Fried green tomatoes are a beloved staple of Southern cuisine. Their crispy, golden-brown exterior with a soft, tangy center makes them an iconic appetizer or side dish. But once you’ve prepared these tasty bites, what’s the best way to serve them? Should they stand alone as the star of a meal, or do they work best paired with other elements that complement their unique flavor?
In this guide, we’ll explore a wide range of sauces, sides, and main courses that you can serve with fried green tomatoes. We’ll also dive into the cultural significance of this dish, explore variations across different regions, and answer some commonly asked questions. Whether you’re preparing fried green tomatoes for the first time or are a seasoned pro looking for new ideas, you’ll find a wealth of inspiration here.
The Story Behind Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are quintessentially Southern, but their origins are a bit more complex. While many associate them with deep South cooking, their roots are believed to trace back to early Jewish settlers in America who brought similar dishes from Eastern Europe. Fried green tomatoes gained popularity through Southern cuisine, thanks in part to their frequent inclusion in Southern cookbooks and widespread restaurant offerings.
The dish really entered popular culture with the 1991 movie adaptation of Fannie Flagg’s novel, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, which not only immortalized this delicacy but also brought it to the forefront of American comfort food. Since then, fried green tomatoes have become a culinary icon, symbolizing the warmth and simplicity of Southern hospitality.
Classic Sauces and Dips to Serve with Fried Green Tomatoes
A good sauce is the difference between a tasty appetizer and a truly unforgettable one. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular dipping sauces that bring out the best in fried green tomatoes:
1. Remoulade Sauce
Remoulade is the gold standard for serving with fried green tomatoes. This mayonnaise-based sauce is rich, creamy, and tangy, with just the right amount of spice to balance the tartness of the green tomatoes. Typically made with a mix of mustard, garlic, paprika, and hot sauce, remoulade offers a zesty kick that elevates the dish to new levels.
- Recipe Tip: Make sure to use fresh lemon juice to give your remoulade a bright, fresh taste that works harmoniously with the fried green tomatoes.
2. Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
Nothing quite says comfort like a buttermilk ranch dip. It’s cool, creamy, and familiar, providing a nice counterbalance to the crispy texture of the fried tomatoes. This dip can easily be made at home with buttermilk, mayonnaise, fresh herbs like dill and chives, and a bit of lemon juice.
- Why It Works: The herbs in ranch dressing add depth of flavor, while the acidity from the buttermilk complements the tomatoes perfectly.
3. Green Goddess Dressing
Green goddess dressing is an herbaceous, savory dip that pairs wonderfully with fried green tomatoes. Made with a blend of parsley, tarragon, chives, and a bit of anchovy for umami depth, it’s ideal for those who want a fresh, light flavor to balance out the fried richness.
4. Hollandaise Sauce with Lump Crabmeat
If you’re aiming for something a little more upscale, consider serving fried green tomatoes topped with a rich hollandaise sauce and lump crabmeat. The creamy hollandaise adds an indulgent touch, while the crabmeat offers a light, seafood flair that’s perfect for a special occasion.
5. Honey Mustard or Sweet Chili Sauce
For those who enjoy a sweet and tangy twist, honey mustard or sweet chili sauce makes an excellent pairing. These sauces highlight the inherent tanginess of the green tomatoes while adding a contrasting element of sweetness, making each bite interesting.
6. Pimento Cheese Spread
Pimento cheese, often called the “caviar of the South,” makes an unexpectedly great dip for fried green tomatoes. This combination plays on textures—crispy tomato, creamy and slightly grainy pimento spread—and flavors that are quintessentially Southern.
Side Dishes to Complement Fried Green Tomatoes
Once you have your dipping sauces figured out, the next question is what sides work best with fried green tomatoes. Here are some of the best pairings to make a complete meal:
1. Corn Salsa
Corn salsa is bright, fresh, and packed with flavor. The sweetness of the corn, the slight heat from the jalapeños, and the acidity of the lime juice create a side that is both refreshing and exciting. The contrasting textures crispy fried green tomatoes and juicy corn kernels—keep every bite lively.
- Recipe Addition: Consider adding diced bell peppers and red onions for extra crunch and color.
2. Black-Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas are a Southern comfort classic, and they make an excellent companion to fried green tomatoes. Their earthy flavor provides a grounding counterbalance to the acidity of the tomatoes, and they also add a source of protein to your meal.
3. Cornbread
A slice of warm cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to fried green tomatoes. Its sweetness and crumbly texture offer a delightful contrast, turning a simple plate of fried tomatoes into a comforting, hearty meal.
- Serving Suggestion: Brush your cornbread with melted butter and a drizzle of honey for added richness that complements the tartness of the tomatoes.
4. Roasted Vegetables
To add a nutritious and colorful side, consider roasted vegetables. A mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil and herbs adds a touch of lightness that’s perfect alongside fried green tomatoes. Their slightly caramelized edges enhance the overall flavor of your meal without overpowering it.
5. Potatoes – Mashed or Roasted
Whether you prefer mashed potatoes or crispy roasted wedges, potatoes are a comforting choice. Mashed potatoes, with their smooth creaminess, add a satisfying contrast to the crunchy tomatoes, while roasted potatoes provide extra crispiness that pairs nicely.
- Roasting Tip: Season the potatoes with rosemary and garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Coleslaw
A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw can bring an element of crunch and acidity to the meal, helping to cut through the richness of fried green tomatoes. This cool, fresh side dish keeps the meal balanced and light, perfect for a hot summer day.
7. Pimento Cheese Grits
Grits are another beloved Southern side, and when mixed with pimento cheese, they become even more flavorful. Creamy, cheesy grits provide the perfect soft contrast to the crisp bite of fried green tomatoes, creating a harmonious texture blend.
Main Dishes That Pair Well with Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes aren’t just for appetizers they make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:
1. Fried Chicken
Nothing is more iconic than pairing fried green tomatoes with fried chicken. The golden crust on both dishes creates a cohesive dining experience, and the flavors complement each other perfectly, showcasing the best of Southern cooking.
2. Pork Chops
Pork chops, with their rich, savory flavor, pair exceptionally well with the tanginess of fried green tomatoes. Whether you choose to grill, bake, or fry the chops, this main dish brings out the best in the tomatoes, making for a hearty, well-rounded meal.
- Serving Suggestion: Top the pork chops with a bit of apple compote for an added layer of sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
3. Grilled or Baked Fish
For a lighter option, serve fried green tomatoes with grilled or baked fish. The delicate flavor of fish like cod or tilapia pairs nicely with the bold flavor of the tomatoes, allowing both elements to shine without overpowering each other.
4. Chicken in Green Tomato and Chipotle Sauce
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, chicken cooked in a green tomato and chipotle sauce is a dynamic pairing. The sauce, with its smoky heat, echoes the tang of the fried tomatoes, creating a cohesive, flavorful experience.
5. Steak
A juicy steak with fried green tomatoes as a side can make for a luxurious meal. The richness of the steak is offset by the tart, crisp fried tomatoes, and together they create an indulgent yet balanced dish.
6. Seafood (Shrimp or Crab)
The coastal flavors of shrimp or crab are perfect with fried green tomatoes. Serve the seafood grilled or sautéed with garlic and butter to create a meal that celebrates the flavors of the South. The fried green tomatoes add a crunchy, tangy element that contrasts with the tender, juicy seafood.
- Special Idea: Make a shrimp po’ boy with fried green tomatoes in place of regular tomatoes for an extra layer of texture.
Unique Ways to Use Fried Green Tomatoes
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many creative ways to incorporate fried green tomatoes into your meals. Here are some unique dishes where these tomatoes shine:
1. Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
Transform your traditional BLT by swapping in fried green tomatoes for the usual red ones. The crispy coating and tangy flavor take the sandwich to new heights, offering more texture and a unique taste.
- Sandwich Tip: Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
2. Egg or Sausage Biscuit Wraps
Fried green tomatoes are a perfect addition to breakfast wraps or biscuit sandwiches. They bring a savory crunch to morning dishes, pairing well with scrambled eggs, cheese, or breakfast sausage.
3. Ricotta and Squash Blossom Lasagna
Incorporate fried green tomatoes into a vegetarian lasagna for an unexpected twist. Their acidity and texture offer a lovely contrast to creamy ricotta and delicate squash blossoms.
4. Tacos or Wraps
Use fried green tomatoes in tacos or wraps for a Southern-inspired twist. They make a wonderful filling alongside spicy chicken, black beans, or avocado, adding both crunch and a burst of flavor.
5. Salad Topping
Fried green tomatoes can also be served as a crunchy salad topping. Place them on a bed of mixed greens, topped with a vinaigrette or ranch dressing. They bring a hearty element to the salad, making it more filling while still keeping it fresh.
FAQs.
What to Eat with Fried Green Tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes can be enjoyed in many different ways paired with dips like remoulade or ranch, served alongside sides like cornbread and black-eyed peas, or even incorporated into creative dishes like sandwiches and wraps.
What is the Best Way to Eat Green Tomatoes?
The best way to enjoy green tomatoes is by frying them. The crispy coating provides a great texture contrast, and the tangy flavor of the tomato shines through when fried.
What Makes Fried Green Tomatoes Special?
The combination of the tangy, firm green tomato with a crispy, flavorful coating makes fried green tomatoes a unique dish. They bring together a variety of flavors—acidic, salty, and sometimes even a hint of spice.
How Healthy Are Fried Green Tomatoes?
While fried foods aren’t always the healthiest option, green tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C. To make a healthier version, you could try air frying or baking the tomatoes instead of deep frying them.
Can Fried Green Tomatoes Be Used in Vegetarian Dishes?
Absolutely ! Fried green tomatoes are a great ingredient for vegetarian meals, from serving as a meat substitute in sandwiches to being the star in a lasagna.
What Drinks Pair Best with Fried Green Tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes pair beautifully with sweet tea, lemonade, or a light white wine. The acidity of the tomatoes is balanced nicely by sweet and refreshing drinks, creating a complete Southern culinary experience.
Tips for Serving Fried Green Tomatoes
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the crispiness of fried green tomatoes, serve them right after frying. If left to sit, they can become soggy.
- Avoid Reheating: Reheating fried green tomatoes often results in a loss of their signature crunch. If you need to reheat them, consider using an oven or air fryer.
- Pairing with Beverages: Fried green tomatoes are best served with beverages like sweet tea or lemonade to balance their tangy flavor.
Conclusion
Fried green tomatoes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you pair them with classic Southern sides like cornbread and black-eyed peas or elevate them with luxurious sauces like hollandaise with lump crabmeat, the possibilities are endless. Their crisp, tangy flavor makes them an exciting addition to almost any meal.
Don’t be afraid to get creative whether it’s incorporating them into a BLT, adding them to a taco, or simply serving them with a refreshing green goddess dip. The beauty of fried green tomatoes lies in their adaptability and their ability to bring Southern warmth to any table.
So grab some fresh green tomatoes, heat up the skillet, and explore the many wonderful ways to enjoy this Southern classic!