As I stood in my kitchen, the summer sun streaming through the window, the vibrant green tomatoes on my countertop caught my eye. I couldn’t resist the urge to transform them into something delightful, and that’s how I stumbled upon the Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich. This unique twist on the classic BLT features crispy bacon and fresh, crisp lettuce, complemented by thick slices of cornmeal-crusted green tomatoes that deliver a satisfying, crunchy texture along with a hint of tartness. Not only is this recipe a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weekdays, but it also brings that comforting Southern charm to your dining table. Whether enjoyed during a weekday lunch or at a weekend gathering, each bite will transport you to those sunny Southern picnics of yore. Curious to learn how to whip up this delicious sandwich? Let’s dive in!
Why Try This Fried Green Tomato BLT?
Irresistible crunch: The combination of cornmeal crusted green tomatoes and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering texture that’s hard to resist.
Quick & Easy: This sandwich comes together in no time, making it perfect for a busy weekday lunch or a casual get-together.
Southern Charm: It celebrates the beloved flavors of Southern cuisine, bringing comfort food right to your table.
Versatile: Swap ingredients easily—try turkey bacon or add spicy pickles for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at your next gathering; you’ll be the star of the show with this unique take on a classic BLT! Pair it with some Homemade Green Bean casserole or some Fried Pineapple Coconut for a complete Southern feast.
Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich Ingredients
For the Fried Green Tomatoes
• Green Tomatoes – unripe varieties like beefsteak or early girl create the perfect crunch and tang.
• Cornmeal – finely ground for a beautifully crunchy coating that enhances the texture.
• Flour – helps bind the coating to ensure a deliciously crisp bite.
• Milk – adds moisture to the egg wash for better adhesion during frying.
• Egg – acts as a binding agent in the egg wash, creating a perfect crust.
For the Sandwich Assembly
• Bacon – cook to your desired crispness for rich, savory goodness.
• Lettuce – choose crisp varieties for the freshest crunch in every bite.
• Bread – lightly toasted to prevent sogginess, allowing the flavors to shine through.
• Mayonnaise – spreads creaminess over the bread; consider remoulade for an elevated flavor.
For the Flavor Boost
• Cayenne Pepper – add a dash for a subtle heat that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Sugar – enhances caramelization during frying for that golden-brown perfection.
Dive into this Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich, and experience the delightful Southern twist it brings to your comfort food repertoire!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook several strips of bacon over medium heat until they reach your desired level of crispness, typically about 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease, ensuring it stays crispy for the sandwich assembly.
Step 2: Slice the Tomatoes
While the bacon cools, take your green tomatoes and slice them into 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick rounds. The thickness will ensure that they maintain their texture during frying. Place the slices on a paper towel to absorb moisture and prepare them for breading.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1 beaten egg until well combined. This egg wash will coat the tomato slices, helping the cornmeal breading adhere. Set this aside while you prepare the breading mixture.
Step 4: Mix the Breading
In another shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of finely ground cornmeal, 1/2 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors for the perfect crunch on your Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom and heat it over medium-high until it reaches about 350°F. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately. This temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust.
Step 6: Dredge the Tomatoes
Dunk each slice of green tomato into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off before coating it in the cornmeal mixture. Ensure each slice is thoroughly covered, creating a nice layer for frying. Once all slices are coated, you’re ready to fry.
Step 7: Fry the Tomatoes
Carefully add the coated tomato slices to the hot oil in batches, frying for 3–4 minutes on each side or until they are a beautiful golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain consistent heat. Once cooked, transfer them onto paper towels to remove any excess oil.
Step 8: Make the Sauce
In a small jar, combine your mayo or remoulade with any desired spices and shake well to mix. This sauce adds creaminess and flavor, enhancing the crunchiness of the fried tomatoes and the crispy bacon in your Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich.
Step 9: Assemble the Sandwich
Finally, toast your choice of bread lightly to prevent sogginess. Spread a generous layer of sauce on both sides of the toasted bread, then layer with the crispy fried green tomatoes, cooked bacon, and fresh lettuce. Serve immediately and savor the warm, comforting flavors of this Southern delight!
What to Serve with Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
Savor the layers of flavor in this delightful sandwich by pairing it with complementary sides that enhance every bite.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing provide a cooling contrast to the crispy sandwich, making each bite delightful.
Cold Potato Salad: A classic side, its creamy texture pairs perfectly with the tartness of the fried green tomatoes while fresh herbs add a touch of brightness.
Kettle-Cooked Potato Chips: Their extra crunch mirrors the fried green tomatoes, delivering a satisfying texture that everyone loves.
Sweet Tea: A Southern staple, the refreshing sweetness of the tea balances the savory flavors of the sandwich and quenches your thirst perfectly.
Deviled Eggs: Creamy and rich, these classic appetizers offer a smooth complement, adding a touch of nostalgia to your meal.
Watermelon Salad: Light and refreshing, the sweetness of the watermelon with a sprinkle of feta brings a delightful contrast to the savory sandwich.
Peach Cobler: This warm dessert completes your Southern meal by providing a comforting finish that pairs wonderfully with the crunch of the tomatoes.
Make Ahead Options
These Crunchy Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their deliciousness on even the busiest days! You can fry the green tomatoes and cook the bacon up to 3 days in advance; simply store both in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. To reheat, place the fried tomatoes in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness while the bacon can be gently warmed in a skillet. Assemble the sandwich just before serving to ensure that every bite remains delightfully crunchy and fresh. This method not only saves you time but also allows you to enjoy a homemade, comforting meal any day of the week!
Expert Tips for Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
- Perfectly Crisp: Ensure your oil is hot enough—testing it with a drop of water helps achieve that crispy coating every time.
- Keep It Dry: Pat your tomato slices dry before breading to remove excess moisture, which helps maintain a crunchier texture in your Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the tomatoes in batches; this prevents overcrowding in the skillet, ensuring even cooking and perfect golden brown results.
- Let It Rest: After frying, allow the tomatoes to rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil, maintaining their delicious crispiness for your sandwich.
- Toast Just Before Serving: Toast the bread right before assembling your sandwich to prevent it from getting soggy due to steam from the hot ingredients.
Storage Tips for Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich
Fridge: Store assembled sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 1 day, but be aware that the bread may soften.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Keep leftover fried green tomatoes in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store them in a separate airtight container to maintain their crunch.
Bacon: If you have extra bacon, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet to restore crispiness before adding to the sandwich.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze fried green tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for the best texture.
Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful sandwich, allowing your taste buds to explore new flavors and textures!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap out bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier option that still delivers on taste.
- Avocado Addition: Add creamy slices of avocado for a rich mouthfeel that complements the crunchy tomatoes perfectly.
- Spicy Pickles: For a kick, toss in spicy pickles—these little zingers will elevate your sandwich to a whole new level.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in place of lettuce for a fresh and aromatic twist that brightens every bite.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs while enjoying this fantastic flavor combo.
- Buffalo Sauce: Drizzle a bit of buffalo sauce over the fried tomatoes for an unexpected burst of heat and flavor that will thrill fans of spicy foods.
- Sautéed Greens: Swap out the lettuce for sautéed greens like spinach or kale; this adds a hearty, nutritious element to the traditional sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Toast: Replace the regular bread with baked sweet potato slices for a gluten-free and vibrant alternative that’s slightly sweet and nutritious.
With these variations, you can ensure that your Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich remains a delightful and personalized feast at your table! If you want to explore more delightful Southern flavors, consider serving it alongside some Homemade Green Bean casserole or a tropical treat like Fried Pineapple Coconut.
Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What type of green tomatoes should I use?
Absolutely! For the best crunch and tang, I recommend using unripe varieties like beefsteak or early girl tomatoes. These tomatoes have just the right texture to hold up during frying and enhance your Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich.
How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! If you have leftover fried green tomatoes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. I suggest placing them in a separate container from any bread or sauce to maintain their delightful crunch. As for the assembled sandwiches, they are best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 1 day; however, be aware that the bread may soften.
Can I freeze fried green tomatoes? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your fried green tomatoes, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2-3 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from the freezer in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to regain their crispiness.
What if my fried green tomatoes are soggy?
Oh no! If you find that your fried green tomatoes are soggy, there are a few tips to help. First, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying; it should reach about 350°F. Patting the tomato slices dry with a paper towel before breading also helps reduce moisture. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying to maintain even cooking and crispness. If they don’t turn out right the first time, don’t get discouraged—practice makes perfect!
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes, indeed! For a vegetarian twist on the Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich, swap out the bacon for crispy fried tempeh or even smoked tofu for that savory flavor. You can also add avocado slices for creaminess or spicy pickles for an extra kick. The beauty of this recipe is all about being versatile while keeping that Southern charm!
Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich: A Southern Crunch Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook several strips of bacon over medium heat until they reach your desired level of crispness, typically about 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Slice the Tomatoes: Slice green tomatoes into 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick rounds and place them on a paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1 beaten egg. Set aside.
- Mix the Breading: Combine cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and sugar in another bowl. Stir thoroughly.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a skillet to cover the bottom and heat over medium-high until it reaches about 350°F.
- Dredge the Tomatoes: Dunk each tomato slice into the egg wash, then coat in the cornmeal mixture.
- Fry the Tomatoes: Fry the coated tomato slices in hot oil for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Make the Sauce: Combine mayonnaise or remoulade with any desired spices and shake well.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the bread, spread sauce, and layer with fried green tomatoes, bacon, and lettuce.