Get ready for a crispy, golden treat that’s bursting with Southern flavor: Okra and Green Tomato Fritters! There’s something so joyful about a plate of fritters, especially ones that celebrate the homey, garden-fresh goodness of okra and the tangy zing of green tomatoes. These fritters are perfect for busy weeknights, casual family gatherings, or spontaneous get-togethers—they’re delightfully simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes. Did you know that fritters have been adored for centuries as a clever way to turn humble veggies into irresistible bites? Their magical ability to win over even the pickiest eaters will remind you of the Creamy Zucchini Corn Casserole recipe that’s already a favorite here on the blog. If you loved that, you’ll absolutely want to give these fritters a try. So, let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe and start frying up some fun!
What is Okra and Green Tomato Fritters?
Okra and Green Tomato Fritters—what a mouthful, right? But every bite lives up to the promise! This playful Southern classic combines the crispness of green tomatoes with the tender bite of okra, all tucked into a golden, savory fritter. Have you ever wondered why food so often gets named after its main stars? I like to think it’s because these veggies refuse to share the spotlight (and honestly, why should they?). My grandmother used to say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I think these fritters might just prove her right! Ready to impress your family with something different? Keep reading, grab your skillet, and give this recipe a whirl.
Why You’ll Love This
Okra and Green Tomato Fritters are a true highlight for anyone who loves a little crunch and a lot of flavor. The main draw? That satisfying combination of lightly crisped exterior with juicy bites of okra and zesty tomato inside—it’s a texture lover’s dream! Making these fritters at home not only saves you money compared to a restaurant appetizer, but you can also customize the seasonings to match your family’s taste buds. Best of all are those little pops of black pepper, garlic, and onion that elevate each bite. They’re like the savory cousin to our wildly popular Skillet Cornbread, perfect for dunking in creamy dips or munching solo. So what are you waiting for? Try making these easy fritters tonight and discover a new favorite comfort food!
How to Make
Quick Overview
These fritters are pure comfort food—crispy, golden, and oh-so-satisfying, but with a bright twist thanks to green tomatoes! Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this recipe approachable for any cook. Everything comes together in around 30 minutes, so you can have a big plate of fritters ready fast whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to a cozy snack.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup self-rising cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 pound okra, coarsely chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1 large green tomato, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step
- Prepare your veggies: Coarsely chop the okra, dice the green tomato, and finely dice half an onion. Set these aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, self-rising cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the chopped okra, diced green tomato, and diced onion to the bowl. Toss well to coat the veggies evenly with the dry mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, beat the egg and then stir in the buttermilk until well blended.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be thick and just hold together.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, drop heaping spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet. Flatten gently with the back of the spoon to form small patties.
- Fry the fritters about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches so you don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Serve immediately for peak crispiness!
What to Serve With
These fritters pair wonderfully with a creamy dipping sauce or a tangy remoulade—try mixing up a simple aioli or grab your favorite ranch dressing. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, or a big green salad. If you want to lean into Southern comfort food, they’re divine with collard greens, fried chicken, or creamy grits. For drinks, a sparkling lemonade or a sweet iced tea rounds out the meal perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- If you don’t have self-rising cornmeal, simply add an extra 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to your regular cornmeal.
- Try switching up the veggies: add a handful of corn kernels or a little diced bell pepper to give the fritters a fresh flavor twist.
- Be careful with your oil temperature—too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool, and the fritters will get greasy.
- Let the batter sit for 5 minutes before frying—this helps the cornmeal hydrate and gives you a better texture.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform fritters, which will cook evenly and look picture-perfect.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in a hot skillet with a tiny splash of oil, or place them in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave if you can—it makes them lose their delightful crunch. These fritters can also be frozen: lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven until hot and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain the okra thoroughly before chopping and mixing into the batter to prevent excess moisture.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem—just mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1 1/2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes and you’ve got a great substitute.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free cornmeal blend. Check your baking powder, too, to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
You can! Spoon the batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
What sauces are best for dipping?
Ranch, spicy mayo, salsa verde, and remoulade all make fantastic dipping sauces. Switch it up according to your mood!
Conclusion
There you have it—Okra and Green Tomato Fritters that blend crispy, wholesome comfort with fresh Southern flair. These fritters come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for weeknights or as a unique side at your next gathering. With practical tips for perfect results and options for storage, this versatile recipe is sure to become a tried-and-true favorite in your kitchen. Give this simple, scrumptious recipe a try, and don’t forget to check out other beloved Southern recipes on the blog. Happy cooking!