This post may contain affiliate links, Please see my disclosure policy to learn more.

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.

Print Recipe

Fried Green Tomatoes

Course: Side Dish

Servings:

Calories: 220kcal

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

Bestseller No. 1

Bob's Red Mill Organic Medium Grind Cornmeal, 24 OZ

Bestseller No. 1

Duncan Hines Dolly Parton's Sweet Cornbread & Muffin Mix, 16 oz.

One 16 oz. box of Duncan Hines Dolly Parton's Sweet Cornbread & Muffin Mix
Deliciously buttery cornbread and muffin baking mix
Featuring Dolly Parton's Favorite Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe on box
Ideal for creating moist and irresistible side dishes
Stock up today on the sweet combination of Duncan Hines and Dolly Parton

Bestseller No. 1

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet - PFAS-Free, Non-Toxic Cookware - Use with an Oven, Stove, Grill, or Campfire - Naturally Non-Stick & Oven Safe - 10.25 Inches

Quality Cast Iron Frying Pan: The Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet is loved for its great heat retention, incredible durability, and ability to make almost any recipe you dream up
Naturally Seasoned for Non-Stick Finish: Each pre-seasoned skillet arrives ready to use with a smooth non-stick finish that cooks evenly and improves with every use, perfect for eggs, meats, and more
Heavy-Duty & Long-Lasting: This cast iron frying pan is crafted for durability and multipurpose use, with an easy-grip teardrop handle designed for comfort and control
Versatile & Multipurpose: This versatile cooking skillet is oven safe, stovetop compatible, and ideal as a camping cooking pan
About Lodge Cast Iron: Made in the USA, Lodge cookware is versatile and as easy to clean as it is to cook with; taste a difference in your cooking with cast iron

SaleBestseller No. 2

SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 12 Inch Large Deep Frying Pan, 5 Qt Non Stick Saute Pan with Cover, Induction Pan, Healthy Non Toxic Cooking Pan with Helper Handle, PFOA PFOS Free

HEALTHY SKILLET - Switzerland ILAG nonstick surface. Free of PFOA, PFOS, lead, cadmium and other toxic materials that can leach into food, safe & healthy.
SUPER NONSTICK - The surface of the saute pan with lid is smooth and super nonstick, pancakes just slide right off the pan effortless. Only less oil is needed for cooking, for a healthy, low-fat diet.
INDUCTION COMPATIBLE - The nonstick deep frying pan is made of heavy-duty cast aluminum that won't warp. Its induction base is suitable for all stovetops, including induction cooktop, and it heats fast and evenly.
HEAT RESISTANT HANDLE & TEMPERED GLASS LID - The bakelite handle of the ceramic non toxic frying pan with lid features woodgrain design, and it is comfortable to grip and stays cool while cooking. The explosion-proof glass lid prevents splashing and ensures maximum visibility.
EASY TO CLEAN - The nonstick surface and no rivets design make the non toxic frying pan with lid easy to clean in seconds with a towel, soap and warm water. Recommend hand wash to extend the non stick surface life.