Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade Sauce: A Southern Classic
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomatoes are a beloved dish that originated in the Southern United States. Traditionally made with unripe tomatoes, this dish showcases the unique flavor of green tomatoes, which are firmer and tangier than their ripe counterparts. The dish gained widespread popularity in the 1980s, particularly after the release of the novel and film “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe.” Today, it remains a staple in Southern cuisine, often served with a creamy Remoulade sauce that perfectly complements the crispy tomatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The crunchy coating paired with the tangy green tomatoes creates a delightful texture and taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices in the Remoulade sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Variations
- Spicy Fried Green Tomatoes: Add cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture for an extra kick.
- Herbed Remoulade: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the Remoulade for added flavor.
- Cheesy Version: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the cornmeal for a cheesy crust.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour and cornmeal with gluten-free alternatives.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked, breaded tomatoes for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen when ready to eat.
Leftovers
- Make a delicious sandwich with leftover fried green tomatoes, lettuce, and Remoulade sauce.
- Chop and mix with scrambled eggs for a flavorful breakfast.
- Top a salad with sliced fried green tomatoes for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
While you can use ripe tomatoes, the texture and flavor will differ. Green tomatoes are firmer and have a tangy taste that is ideal for frying.
What is Remoulade sauce?
Remoulade is a creamy sauce made with mayonnaise, mustard, herbs, and spices. It’s often served as a condiment for fried foods.
Can I make the Remoulade sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Remoulade sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.
How do I know when the tomatoes are done frying?
Fried green tomatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. They should be cooked for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade Sauce Recipe
Learn how to make delicious Fried Green Tomatoes served with a tangy Remoulade Sauce. This classic Southern dish is perfect for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Fried Green Tomatoes:
- 2 large green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Remoulade Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Remoulade Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, capers, and parsley.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prepare the Fried Green Tomatoes:
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
- Dip each tomato slice into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the tomatoes in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve:
- Serve the fried green tomatoes hot with a side of Remoulade sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | 250 |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Protein | 5g |
Recipe Notes
- For extra crunch, double-dip the tomatoes in the egg mixture and flour mixture.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent sogginess.
- Feel free to adjust the spices in the Remoulade to suit your taste.
- Use fresh green tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade Sauce is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a snack, this recipe is sure to impress. With its crispy exterior and tangy sauce, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Try making this classic recipe today and savor the flavors of the South!
