Fried Red Tomatoes Golden (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 5 large beefsteak tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-1/2 inch rounds
02 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1/2 cup buttermilk
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 cup cornmeal
06 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 1 1/4 cups grated parmesan
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1 cup vegetable oil or olive oil spray for frying
11 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Place tomato slices on paper towel-lined racks and sprinkle with garlic powder. Let drain for 20 minutes, patting dry if needed.
02 - In one bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, parmesan, salt and pepper.
03 - Working in batches, dredge tomato slices in the buttermilk mixture, then the cornmeal mixture to fully coat.
04 - For frying: Heat 1/2 inch oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Fry tomatoes for 2-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
05 - For air frying: Arrange breaded tomatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray with olive oil. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
06 - Let cool slightly and serve the fried red tomatoes warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Make the most of those juicy summer tomatoes with this Southern twist on crispy fried goodness.