Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Ingredients

• 4 large green tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Ranch dressing or remoulade sauce for serving

Instructions

1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pour the buttermilk into another shallow dish.
3. Dip each green tomato slice into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the flour-cornmeal mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Shake off any excess and place the coated slices on a clean plate.
5. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6. Carefully place the coated green tomato slices into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
7. Fry the green tomatoes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the fried green tomatoes from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
9. Serve the Southern fried green tomatoes hot, garnished with chopped parsley and accompanied by ranch dressing or remoulade sauce for dipping.

Bite into the crispy, tangy goodness of these Southern fried green tomatoes and let the flavors transport you to a simpler time, where the sun-drenched porches of the South are filled with laughter, stories, and the irresistible aroma of this classic comfort food!