangy, slightly tart flavor that balances the crispy cornmeal coating.

• Can I use other types of tomatoes if green tomatoes aren't available?

No, ripe red tomatoes will be too soft and won’t maintain the signature crunch and texture that green tomatoes provide in this classic Southern sandwich.

• How do I know the oil is at the right temperature for frying?

The oil should be around 350-375°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of breading into the oil – if it sizzles immediately and turns golden, the oil is ready.

Why Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches Are a Southern Classic

• Spice Up Your Meal: Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick that transforms ordinary tomatoes into a flavor explosion.
• Master Southern Comfort: Easily create a classic Southern dish that impresses friends and family with minimal cooking skills required.
• Quick Comfort Food: Whip up a satisfying sandwich in just a few simple steps, perfect for lunch or a casual dinner craving.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Customize with your favorite toppings, making it adaptable for different taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches

• Green Tomatoes: Firm, unripe tomatoes that provide a tangy and slightly tart flavor to the sandwich.
• Flour, Cornmeal, Cajun Seasoning: A crispy coating mixture that adds crunch and spicy southern flavor to the fried tomatoes.
• Eggs, Buttermilk, Hot Sauce: A wet mixture that helps the coating stick to the tomato slices and adds richness and heat.

• Peanut Oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point that ensures crispy and evenly fried tomato slices.
• Flaky Salt: A finishing touch that enhances the overall seasoning of the fried tomatoes.

• Bread: A soft or toasted bread that serves as the base for the sandwich.
• Optional Toppings: Additional ingredients like lettuce, mayonnaise, or cheese that can be added for extra flavor and texture.

How to Make Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Essentials

Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm up evenly.

Step 2: Create Crispy Coating Blend

• All-purpose flour
• Cornmeal
• Cajun seasoning

Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a flavorful breading.

Step 3: Whip Up Dipping Liquid

• Eggs
• Buttermilk
• Hot sauce

Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Bread the Tomato Slices

Dip each green tomato slice first into the flour mixture, then coat completely in the egg mixture, and finally return to the flour mixture for a second coating.

This double-dredging ensures a super crispy exterior.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully place breaded tomato slices into the hot peanut oil.

Fry each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown color, creating a crunchy exterior.

Step 6: Drain and Season

Remove fried tomato slices and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an extra flavor boost.

Step 7: Assemble Delicious Sandwich

Build your sandwich using toasted bread or your favorite bread type.

• Crisp lettuce
• Tangy mayonnaise
• Sliced cheese
• Bacon (optional)

Enjoy your delectable Southern-style sandwich immediately while the tomatoes are still warm and crispy.

Tips for Crispy Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches

• Cut green tomatoes uniformly to ensure consistent cooking and crispy texture in every bite.
• Maintain medium heat to prevent burning and achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without absorbing excess oil.
• Let fried tomatoes rest on paper towels to remove extra oil and keep the sandwich crisp and not soggy.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends like smoked paprika or Old Bay for unique flavor profiles.
• Add creamy spreads like remoulade or herb aioli to complement the crispy tomato's tangy texture.

Variations on Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches

• Vegan Southern Comfort: Replace eggs with aquafaba or chickpea flour batter. Use dairy-free mayo and plant-based bread for a completely vegan version.
• Gluten-Free Crispy Alternative: Swap wheat flour with gluten-free cornmeal or almond flour. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for extra crunch and skip traditional wheat bread.
• Herb-Infused Garden Style: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the cornmeal coating. Mix chopped rosemary or parsley into the flour mixture for enhanced flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Southern Spin: Replace bread with large lettuce leaves as wrap. Use almond flour instead of cornmeal for coating and reduce overall carbohydrate content.

Serving Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches

• Southern Picnic Delight: Pack these sandwiches in a classic wicker basket for a charming outdoor lunch with friends and family.
• Brunch Spectacular: Serve alongside crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit for a delightful weekend morning meal.
• Dipping Magic: Pair with remoulade sauce, tangy ranch, or spicy comeback sauce to elevate the sandwich's flavor profile and add extra zest.
• Veggie Twist: Replace traditional bread with lettuce wraps for a low-carb option that keeps the crispy tomato as the star of the show.

Storing Leftover Fried Green Tomato Sandwiches

• Store fried green tomato sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Wrap individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
• Separate tomato slices with parchment paper before freezing. Place in freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality.
• Preheat to 375°F, place sandwich on baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy texture.
• Warm sandwich in lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, restoring original crunchiness.

Fried Green Tomato Sandwich Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern charm meets culinary creativity in this fried green tomato sandwich, blending crispy, tangy tomato slices with creamy remoulade and fresh herbs. Cool summer flavors and Southern hospitality shine through each delicious bite you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium green tomatoes, sliced 1/2-inch thick
• 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole buttermilk

Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon Creole Cajun Seasoning
• Hot sauce, to taste
• Flaky salt, for garnishing (optional)

Cooking Ingredient:

• Peanut oil, for frying

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Instructions

1. Prepare a large skillet and warm peanut oil to medium heat, ensuring even temperature distribution.
2. Create a crispy coating station by combining flour, cornmeal, and Cajun seasoning in a shallow dish.
3. Prepare a separate bowl with whisked eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce for dredging.
4. Carefully coat each tomato slice first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and return to the flour mixture for a double-layered crisp coating.
5. Gently place breaded tomato slices into the hot oil, cooking approximately 2-3 minutes per side until achieving a rich golden-brown color and crispy exterior.
6. Transfer fried tomatoes onto paper towels to absorb excess oil, then lightly sprinkle with flaky salt for enhanced flavor.
7. Assemble sandwich by layering the crispy fried green tomatoes between bread slices, adding preferred condiments like remoulade, lettuce, or cheese to complement the tangy tomato flavor.

Notes

• Chill tomato slices before breading to help coating stick better and prevent soggy texture.
• Experiment with gluten-free flour or almond meal for a low-carb alternative that maintains crispy crunch.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for more even heat distribution and superior golden-brown exterior on tomato slices.
• Add fresh herbs like basil or chives to breading mixture for extra flavor complexity and aromatic profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern United States

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 560 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg