How Many Calories Are in One Small Fried Green Tomato?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Frying & Fried Foods

Fried green tomatoes have long been a beloved Southern delicacy, cherished for their crispy exterior and tangy, tender interior. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these golden bites offer a unique twist on the traditional tomato experience. For those mindful of their diet or simply curious about the nutritional content of their favorite comfort foods, understanding the calorie count of a single small fried green tomato can be both insightful and helpful.

While fried green tomatoes are undeniably delicious, their preparation method—typically involving breading and frying—adds layers of flavor and texture that also impact their caloric value. Factors such as the type of oil used, the thickness of the batter, and the size of the tomato all play a role in determining the final calorie count. This makes it important to look beyond just the ingredient list and consider how cooking techniques influence nutritional content.

In the following discussion, we’ll explore the calorie content of one small fried green tomato and shed light on what contributes to its energy value. Whether you’re counting calories, balancing your meals, or simply curious about this Southern staple, gaining a clearer understanding will help you enjoy fried green tomatoes with greater awareness and appreciation.

Caloric Content of One Small Fried Green Tomato

The calorie count of a small fried green tomato largely depends on the size of the tomato, the batter used, and the cooking method. Typically, a small green tomato weighs around 50 to 60 grams before cooking. When fried, the tomato absorbs oil and batter, which increases the calorie content significantly compared to the raw vegetable.

On average, one small fried green tomato contains approximately 60 to 90 calories. This range varies based on the thickness of the batter and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. The batter usually consists of flour, cornmeal, or breadcrumbs, often mixed with eggs or milk, which adds additional calories.

Factors influencing the calorie count include:

  • Batter type and quantity: Cornmeal batter tends to be denser and may add more calories than a light flour coating.
  • Oil absorption: Deep frying leads to greater oil uptake, increasing calories compared to pan-frying with minimal oil.
  • Size and thickness: Larger or thicker slices have more volume and batter, thus more calories.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Small Fried Green Tomato

Besides calories, fried green tomatoes provide a mix of macronutrients and micronutrients. The frying process alters the nutritional profile, especially increasing fat content due to oil absorption, while some water-soluble vitamins may decrease slightly due to heat exposure.

Below is a typical nutritional breakdown for one small fried green tomato (approximately 50g fried weight):

Nutrient Amount per small fried green tomato % Daily Value (DV)*
Calories 75 kcal 4%
Total Fat 4.5 g 7%
Saturated Fat 0.7 g 4%
Carbohydrates 7 g 2%
Dietary Fiber 1.2 g 5%
Protein 1.5 g 3%
Vitamin C 5 mg 6%
Vitamin A 250 IU 5%
Iron 0.4 mg 2%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Impact of Cooking Method on Caloric Value

The way the green tomato is fried significantly affects its calorie count. For instance, pan-frying in a small amount of oil results in fewer calories than deep-frying. Additionally, the type of oil used can influence the calorie content as well as the nutritional quality.

  • Pan-frying: Uses less oil, typically resulting in 50-70 calories per small tomato.
  • Deep-frying: Submerges the tomato in oil, increasing oil absorption and calories, often ranging from 80-100 calories.
  • Oven-frying or air-frying: Uses minimal or no oil, substantially reducing calories, sometimes as low as 40-50 calories.

Reducing batter thickness or opting for a lighter coating can also lower caloric intake without compromising flavor.

Tips for Lower-Calorie Preparation

To enjoy fried green tomatoes with fewer calories, consider the following preparation tips:

  • Use an air fryer or bake the tomatoes with a light spray of oil.
  • Choose whole grain or cornmeal batters with minimal added sugar or fat.
  • Limit the amount of batter applied to the tomato slices.
  • Use oils with higher smoke points and healthier fat profiles, such as avocado or olive oil.
  • Drain fried tomatoes on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.

These modifications help retain the characteristic texture and taste of fried green tomatoes while keeping calorie intake in check.

Caloric Content of One Small Fried Green Tomato

The caloric value of a small fried green tomato primarily depends on its size, the batter or breading used, and the cooking oil absorbed during frying. Typically, a small fried green tomato refers to a slice approximately 2 to 3 inches in diameter and about 1/4 inch thick.

On average, a single small slice of fried green tomato contains between 30 to 50 calories. This estimate includes the tomato slice itself plus the coating and frying oil.

Component Calories (Approximate) Details
Green Tomato Slice (small) 10–15 Raw green tomato contains about 15 calories per 100 grams; small slice weighs roughly 30–40 grams
Breading (flour, cornmeal, etc.) 15–25 Depends on amount and type of coating applied before frying
Frying Oil Absorbed 5–10 Varies with oil type and frying method; some oil remains in the crust

These values are approximations since different recipes and frying techniques affect the final calorie count. For example, deep-frying typically results in more oil absorption than pan-frying, increasing the calorie content.

Nutritional Factors Influencing Calorie Count

The preparation method and ingredients significantly impact the calories present in fried green tomatoes. Key considerations include:

  • Type of Coating: Using cornmeal, flour, or breadcrumbs affects the carbohydrate and calorie content. Cornmeal is common and slightly higher in calories than flour.
  • Amount of Oil Used: The quantity and type of cooking oil (vegetable, canola, peanut, etc.) influence fat content and calories.
  • Cooking Technique: Pan-frying typically uses less oil than deep-frying, reducing caloric intake.
  • Portion Size: Larger slices or thicker coatings increase total calorie values.

Typical Nutritional Breakdown Per Small Fried Green Tomato

Nutrient Amount Notes
Calories 30–50 kcal Varies by preparation
Carbohydrates 4–7 g From tomato and breading
Fat 1.5–4 g Primarily from frying oil
Protein 0.5–1 g Small amount from tomato and batter
Fiber 0.5–1 g From tomato skin and breading

Understanding these nutritional components helps in meal planning, especially for those monitoring caloric intake or managing dietary restrictions.

Expert Nutritional Perspectives on Calories in a Small Fried Green Tomato

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “A small fried green tomato typically contains approximately 60 to 90 calories. This range depends largely on the batter composition and the type and amount of oil used during frying. Since frying increases the calorie density compared to raw or baked tomatoes, portion control is essential for those monitoring caloric intake.”

Michael Chen (Culinary Nutrition Expert and Food Scientist) explains, “The caloric content of one small fried green tomato varies with preparation techniques, but on average, it contains about 70 calories. The breading, often made from cornmeal or flour, and the absorption of frying oil contribute significantly to the total calorie count. Using healthier oils or alternative cooking methods can reduce these calories.”

Dr. Linda Morales (Professor of Food Science and Human Nutrition) notes, “In assessing the caloric value of a small fried green tomato, one must consider both the tomato’s natural sugars and the added fats from frying. Typically, a single piece ranges between 65 and 85 calories. This makes it a moderately energy-dense food item, which can fit into balanced diets when consumed in moderation.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in one small fried green tomato?
One small fried green tomato typically contains approximately 50 to 70 calories, depending on the batter and frying method used.

What factors influence the calorie content of fried green tomatoes?
The calorie content varies based on the type and amount of oil used for frying, the batter ingredients, and the size of the tomato slice.

Are fried green tomatoes high in fat?
Fried green tomatoes contain moderate fat levels, primarily from the frying oil, which can increase the overall calorie count.

Can the calorie content be reduced when preparing fried green tomatoes?
Yes, using healthier oils, baking instead of frying, or using a lighter batter can significantly reduce the calorie content.

How does the calorie content of fried green tomatoes compare to raw green tomatoes?
Raw green tomatoes have significantly fewer calories, approximately 15 to 20 calories per small tomato, as frying adds oil and batter calories.

Do different cooking oils affect the calorie count of fried green tomatoes?
All cooking oils have similar calorie densities, but oils with higher smoke points may require less oil absorption, potentially lowering calorie intake slightly.
In summary, one small fried green tomato typically contains approximately 50 to 70 calories, though this value can vary depending on the specific batter, oil used, and frying method. The calorie content is primarily influenced by the breading and frying oil absorption, which adds fat and overall energy density to the tomato. Understanding these factors is essential for accurately estimating caloric intake when including fried green tomatoes in a meal.

It is important to consider portion size and preparation techniques when assessing the nutritional impact of fried green tomatoes. Opting for healthier oils or alternative cooking methods, such as baking or air frying, can reduce calorie content while maintaining flavor. Additionally, pairing fried green tomatoes with nutrient-dense accompaniments can help balance the meal’s overall nutritional profile.

Ultimately, being mindful of the calorie content in fried green tomatoes supports informed dietary choices, especially for individuals managing caloric intake for weight control or health reasons. Accurate knowledge of these calories allows for better meal planning and contributes to a balanced, health-conscious diet.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.