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Crispy Classic Southern Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe with Spicy Comeback Sauce

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A crispy, tangy southern classic featuring fried green tomatoes with a spicy, creamy comeback sauce. Perfect for summer snacks or sides with a flavorful crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium green tomatoes, firm and unripe
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal (finer grind preferred)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar as substitute)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups; peanut or canola oil recommended)
  • For the Spicy Comeback Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the green tomatoes. Slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Lightly sprinkle both sides with salt and let rest on a paper towel for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, beat eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
  3. Dip each tomato slice first in the flour mixture, shake off excess, then dip into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Place coated slices on a wire rack.
  4. Pour oil into a cast-iron skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a pinch of flour in; it should bubble immediately but not smoke.
  5. Fry tomato slices in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Flip gently with tongs. Drain on a wire rack to keep crispiness.
  6. While frying, whisk together all comeback sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve fried green tomatoes hot with spicy comeback sauce on the side or drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for best results. Double-dip tomato slices for a thick, crispy crust. Drain fried tomatoes on a wire rack to avoid sogginess. The comeback sauce can be made a day ahead for better flavor. For gluten-free, substitute flour and cornmeal with certified gluten-free versions. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and plant-based milk alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried green tomatoes, southern recipe, comeback sauce, crispy fried tomatoes, summer recipe, southern comfort food

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/crispy-classic-southern-fried-green-tomatoes-recipe-with-spicy-comeback-sauce-perfect-for-summer/