Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes with dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Fried green tomatoes, while often associated with the South, have a somewhat unclear origin story. Some believe they originated in the Northeastern United States, while others claim a Southern origin, possibly as a resourceful way to use unripe tomatoes. The popularity of the dish was significantly boosted by the 1991 novel and film 'Fried Green Tomatoes,' cementing its place in Southern culinary identity. Pimento cheese and chow chow are both staples of Southern cuisine, bringing additional layers of flavor and texture.
Fried Green Tomatoes, especially when paired with pimento cheese and chow chow, is deeply intertwined with Southern identity and hospitality.
Southern Resourcefulness
The dish embodies Southern resourcefulness, making use of unripe tomatoes that might otherwise be discarded. It speaks to a culture of making the most of available ingredients.
Community and Sharing
Fried green tomatoes are often shared at gatherings and potlucks, representing a sense of community and Southern hospitality. It's a dish that brings people together.
Culinary Heritage
The combination of fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese, and chow chow showcases the rich culinary heritage of the South, blending different flavors and textures that reflect the region's diverse influences.
The dish offers a delightful combination of tartness, creamy richness, and tangy spice.
The fried green tomatoes themselves provide a tart and slightly acidic base, enhanced by the crispy, savory coating. Pimento cheese contributes a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy counterpoint, while chow chow adds a sweet, sour, and crunchy element with its mix of pickled vegetables.
Tomato Selection
Choose firm, green tomatoes that are not too ripe. They should be firm to the touch and have a slightly tart flavor.
Breading Technique
Use a three-stage breading process (flour, egg wash, breadcrumbs/cornmeal) for even coating and optimal crispiness. Season each layer for enhanced flavor.
Frying Temperature
Maintain a consistent oil temperature (around 350-375°F) to ensure even cooking and prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Pimento Cheese
Use high quality cheddar cheese and pimentos for the best flavor and texture in your pimento cheese. Some recipes also include cream cheese and mayonnaise.
Chow Chow
Homemade chow chow is usually preferred, however, high quality store bought versions can be used as well. The recipe for chow chow varies by region, so find one that matches your preference.
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