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 twist on the classic BLT combines crispy fried green tomatoes with flavorful turkey bacon, creating a mouthwatering experience perfect for lunch or any gathering. The combination of textures and tastes makes this sandwich stand out, making it a favorite among both casual eaters and food enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious sandwich in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices along with the crispy fried green tomatoes delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic, this sandwich adapts to any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to introduce kids to new flavors while keeping their favorites like bacon and mayo.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and quality ingredients, this recipe is as wholesome as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential for crafting the perfect Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ensures even heat distribution for perfectly crispy fried tomatoes.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess and making the batter smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a well-blended egg mixture for coating the tomatoes.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing your tomatoes and assembling your sandwich.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own delicious Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme:

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
• 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 gathering all your ingredients. Make sure you have everything ready before cooking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, cayenne spice, sugar, and paprika.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg and mix it with milk until combined.

Step 3: Coat the Tomatoes

Dip each slice of green tomato first in the egg mixture then into the dry batter mix. Ensure they are well coated.

Step 4: Fry the Tomatoes

In a cast iron skillet:
1. Heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully place coated tomato slices into the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

On your choice of bread:
1. Spread Duke’s mayonnaise on one slice.
2. Layer with lettuce, crispy turkey bacon, and fried green tomatoes.
3. Add spicy brown mustard mixed with pickle juice and horseradish before topping with another slice of bread.

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 can elevate any lunch or casual gathering. This sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines crispy textures and bold flavors.

Classic Presentation

• Use fresh lettuce to create a crisp layer on the sandwich.
• Stack the fried green tomatoes generously for a satisfying crunch.
• Add turkey bacon for a savory flavor that complements the tomatoes.

Plated with Style

• Serve with a side of homemade fries or sweet potato wedges for extra crunch.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for color and aroma.

Picnic Ready

• Wrap sandwiches in parchment paper for easy transport.
• Include a small container of additional sauce for dipping, enhancing the flavor.

Brunch Appeal

• Pair with mimosas or fresh fruit juices to create a refreshing brunch spread.
• Offer sides like potato salad or coleslaw for variety at your brunch table.

How to Perfect Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Perfecting your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich involves attention to detail and creativity in preparation. Here are some tips to help you achieve sandwich perfection.

• Choose ripe green tomatoes: Select firm, unripe tomatoes for the best frying results. They should hold their shape and maintain crunch during cooking.
• Use seasoned flour: Enhance the flavor of the coating by adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder to your flour mix.
• Control frying temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that golden, crunchy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
• Layer thoughtfully: Build your sandwich with care, placing ingredients strategically for an even distribution of flavors and textures.
• Customize sauces: Feel free to experiment with different sauces beyond mayonnaise—try avocado spread or a spicy aioli for a unique twist.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some delightful options that complement this tasty sandwich perfectly.

1. Crispy French Fries: Classic golden fries provide an irresistible crunch that balances out the sandwich’s softer textures.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: These offer a sweet contrast and are easy to prepare by baking or frying until crispy.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the sandwich ingredients.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort and pairs well with the flavors of your sandwich, making it perfect for gatherings.
5. Pickle Chips: Serve alongside crunchy pickle chips for a tangy bite that enhances every mouthful of your sandwich.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a fun side that adds sweetness and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using unripe tomatoes: Make sure your green tomatoes are firm but not rock-hard. This ensures they fry up crispy and flavorful.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your flour and cornmeal mixture. A well-seasoned coating enhances the flavor of the tomatoes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Fry in batches to avoid steaming the tomatoes. Overcrowding leads to soggy results instead of that desired crunch.
• Not letting oil heat properly: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough before adding the tomatoes. A quick test is to sprinkle a bit of flour; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
• Choosing low-quality bread: Opt for high-quality white bread, as it holds up better against the toppings and adds a delicious texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

• Place sandwiches in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method may result in less crunchiness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich:

What makes this sandwich crunchy?

The crunch comes from the two-step breading process with seasoned flour and cornmeal, which creates a crispy coating when fried.

Can I make this sandwich vegan?

Yes! You can substitute turkey bacon with plant-based bacon and use almond milk or other plant milks instead of regular milk.

How do I customize my Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich?

Feel free to add avocado or different greens like arugula for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with various sauces.

What sides go well with this sandwich?

Serve with sweet potato fries or a refreshing coleslaw for a complete meal that complements the flavors of the sandwich.

Final Thoughts

The Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich is truly a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress anyone at your table. It’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have available or your personal taste preferences. So gather your ingredients and give this scrumptious sandwich a try!