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 sandwich combines crispy fried green tomatoes with savory turkey bacon and zesty sauce, making it an irresistible choice for lunch or dinner. Perfect for picnics, gatherings, or cozy meals at home, this recipe stands out with its unique flavors and textures while keeping things fresh and exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crunchy tomatoes and spicy elements provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Great for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer; this sandwich fits any occasion.
• Healthy Alternative: Using turkey bacon gives you a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap ingredients or toppings based on your preferences for endless variations.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even frying of the green tomatoes without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and for easy preparation.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise slicing of tomatoes and bread.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting and preparing your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Fried Green Tomatoes

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

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the green tomatoes into thick rounds and cook the turkey bacon according to package instructions until crispy.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne spice, and sugar.

Step 3: Bread the Tomatoes

Dip each slice of tomato first into the egg mixture then dredge it in the cornmeal mixture until fully coated. Ensure they are well covered for maximum crunchiness.

Step 4: Fry the Tomatoes

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded tomatoes in the skillet. Fry until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, spicy brown mustard, pickle juice, horseradish, paprika, cajun spice mix, and hot sauce. Stir until well blended.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

On one slice of white bread, spread a generous amount of sauce. Layer with lettuce, crispy turkey bacon, fried green tomatoes, and another slice of bread on top. Repeat for additional sandwiches.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve immediately alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich!

How to Serve Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Serving a Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich is all about enhancing the flavors and textures of this delightful dish. This sandwich can be a versatile meal option, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with vinaigrette complements the sandwich’s crunch.
• Coleslaw: A creamy or tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the fried green tomatoes.

Add a Side of Pickles

• Dill Pickles: The tartness of dill pickles enhances the savory notes of the sandwich.
• Sweet Pickles: For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, sweet pickles provide a delightful balance.

Serve with Crispy Chips

• Potato Chips: Classic salty potato chips add an extra crunch that pairs well with the sandwich.
• Vegetable Chips: Opt for baked vegetable chips for a healthier alternative that still provides satisfying texture.

Offer Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: This creamy dressing can be drizzled on or served on the side for an extra flavor boost.
• Spicy Aioli: A homemade spicy aioli can elevate your sandwich experience with its bold flavors.

How to Perfect Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

Creating the ideal Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure perfection.

• Choose Firm Tomatoes: Use firm green tomatoes for frying to achieve that perfect crunch without them falling apart.
• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: Coat your tomato slices in egg and then in the flour-cornmeal mixture twice to enhance their crispiness.
• Heat Oil Properly: Make sure your frying oil is hot enough before adding tomatoes; otherwise, they may become soggy instead of crunchy.
• Drain Excess Oil: After frying, let your tomatoes drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
• Layer Wisely: Start with lettuce at the bottom to protect bread from moisture and keep it from getting soggy.

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

To complete your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a sweet contrast and are easy to prepare by baking or frying.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a classic summer touch alongside the sandwich.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the sandwich with natural sweetness.
4. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide a savory complement that rounds out the meal nicely.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is a traditional side that works beautifully with sandwiches.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light and zesty cucumber salad offers freshness and crunch, making it an ideal companion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme experience.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Ensure your green tomatoes are firm and fresh. Unripe tomatoes can result in a mushy texture when fried.
• Neglecting the seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning your flour and cornmeal. This step adds layers of flavor that enhance the overall taste of your sandwich.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many slices at once can reduce oil temperature, leading to soggy tomatoes. Fry them in batches for a crispier outcome.
• Skipping the cooling rack: Placing fried tomatoes directly on paper towels traps steam and makes them soggy. Use a cooling rack to maintain that crunch.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: Too much or too little sauce can overpower the sandwich. Adjust mayonnaise, mustard, and spices to achieve a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month to retain flavor and texture.

Reheating Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, but be aware this may soften the crunch.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwich in the skillet for about 5 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme.

What type of bread is best for this sandwich?

A thick-cut high-quality white bread works best as it holds up well against the fillings while providing a nice contrast with the crunchiness of fried tomatoes.

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute turkey bacon with plant-based bacon or omit it entirely. This keeps the essence of the sandwich intact while catering to vegetarian preferences.

How do I achieve perfectly crispy fried tomatoes?

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures each slice fries evenly and becomes crispy.

What toppings pair well with the Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme?

Consider adding avocado, sliced jalapeños, or even fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich – Alrightwithme is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! Customize it with your favorite ingredients or sauces to make it truly yours. Whether you’re enjoying it as a lunch option or serving it at gatherings, this sandwich promises satisfaction in every bite.