Brenda Gantt Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

Brenda Gantt Fried green tomatoes are a Southern culinary classic, cherished for their crispy exterior and tangy, slightly tart flavor.

This iconic dish has made its mark as a beloved appetizer or side dish, offering a delightful twist on traditional tomato preparations.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this fried green tomatoes recipe is sure to bring a touch of Southern comfort to your table.

How To Make Brenda Gantt Fried Green Tomatoes?

Ingredients:

• 4 large green tomatoes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Selecting the Tomatoes: Choose firm, unripe green tomatoes for frying. They should be slightly firm to the touch with a vibrant green color.
2. Preparation: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
3. Creating the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
4. Whisking the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined. This mixture will serve as the wet component of the breading.
5. Breading the Tomatoes: Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).Take each tomato slice and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Next, dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tomato slice in the flour mixture once again, pressing the coating onto the surface.
6. Frying: Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Draining Excess Oil: Once fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the tomatoes to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil.
8. Seasoning and Serving: While the tomatoes are still warm, sprinkle them with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Serve the fried green tomatoes immediately as an appetizer or side dish.
9. Dipping Sauce (Optional): Consider pairing your fried green tomatoes with a tasty dipping sauce like remoulade, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for an extra layer of flavor.

Also Check Out: Red Lobster Mussels Recipe

Benefits of Brenda Gantt Fried Green Tomatoes:

• Authentic Southern Flavors: Brenda Gantt’s Fried Green Tomatoes capture the essence of traditional Southern cuisine, offering an authentic and time-tested flavor profile. The combination of crispiness on the outside and the tangy, slightly tart green tomatoes creates a taste experience that transports you to the heart of the South.
• Simple and Approachable Recipe: Brenda Gantt’s recipe provides a straightforward and approachable way to make this beloved Southern dish. With easily accessible ingredients and clear instructions, even those new to the kitchen can confidently recreate the crispy perfection of fried green tomatoes.
• Versatile Side Dish or Appetizer: One of the benefits of Brenda Gantt’s Fried Green Tomatoes is their versatility. Whether served as a side dish accompanying a main course or as a standalone appetizer, these tomatoes add a burst of flavor and texture to any meal, making them a welcome addition to diverse dining occasions.
• Family-Tested and Approved: Brenda Gantt’s recipes often come with a sense of familial warmth and tradition. Her Fried Green Tomatoes, in particular, are likely to have been tested and enjoyed by generations, making them a reliable and cherished dish that brings people together at the dining table.
• Crispy Perfection Every Time: One of the standout benefits of Brenda Gantt’s Fried Green Tomatoes is the promise of achieving crispy perfection with every batch. The careful combination of coating ingredients and frying techniques ensures a delightful crunch in every bite, making these tomatoes a consistently satisfying and enjoyable treat for family and friends alike.

Nutrition Facts of Brenda Gantt Fried Green Tomatoes:

It’s important to note that providing specific nutrition facts requires precise measurements of ingredients, and the nutritional content can vary based on factors like portion size and specific product brands used.

However, I can offer a general overview of the nutrition aspects of fried green tomatoes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximately 4 slices):

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Total Fat: 12-15g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5-2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 50-60mg
• Sodium: 400-500mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugars: 2-3g
• Protein: 3-5g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the size of the tomatoes, the thickness of the coating, and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. Additionally, these values do not include any dipping sauces or additional condiments.

Nutritional Highlights:

1. Moderate Caloric Content: Fried green tomatoes are moderately calorific, making them suitable for inclusion in a balanced diet. However, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes to manage caloric intake.
2. Healthy Fats: While fried foods typically contain fats, the use of vegetable oil for frying provides unsaturated fats, which are considered healthier than saturated fats. Be cautious with portion sizes to moderate fat intake.
3. Moderate Sodium Levels: The sodium content may vary based on factors like added salt in the coating. While moderate sodium is acceptable in a balanced diet, individuals with specific dietary restrictions should monitor their intake.
4. Source of Dietary Fiber: The inclusion of green tomatoes provides some dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health and providing a sense of fullness.
5. Protein Source: Fried green tomatoes offer a modest amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.

Keep in mind that these values are general estimates, and for more precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use specific ingredient measurements and consult with a nutritionist or use a nutritional analysis tool.

Conclusion:

Fried green tomatoes are a delightful and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Southern cuisine. This simple recipe allows you to recreate this classic favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce, these crispy green tomato slices are sure to become a cherished addition to your repertoire of go-to recipes.