Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe Vegan and Deliciously Crispy

Fried green tomatoes are a beloved Southern classic known for their crispy, tangy crunch and irresistible flavor. Traditionally made with eggs and buttermilk, this dish has been delightfully reinvented here with a vegan twist, making it accessible to everyone who craves that perfect balance of tartness and crispiness without any animal products.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based cooking, this recipe delivers the familiar comfort and nostalgia of fried green tomatoes with wholesome, cruelty-free ingredients. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these golden slices boast a crispy coating that melts in your mouth, paired with the unique tartness of unripe tomatoes, making every bite an absolute joy.

Ready to impress your friends and family with a Southern staple that’s both vegan and delicious? Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan fried green tomatoes recipe is packed with flavor, texture, and simplicity. By using plant-based alternatives, we keep the dish light yet satisfyingly crispy.

The tangy green tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the savory, crunchy coating, creating a perfect harmony of taste and mouthfeel.

It’s also incredibly adaptable—you can customize the seasoning to suit your palate or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those firm, green tomatoes that might otherwise go to waste.

Whether you’re cooking for vegans or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

For more vegan comfort food ideas, check out our Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love.

Ingredients

• 3 large green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (to make vegan buttermilk)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1 cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1/2 inch deep)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowls (at least two)
• Frying pan or cast iron skillet
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs or slotted spatula
• Paper towels or wire rack (for draining excess oil)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegan buttermilk: In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk with the apple cider vinegar. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly. This will help the batter stick and mimic the tanginess of traditional buttermilk.
2. Slice the tomatoes: Wash and dry the green tomatoes. Cut off the stem ends and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Set up the dredging stations: In one bowl, place the vegan buttermilk mixture. In another bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
4. Coat the tomatoes: Dip each tomato slice first into the vegan buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating evenly. Set coated slices on a plate while you prepare the rest.
5. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into your frying pan to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 350°F or 175°C). You can test by dropping a small pinch of the coating into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
6. Fry the tomatoes: Carefully place the coated tomato slices in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spatula to flip gently.
7. Drain and serve: Transfer fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite vegan dipping sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, double-dip the tomato slices by repeating the buttermilk and flour-cornmeal coating steps.

You can experiment with different spices in the coating mix, such as smoked chili powder, dried oregano, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. If you prefer baking over frying, place the coated slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

To keep this dish gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or a certified gluten-free flour blend. For an added touch, serve with a tangy vegan remoulade or a smoky chipotle mayo made from vegan mayo and spices.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like our Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love for more hearty and comforting plant-based dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Fried green tomatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them as an appetizer with a zesty vegan aioli or a smoky barbecue sauce for dipping.

They’re fantastic alongside hearty grain bowls or atop a fresh salad for a crunchy texture contrast.

Add them to vegan sandwiches or burgers to elevate your meal with tangy, crispy goodness. For a Southern-inspired feast, pair with vegan mac and cheese and collard greens.

For more ideas on pairing vegan comfort foods, explore our Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just testing the waters, this fried green tomatoes recipe offers a delicious and nostalgic taste of Southern cuisine, free from animal products. The crispy coating combined with the tartness of the green tomatoes creates a mouthwatering snack or side dish that’s both easy to make and crowd-pleasing.

With a few simple ingredients and some kitchen staples, you can whip up this delightful dish any time of year. Plus, with the tips and variations provided, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Don’t forget to check out our other exciting vegan recipes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to keep your meals flavorful and exciting!

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