One large Fried Green Tomatoes contain 224 calories. It is a popular southern dish that is typically made by slicing unripe tomatoes, coating them in cornmeal or flour, and then frying them until crispy.
In addition to being delicious, fried green tomatoes also have some nutritional value. They are a good source of vitamin C and fiber, and they also contain some protein and minerals like calcium and iron. However, it's important to note that they are also high in fat and carbohydrates, so they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information of fried green tomatoes, as well as some health benefits and tips for making and serving them.
Calories in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a high-calorie food. One large serving contains around 224 calories, which is mostly due to the oil used for frying. If you are watching your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of the portion sizes and frequency of consuming this dish.
Fat in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are high in fat, with one serving containing around 14 grams of fat. Most of the fat comes from the oil used for frying, which is why it's important to limit your intake or use healthier cooking methods like baking or air frying.
Carbohydrates in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are also high in carbohydrates, with one serving containing around 22 grams of carbs. Most of the carbs come from the cornmeal or flour used to coat the tomatoes before frying. If you are on a low-carb diet, you may want to avoid or limit your intake of this dish.
Protein in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes also contain some protein, with one serving containing around 3 grams of protein. While this may not seem like a lot, it can still be a good source of protein as part of a balanced meal.
Fiber in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a good source of fiber, with one serving containing around 3 grams of fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can also help with weight management, so incorporating fried green tomatoes into your diet can be a good way to increase your fiber intake.
Vitamins in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, with one serving containing around 15% of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that can boost your immune system and support healthy skin, so it's important to incorporate it into your diet.
Minerals in Large Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes also contain some minerals like calcium and iron, with one serving containing around 6% and 10% of the recommended daily intake, respectively. Calcium is important for bone health, while iron is important for blood health, so incorporating these minerals into your diet is essential.
Health Benefits of Green Tomatoes
While fried green tomatoes are generally considered an indulgent treat, they do have some potential health benefits. For example, the high fiber content can help with digestion and weight management, while the vitamin C can boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. However, it's important to note that these benefits are only realized when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How to Make Fried Green Tomatoes
Making fried green tomatoes is relatively simple and involves slicing them, coating them in a mixture of flour or cornmeal and spices, and then frying them in oil until crispy. To make them healthier, consider using healthier cooking methods like baking or air frying, or using a healthier type of oil like olive oil. You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to add more flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a snack on their own, but they can also be used in a variety of other dishes. For example, they can be used as a topping for burgers or sandwiches, or as a base for salads or dips. Get creative and try different ways to incorporate this Southern classic into your meals.
Fried green tomatoes may be a Southern delicacy, but they're also a tasty and nutritious addition to any well-balanced diet.
5 FAQs About Large Fried Green Tomatoes
1. What are fried green tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that are coated in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.
2. How many calories are in large fried green tomatoes?
A serving of large fried green tomatoes has around 224 calories, on average. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the size of the tomatoes and the cooking method used.
3. Are fried green tomatoes healthy?
Fried green tomatoes are not the healthiest choice, as they are typically high in calories and fat. However, they can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.
4. What are some alternative ways to prepare green tomatoes?
If you're looking for a healthier way to prepare green tomatoes, try grilling or baking them instead of deep-frying. You can also use green tomatoes in salads, sandwiches, and salsas for a fresh, tangy flavor.
5. What dishes can I serve with fried green tomatoes?
Fried green tomatoes are a popular Southern side dish that can be served with a variety of dishes, such as barbecue, fried chicken, or seafood. They also pair well with creamy dips, like ranch or blue cheese dressing.