Fried Red Tomatoes are a delicious twist to the traditional fried green tomato! Crispy outside and red, ripe tomato on the inside! You can use an air fryer or oil!
Start by prepping the tomatoes first and placing 3 layers of paper towels on a wire rack.
Place the tomato slices on the paper towels and let them drain any excess moisture. Sprinkle garlic powder over tomato slices while they drain for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Pat slices of tomatoes with a paper towel if you see excess liquid after that time. You need the tomatoes very dry for the breading to stick.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk buttermilk and egg together in a medium mixing bowl.
Combine cornmeal, flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in another mixing bowl.
Carefully dredge each slice of tomato in the buttermilk mixture then coat in the dry mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Oil Frying Directions:
In a large skillet, over medium heat, heat about 1/2 inch of oil until the oil starts to shimmer. Place tomatoes in the skillet in batches and fry 2-4 minutes on each side, or until they're a golden brown color. Use a fork to flip the tomatoes. When the tomatoes are fried, remove and place on a paper towel lined plate to drain then serve.
Air Fryer Directions
Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil nonstick spray and place the breaded tomatoes in. Do not overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate around the tomatoes so this will need to be done in batches.
Air fry at 400F for 8-10 minutes (no need to preheat the air fryer first). Flip halfway through. They're done when they're golden brown in color. Serve with basil (optional) and enjoy!