Vegan Fried Green Tomatoes offer a delicious twist on a classic Southern comfort food. This recipe provides a simple way to create crispy, flavorful slices of green tomatoes that are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Fried green tomatoes are a staple on Southern tables for a reason – they’re incredibly satisfying! This vegan version delivers all the same crispy goodness and tangy flavor without the use of eggs or dairy. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or simply looking for new ways to enjoy vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients for the Best Vegan Fried Green Tomatoes
Green tomatoes on a cutting board- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Plant-based milk, as needed
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vegan Fried Green Tomatoes
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Prep the Tomatoes: Wash and slice the green tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better and ensures crispy results.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pro Tip from Chef Anya Sharma: “For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dry mixture.”
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Create the Batter: Gradually whisk in enough plant-based milk to the dry ingredients to form a batter with a pancake-like consistency. You want it to be thick enough to coat the tomatoes but not too runny.
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Heat the Oil: Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, carefully sprinkle a small drop of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready.
Dipping a green tomato slice into batter -
Coat and Fry: Dip each tomato slice into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently place the coated slices into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Cook to Perfection: Fry the tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the fried green tomatoes from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Plated vegan fried green tomatoes
Dipping a green tomato slice into batter
Plated vegan fried green tomatoesVegan Fried Green Tomato FAQs
What should I serve with vegan fried green tomatoes?
These versatile treats can be enjoyed in countless ways! They’re delicious on their own as a snack or appetizer, but you can also serve them as a side dish with your favorite vegan burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Can I bake the tomatoes instead of frying them?
While frying produces the crispiest results, you can bake the tomatoes for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet and place the coated tomato slices on it. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Can I make vegan fried green tomatoes ahead of time?
For best results, enjoy your fried green tomatoes immediately after cooking. However, you can prepare the batter and slice the tomatoes up to a few hours ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine right before frying.
What kind of plant-based milk works best for the batter?
Unsweetened almond milk or soy milk are great choices for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other varieties you have on hand. Avoid using sweetened plant milks, as they can burn easily during frying.
Can I freeze leftover vegan fried green tomatoes?
While not ideal, you can freeze leftover fried green tomatoes. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
A Taste of the South, Made Vegan
This vegan fried green tomatoes recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort food in a plant-based and utterly delicious way. Simple to make yet big on flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion.
