How to make Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
Making a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich is a wonderful way to enjoy a tasty treat that combines crispy, savory flavors with a fresh crunch. This sandwich is perfect for lunch or a light dinner and is sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- Green tomatoes
- Bacon
- Lettuce
- Bread (your choice)
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Cajun seasoning
- Buttermilk
- Oil for frying
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions
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Slice the Green Tomatoes: Begin by slicing your green tomatoes. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick slices. This size is perfect to get a good crunch without being too thick.
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Soak in Buttermilk: Place the sliced tomatoes in a bowl and soak them in buttermilk. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This soaking process helps the coating stick better and adds moisture.
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Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give a nice flavor and texture to your fried tomatoes.
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Heat Oil in Skillet: In a skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Medium-high heat works well for frying.
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Dredge the Tomatoes: After your tomatoes have soaked, take each slice and dredge it in the cornmeal mixture. Make sure each slice is well coated.
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Fry Until Golden: Carefully place the coated tomatoes in the hot oil. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes on each side.
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Cook the Bacon: While your tomatoes are frying, cook your bacon in another pan until crispy. The bacon adds a delicious salty flavor to the sandwich.
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Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the bread in the same skillet used for the bacon, or in a toaster. You want the bread to be golden and slightly crunchy.
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Assemble the Sandwich: Now it’s time to build your sandwich! Start with a slice of bread, layer on the crunchy fried green tomatoes, add the crispy bacon, and finish with a handful of fresh lettuce. Top it off with another slice of bread.
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Serve Hot: Cut the sandwich in half and serve it hot. Enjoy the fantastic crunch of the tomatoes along with the richness of the bacon and freshness of the lettuce!
Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
This sandwich is not just delicious, but it also offers a unique twist on the classic BLT. The addition of fried green tomatoes brings a delightful crunch and tang to each bite. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory, lightly spicy coating of the tomatoes. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, tomatoes are great for your skin and overall health.
- Bacon: Provides protein and a good amount of energy.
- Lettuce: Low in calories and high in fiber, great for digestion.
- Cornmeal: Contains useful nutrients like iron and vitamin B6.
All these ingredients combined make this sandwich not only tasty but also nutritious.
What to Serve With Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
This sandwich pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
| Side Dish | Description |
|———————|—————————————–|
| Coleslaw | Adds a crunchy, creamy element. |
| Potato Chips | A classic crunch that is easy to prepare. |
| Pickles | Provides a tangy contrast to the flavors. |
| Fruit Salad | A refreshing, sweet complement. |
| Corn on the Cob | Seasonal and adds vibrant color. |
How to Store Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store them separately. The bread can get soggy if stored with the tomatoes and bacon. Here’s how to store:
- Fried Tomatoes: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best eaten fresh but can last up to 2 days.
- Bacon: Store in the fridge, can be reheated or used in other dishes.
- Bread: Keep in a bread box or sealed bag to maintain freshness.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature for frying.
- Soak Longer for Crunch: If you want an extra crunch, soak tomatoes longer in buttermilk.
- Don’t Rush the Coating: Make sure each slice of tomato is well coated for the best texture.
Variation
- Add Cheese: Introduce a slice of cheese for extra creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the layers for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
Yes, but keep in mind that ripe tomatoes will be softer and won’t provide the same crunch.
2. Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the coated tomatoes in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and ensure your cornmeal and flour are gluten-free as well.
This Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich recipe is a fun, delicious twist on a crowd-pleasing classic. It’s perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or a cozy meal at home. Enjoy making and devouring this delightful sandwich!
Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
Ingredients
For the Fried Green Tomatoes
- 2 medium Green tomatoes Sliced into 1/4 inch thick slices
- 1 cup Buttermilk For soaking the tomatoes
- 1 cup Cornmeal
- 1/2 cup Flour
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- Oil for frying Oil for frying Enough to cover the bottom of the skillet
For the Sandwich
- 4 slices Bread Your choice of bread
- 4 slices Bacon Cooked until crispy
- 1 cup Lettuce Fresh
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4 inch thick slices.
- Soak the sliced tomatoes in buttermilk for about 15-20 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dredge each soaked tomato slice in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring each slice is well coated.
- Fry the coated tomatoes in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes on each side.
- While the tomatoes are frying, cook the bacon in another pan until crispy.
- Toast the bread until golden and slightly crunchy.
Assembly
- Assemble the sandwich by layering one slice of bread with the fried green tomatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh lettuce.
- Top it off with another slice of bread.
- Cut the sandwich in half and serve hot.