Oh my goodness, let me tell you about fried red tomatoes! There’s just something about that crispy coating giving way to juicy, flavorful tomatoes that makes my heart sing. This recipe is so simple yet absolutely delicious that you’ll find yourself making it time and time again! I remember enjoying these at summer barbecues, where they’d disappear almost as quickly as I could fry them up. Seriously, whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a snack, fried red tomatoes are a must-try. Trust me, they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Ingredients List
To whip up the most delightful fried red tomatoes, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 large ripe red tomatoes – Look for ones that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This will be our magic coating for that crispy exterior.
- 1 teaspoon salt – A little salt goes a long way in enhancing the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just enough to add a hint of spice!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For that extra layer of flavor you won’t want to miss.
- 1 cup vegetable oil – This is what will give those tomatoes that golden, crunchy finish.
Make sure to have everything ready, and you’ll be frying in no time!
How to Prepare *Fried Red Tomatoes*
Getting these fried red tomatoes just right is a delightful process that you’ll absolutely love! Let’s take it step by step, so you can enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness in no time.
Preparing the Tomatoes
Start by slicing those beautiful tomatoes into thick rounds, about half an inch thick. This thickness helps them hold their shape and flavor while frying. Trust me, using ripe tomatoes is key here; they’re sweet and juicy, and they’ll shine in every bite!
Mixing the Flour Mixture
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir it all together until evenly mixed. This is your secret weapon for achieving that perfect crispy coating, so make sure it’s well blended—no lumps allowed!
Heating the Oil
Now, grab a frying pan and pour in the vegetable oil, heating it over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking—about 350°F (175°C) is ideal. A good test is to drop a small pinch of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
Dredging and Frying
Take each tomato slice and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s well coated. Then gently place the slices in the hot oil, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them some room to breathe for that perfect fry!
Draining and Serving
Once they’re beautifully golden, use a slotted spoon to remove the fried tomatoes and let them drain on paper towels. Serve them hot, either as a scrumptious side dish or a delicious snack. They’re irresistible right out of the pan!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings!
- Delicious Flavor: The sweet and juicy tomatoes combined with the crispy coating create a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy them as a side dish, snack, or even a topping for burgers and sandwiches!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, they’re always a hit!
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist these tasty bites!
Trust me, once you try these fried red tomatoes, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! These fried red tomatoes are not just tasty; they’re also relatively light. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit based on the exact ingredients you use, but it’s a tasty and satisfying treat!
Tips for Success
To make your fried red tomatoes truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t be shy with the seasoning; feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste. A pinch more garlic powder can also elevate the flavor. Next, ensure your oil is at the right temperature—too cool, and they’ll soak up oil; too hot, and they’ll burn. Keeping a close eye is crucial! Lastly, serve them immediately for that delightful crunch. If you have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to keep the crispiness intact.
FAQ Section
Got questions about fried red tomatoes? I’ve got answers! Here are a few common queries:
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While red tomatoes are my go-to, you can use green tomatoes or even heirloom varieties for different flavors and textures.
What can I serve with fried tomatoes?
They’re fantastic on their own, but you can pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or aioli. They also make a great topping on burgers or sandwiches!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven to get that crispiness back!
Fried Red Tomatoes: 2 Crispy Secrets You Must Try
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and tasty dish made with fried red tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 large red tomatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds.
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Dredge each tomato slice in the flour mixture.
- Fry the tomato slices until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve as a side or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: fried red tomatoes
