Fried Green Tomatoes

The first time I ever had fried green tomatoes, I was about 11 years old. We lived in a little townhouse, where we had some great neighbors who looked out for each other. I had gone over to visit one such neighbor, Judy, who had just finished making fried green tomatoes, when she asked if I’d like one. I told her matter-of-factly that I did not like tomatoes. She insisted that fried green tomatoes tasted nothing like their sweeter red counterparts, and I gave in. In case you ever see this, I need to say – thank you. Thank you so very much Judy. Mmmmm.

My favorite summer food, for sure. I don’t know why it took me until September to get around to make them this year. However, at my mom’s annual Forth of July cookout, my cousin Christa’s boyfriend Thad suggested I try using club soda in the batter to make them more light and crispy, so I wanted to give it a shot, and were they ever delicious. Thanks for the tip, Thad! Or you could try a lemon-lime flavored soda if you don’t have club soda handy – it’s really the carbonation you need. In fact, I may or may not have done this very thing. Don’t tell Thad. But I might have forgotten to get club soda while I was at the store, and just maybe had a 7-up in the pantry. And perhaps I didn’t feel like making a 45-minute round trip to the store for club soda. We live a ways out.

Club-Soda Fried Green Tomatoes
2-3 firm green tomatoes
Corn Meal
Flour
Salt
Pepper
Club Soda
Buttermilk
1 egg
Vegetable Oil

Slice the tomatoes evenly. I like thin slices, but it’s really a matter of personal preference. In a bowl, combine equal parts flour and corn meal. Add some salt and pepper and stir.

In another bowl, add one beaten egg and equal parts (you only need a few ounces) buttermilk and club soda.

Dip the tomato slices in the liquid mixture first, then coat with the flour/cornmeal mixture. Set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, add a couple tablespoons of oil. Fry tomatoes for a few minutes on each side until golden brown. You can add more oil as needed as you fry additional batches.

Serve hot. Enjoy!