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This is a super simple, frugal recipe for Fried Green Tomatoes. This is a perfect starter recipe for those who have never made fried green tomatoes before. You can use orange or red tomatoes as long as they are still really firm.
Slice the tomatoes, I prefer them to be around 1/4 inch thick. Season each side with salt and pepper, or garlic pepper. For a spicier version, try Cajun or Creole seasoning.
Place cornmeal in a bowl; dip and coat each tomato slice until thoroughly coated. Allow to sit for a couple of minutes and re-coat if needed. Most recipes call for the tomatoes to be dipped in an egg wash, milk, or buttermilk before dipping in the cornmeal. For this frugal recipe, there is no need for batters or dips. Salting both sides of the slices and allowing the cornmeal to sit for a few minutes before frying creates the breading.

Fry till just past golden. I’ve previously fried them using both bacon fat and butter, both are yummy.
All-purpose flour can be substituted for the cornmeal or Jiffy Cornbread Muffin mix for a sweeter taste.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large green tomatoes
- ½ cup cornmeal, or more as needed
- salt and pepper
- ¼ cup vegetable oil, more as needed
Instructions
- Cut tomatoes around ¼ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper (if you like spicy use Cajun or Creole seasoning).
- Place cornmeal (flour or Jiffy Cornbread Muffin mix can be sub'd) in a bowl; dip and coat each tomato slice until thoroughly coated. Allow to sit for a few minutes before frying.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place coated tomato slices in the hot oil; fry until the coating is browned and crusty. 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining tomato slices, add more oil if needed.
Nutrition
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- Jiffy Cornbread Muffin Mix is made from freshly milled corn
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- Just add egg and milk
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