Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

Green tomatoes: These are unripe tomatoes that are firmer and tangier than red tomatoes, perfect for frying.

All-purpose flour: Used to help the coating stick to the tomato slices.

Cornmeal: Adds a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor to the coating.

Breadcrumbs: Helps create a crispy outer layer when fried.

Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a glue to hold the coating on the tomatoes.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a little bit of spice and depth.

Garlic powder: Gives a subtle garlic flavor that complements the tomatoes.

One of the most important steps in this Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe is setting up your breading station and coating the tomato slices just right. Here’s how to do it so your fried green tomatoes come out crispy and delicious every time:

1. First, have three separate bowls ready. One with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the mixture of cornmeal, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Take a slice of green tomato and dip it into the flour. Make sure it’s lightly coated all over. This helps the next layer stick better.
3. Next, dip the floured slice into the beaten eggs. The egg acts like glue, holding the crunchy coating on the tomato.
4. Finally, press the slice into the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture. Don’t just sprinkle it on—gently press so the coating sticks well.

Doing it this way keeps the coating from falling off while cooking and makes sure each slice gets that perfect crispy crust. If you skip the flour or the egg, the coating might slide right off or get soggy.

A little tip from me: when I first made these, I rushed and dipped the slices straight into the cornmeal mix without flour or egg. The coating barely stuck, and the tomatoes came out kind of sad and soft. Now, I always take the extra minute to do the three-step dip, and it makes a huge difference. Plus, pressing the coating on gently helps it stay put and gives you that satisfying crunch you want.

Once you’ve got the coating right, the air fryer does the rest, making these fried green tomatoes crispy without all the oil. It’s a fun way to get that classic taste with less mess!

• green tomatoes - Substitute with red tomatoes: Red tomatoes can be used if green tomatoes are unavailable, though they will be sweeter and less tangy.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber.

• cornmeal - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunchy texture.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a crispy texture similar to breadcrumbs.

• eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the coating adhere to the tomatoes and adds a tangy flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor with an additional umami taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat without the black specks.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor.

• Allow the fried green tomatoes to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled tomato slices in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled fried green tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 2 hours.

• Transfer the frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Label with the date.

• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen slices in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover fried green tomatoes in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and warmed through.

• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the fried green tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping once, until they regain their crispiness.

• For a quick stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the fried green tomatoes in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy.

• If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave, though it may not retain the crispiness. Place the fried green tomatoes on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Heat on high for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure they are warmed through.

• For an extra crispy texture, consider using a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried green tomatoes on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Air fryer: This is the main appliance used to cook the green tomatoes, ensuring they become crispy and golden without the need for deep frying.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the green tomatoes evenly.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the tomatoes.

• Mixing bowls: Used to set up the breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and the cornmeal mixture.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the tomato slices in the air fryer and for handling them without damaging the coating.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the flour, cornmeal, and breadcrumbs.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until they are well combined.

• Spatula: Useful for transferring the coated tomato slices to the air fryer basket.

• Serving plate: For presenting the fried green tomatoes once they are cooked.

• Dipping sauce bowl: Perfect for holding your favorite dipping sauce to accompany the fried green tomatoes.

Pre-slice tomatoes: Slice the green tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save time during preparation.

Organize breading station: Set up your breading station in advance with flour, beaten eggs, and the cornmeal mixture to streamline the process.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple tomato slices in the air fryer at once, ensuring they are in a single layer, to reduce overall cooking time.

Preheat air fryer: Preheat your air fryer while you prepare the ingredients to ensure it’s ready to go when you are.