Why do you fry red tomatoes instead of green?

These unripe green tomatoes are much firmer, hold their shape and fare better when in hot oil. They are less likely to fall apart when frying than ripe, red tomatoes are. These tomatoes are not to be confused with ripened green tomatoes called “heirloom.” They are green when ripe but far too juicy and seedy to fry.

Are fried green tomatoes different?

Both! There are two types of green tomatoes, those that are green when fully ripe (generally heirloom varieties), and yes, unripe tomatoes. … Unripe (red) tomatoes will be pale green all over, feel nearly solid and will have a more acidic or tart flavor.

Are fried green tomatoes different than red tomatoes?

In the phrase “fried green tomatoes,” green refers to unripe tomatoes—tomatoes plucked from the vine before they’ve matured to the point of turning soft and red. However, confusingly, some varieties of heirloom tomato (e.g., green zebras) remain green even when they are ripe.

Can I use unripe red tomatoes for fried green tomatoes?

There is a type of tomato that is green when fully ripe, it will have vertical stripes or other variations in the coloring, and will feel soft when you press it. An unripe tomato, which is what you use for making fried green tomatoes, will be pale green all over and feel very solid.

Can I eat green tomatoes raw?

While not as nutritious as vine-ripened red tomatoes, green tomatoes do have many nutritional benefits. … Never eat raw green tomatoes because they have a toxin that can be poisonous, Dianne Onstad cautions in her book “Whole Foods Companion.”

Can you eat green tomatoes before they turn red?

Green tomatoes can ripen and turn red off the plant, although the maturity of the fruit and indoor conditions determine which fruits will ripen best.

Should green tomatoes be hard?

The best time to pick the green tomatoes is the intermediate stage when they’re green and firm but not rock hard. A slight change of color shouldn’t hurt, but make sure they’re not soft.

Are fried green tomatoes toxic?

It is a well-known cautionary tale: the green parts of the tomato crop are toxic and should be discarded. … An unripe tomato that is still completely green does contain the toxic alkaloid solanine. This heat-resistant natural poison is found in all solanaceous crops, like potatoes.

Can you use unripe tomatoes?

Unripe green tomatoes are edible, and can be used to make all manner of tasty treats. Last year, we had a Green Tomato Contest where readers submitted their favorite green tomato recipes.