Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich - Alrightwithme

If you ask me, a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme is what sandwich dreams are made of. This delightful creation brings together crispy fried green tomatoes, flavorful turkey bacon, and zesty sauces, making it perfect for lunch or any casual gathering. The combination of textures and tastes ensures that every bite is a memorable experience. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy day yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet sandwich in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and sauces elevates the taste to a whole new level.
Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch, picnics, or even dinner; this sandwich fits any occasion.
Crispy and Satisfying: The crunchy texture of the fried tomatoes pairs wonderfully with the soft bread.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich, having the right tools at hand makes all the difference. Ensure you gather everything before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet or Frying Pan
Mixing Bowls
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Spatula
Knife and Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet or Frying Pan: Essential for frying the tomatoes evenly to achieve that perfect crunch.
Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without creating a mess.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavors every time.

Ingredients

To prepare your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Turkey Bacon

1 to 2 pounds of thick-cut Turkey Bacon (cooked)

For the Fried Green Tomatoes

3 green tomatoes (cut into slices)
1/2 cup of cornmeal
1/2 cup of flour
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1/2 cup oil for frying
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne spice
1/2 teaspoon sugar

For Assembly

Lettuce
12 pieces of high-quality white bread

For the Sauce

1/2 cup of Duke’s mayonnaise
1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
2 teaspoons pickle juice
1 to 2 teaspoons grated horseradish
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cajun or creole spice mix
4 dashes of hot sauce

How to Make Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the green tomatoes into thick rounds. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with cornmeal mixed with salt, pepper, cayenne, and sugar, and another with milk and beaten egg.

Step 2: Bread the Tomatoes

Coat each slice of tomato first in the flour mixture, then dip it in the milk-egg mixture, and finally cover it with the cornmeal mixture. Ensure each slice is well-coated for maximum crunch.

Step 3: Fry the Tomatoes

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place breaded tomato slices in the pan. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, spicy mustard, pickle juice, horseradish, paprika, cajun spice mix, and hot sauce. Mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwich

Toast slices of white bread if desired. Spread sauce on one side of each slice. Layer lettuce on one slice followed by turkey bacon and fried green tomatoes. Top with another slice of bread. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.

Enjoy your delicious Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme!

How to Serve Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Serving a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich is all about showcasing its vibrant flavors and crispy texture. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or as a casual dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Classic Presentation

Serve with crispy lettuce and a slice of ripe tomato for an authentic BLT experience. This adds freshness to each bite.

Gourmet Touch

Add slices of avocado or guacamole for a creamy texture that complements the crunch of the fried green tomatoes.

Picnic Style

Pack these sandwiches for a picnic. Wrap them tightly in parchment paper and pair with fresh fruit for a delightful outdoor meal.

Party Platter

Cut the sandwiches into smaller pieces and arrange them on a platter. This makes them perfect for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.

Dipping Sauce Delight

Offer a side of homemade ranch or spicy mayo as dip options. These sauces enhance the flavors and provide an extra layer of enjoyment.

Green Salad Pairing

Serve alongside a refreshing mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity balances the richness of the sandwich beautifully.

How to Perfect Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Perfecting your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your sandwich game.

Choose the right tomatoes: Use firm green tomatoes that hold up well during frying, ensuring they retain their crunch and flavor.
Breading technique: For extra crispiness, double-dip your tomato slices in flour, then milk, followed by cornmeal. This creates an irresistible crust.
Control oil temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F). This prevents sogginess and ensures a golden-brown finish.
Layer wisely: Start with mayonnaise on one side of the bread to help hold everything together before adding layers of turkey bacon, fried green tomatoes, and lettuce.
Fresh ingredients: Use high-quality bread and fresh produce for the best flavor. Freshness enhances every bite of this delicious sandwich.
Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the cayenne spice and hot sauce levels based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Pairing sides with your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw complements the sandwich’s richness while providing refreshing texture.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that balances well with savory flavors.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort alongside the sandwich, making it ideal for gatherings or summer picnics.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds seasonal sweetness and pairs perfectly with any sandwich dish.
Pickles: Tangy pickles provide crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of turkey bacon and fried tomatoes.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty sandwich.
Chips: Serve kettle-cooked chips on the side for added crunch and flavor variety in each bite.
Vegetable Chips: If you prefer something lighter, opt for baked vegetable chips as a healthier alternative that still satisfies crunch cravings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Using unripe tomatoes: Always choose firm, green tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Ripe red tomatoes will not provide the same crunch.
Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your flour and cornmeal mixture can lead to bland fried tomatoes. Always add salt and spices for enhanced flavor.
Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many slices at once reduces the oil temperature, resulting in soggy tomatoes. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
Not letting the fried tomatoes drain: Placing fried tomatoes directly on paper towels without letting excess oil drain can make them greasy. Use a cooling rack to keep them crispy.
Ignoring bread quality: Using low-quality bread can affect the sandwich’s overall taste. Opt for high-quality white bread for the best results.
Forgetting the sauce balance: An unbalanced sauce can overpower other flavors. Adjust mayo and mustard proportions to suit your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
For best quality, freeze them for up to 1 month.

Reheating Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30 seconds, checking if it’s heated through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter and cook each side of the sandwich for 3-4 minutes until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich.

What makes this Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich unique?

The combination of crunchy fried green tomatoes with savory turkey bacon creates a delightful twist on the classic BLT, offering both texture and flavor.

Can I make this sandwich vegan?

Yes! Substitute turkey bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives, use non-dairy milk, and opt for vegan mayonnaise to create a delicious vegan version.

How do I ensure my fried green tomatoes are crispy?

Make sure to season your coating well and fry in batches without overcrowding the pan. This will result in perfectly crispy tomatoes every time.

What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Crispy potato chips, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad complement the Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can customize it by adding different sauces or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful crunch and flavor!