"computer love" smoked and fried green tomatoes

Get ready to groove with our Smoked and Fried Green Tomatoes paired with a zesty Roasted Red Pepper Sauce! Picture this: crispy fried green tomatoes, tangy and kissed by smoke, fried to golden perfection, all while funky basslines play in the background.

The smoky depth meets the crunch in a harmonious dance, and then the beat drops with a splash of roasted red pepper sauce, adding a sweet and spicy kick that’ll make your taste buds boogie.

This dish is a culinary jam session, bringing the funk straight to your plate. Turn up the flavor, turn up the funk, and let’s get cooking. This is a southern fried green tomatoes recipe.

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• Smoked Carrots
• Smoked Pork Belly
• Smoked Rib Tips

How about smoking these fried green tomatoes before dropping them in the fryer! Yeah, I did that, cause it’s a new day!

These are slightly tender in the center with an amazing crunchy exterior. They are seasoned to perfection and make for a great appetizer at a party. People will be talking about it!

Fried green tomatoes are right there almost with collard greens as one of those soul food staples. Pretty much every Southern household has a recipe.

This is a simple tweak on a Southern classic that pays big dividends. The smoke flavor is subtle, but present and along with the light crunchy crust separates this fried green tomatoes recipe from others.

Beats and Eats (mood music to pair with fried green tomatoes)

Whenever I come across green tomatoes, I grab 'em, no hesitation! The love is real and intense.

Zapp's song "Computer Love" is a great pairing for fried green tomatoes.

"Computer Love" has a smooth, funky groove that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Fried green tomatoes, a Southern classic, evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making them a perfect match. The smoke adds some real deal funk.

The song’s blend of electronic and soulful elements offers a unique contrast. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, tangy interior of the fried green tomatoes mirrors this blend, creating a harmonious pairing.

Fried Green Tomatoes Ingredients

• Green Tomatoes
• Buttermilk
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Corn Meal
• Paprika
• Cayenne
• Garlic Powder
• Dried Thyme
• Kosher Salt
• Pepper
• Onion Powder
• Vegetable oil or peanut for frying.
• Hot sauce (optional)

How to Fry Green Tomatoes (Step by Step)

Step 1: Salt the tomatoes if they're somewhat ripe to draw out some of the moisture. Let sit 15-30 minutes. If unripe, fully green skip this step

Step 2: smoke tomatoes at 225 degrees for 10-15 minutes

Step 3: dredge the tomatoes in the flour mixed with ⅓ of the seasoning mix

Step 4: dip in tomatoes in egg wash (beaten eggs + buttermilk) and then coat with cornmeal

Step 5: Place tomatoes in fryer at 350 degrees for 3-4 minutes. let rest and season

What To Serve With Fried Green Tomatoes

I like to season these with the remaining spice mix then top them with a roasted red pepper sauce as an appetizer to go along with a few other Southern classics like pork neck bones and collard greens. These are the best fried green tomatoes to serve with various dishes. Also, consider any of these popular soul food meat dishes.

If you’re in full fry mode then add either this vegan fried chicken sandwich or this jerk fried chicken.

Add a salad like this cherry tomato and basil salad to round things out.

The fried green tomatoes taste is a unique blend of crunchy exterior and tangy interior. Here are a few other excellent options to serve with fried green tomatoes:

Shrimp and Grits

This hearty Southern dish pairs well with the crispy, tangy tomatoes.

Collard Greens

The savory, slow-cooked greens provide a perfect balance to the fried tomatoes.

Black-Eyed Peas

A hearty and flavorful side that pairs well with the tangy tomatoes.

Potato Salad

A cool, creamy potato salad balances the warmth of the fried tomatoes.

Slaw

Adds a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor.

Sweet Tea

This quintessential Southern beverage complements the dish perfectly.

Fried Catfish or Chicken

A classic Southern main that pairs well with the tomatoes.

Expert Tips for Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes

• Choose firm, unripe tomatoes
• Tomatoes cut too thin will end up soggy, so cut them slightly thick (½ inch)
• For optimal frying, ensure you cut the green tomato slices evenly.
• If the tomatoes aren’t unripe, fully green then salt them first to draw out some of the water
• Season at all levels (dredge, egg wash, and finished tomatoes)
• Soak the tomato slices in the egg wash until almost saturated for a good coating
• Fry a few at a time to avoid crowding
• Remove from the fryer/skillet when the coating starts to turn a golden brown.
• To store fried green tomatoes, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for a short period. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven. You can also freeze fried green tomatoes before frying by battering and slicing them, then storing them in the freezer for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are fried green tomatoes made with tomatillos?

Though that wouldn’t be a bad idea, recipes for fried green tomatoes are typically unripe green tomatoes. Green tomatoes are preferred for frying because they are firmer and less juicy compared to red tomatoes, which tend to be too soft and juicy for this cooking method. The crunchy texture and unique flavor profile of fried green tomatoes make them a beloved Southern dish.

How long should I smoke the tomatoes for?

This is not a long smoke. You should need no more than 15 minutes, which is long enough for the tomatoes to absorb some of the smoke. You don't want to really "cook" them as the texture will start to break down.

Can You fry green tomatoes in an air fryer?

Sure you can, however the challenge will be getting the crust you want. Bread crumbs will be your best bet.

For similar appetizers you might dig, check out these:

Avocado Salad Cuban Style

Grilled Piri Piri Shrimp

Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Tomato Galette

Ceviche

Fried Lobster Tails

Air Fryer Wings

Make This Recipe

As the final notes of flavor play out, our Smoked and Fried Green Tomatoes with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce hit the perfect crescendo. Each bite is a funky fusion of smoky, crispy, and zesty goodness that keeps you grooving for more.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a soulful celebration that brings the funk straight to your table. So, grab your fork, let the rhythm of flavors take you on a ride, and enjoy the delicious harmony of this funk-inspired feast.

If you make this smoked and fried green tomatoes recipe please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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