Last Updated on August 2, 2024 by Nina
A Fried Green Tomato BLT is a Southern-inspired sandwich that replaces the traditional ripe red tomatoes with crispy, tangy fried green tomatoes. This variation is believed to have originated in the American South, where fried green tomatoes are a beloved staple.
A Brief History of the BLT sandwich and its origins
Before we dive into my personal connection with the Fried Green Tomato BLT, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of its predecessor, the classic BLT. The BLT, short for Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato, has been a beloved sandwich for over a century. Its origins can be traced back to the late 1800s when tea sandwiches became popular in England. The combination of bacon and lettuce appeared in various recipe books, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that tomatoes were added to create the iconic trio.
The BLT gained widespread popularity in the United States after World War II, when supermarkets made fresh lettuce and tomatoes more readily available year-round. Its simple yet satisfying combination of flavors quickly made it a staple in American cuisine, paving the way for creative variations like the Fried Green Tomato BLT.
Fried Green Tomato BLT – My favorite snack
For me, the Fried Green Tomato BLT is more than just a sandwich – it’s a taste of Southern comfort that brings back fond memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. I remember the first time I tried this unique twist on a BLT at a small diner in Georgia. The crispy, tart green tomatoes paired perfectly with the salty bacon and creamy mayo, creating a flavor explosion I’ll never forget.
Now, whenever I spot green tomatoes at the farmer’s market, I can’t resist buying a few to recreate this delicious sandwich at home. The process of slicing the tomatoes, dredging them in cornmeal, and frying them to golden perfection is a ritual I’ve come to cherish. Sharing these sandwiches with friends and family on a lazy weekend afternoon has become a cherished tradition in my household.
How to make a Fried Green Tomato BLT
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 large green tomato sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg beaten
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 4 slices bacon cooked
- 2 leaves of lettuce
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Instructions
- Set up your dredging station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten egg in another, and mix cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
- Dip each tomato slice in flour, then egg, then cornmeal mixture, making sure it's well coated.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated tomato slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spread mayonnaise on each slice of toast. Layer with lettuce, bacon, and fried green tomatoes. Add any optional ingredients if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving - 1 Sandwich):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 100mg |
| Sodium | 1000mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
Health-conscious alternatives
While the classic Fried Green Tomato BLT is a delicious indulgence, you can make it more nutritious with these modifications:
- Use whole grain bread instead of white bread for added fiber
- Opt for turkey bacon or Canadian bacon to reduce fat content
- Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a protein boost
- Air fry the green tomatoes instead of pan-frying to reduce oil usage
- Use a cooking spray instead of oil when pan-frying
- Add extra vegetables like cucumber slices or sprouts for more nutrients
- Use a low-carb wrap instead of bread to reduce calorie intake
- Replace bacon with grilled portobello mushroom slices for a vegetarian option
- Use avocado as a spread instead of mayonnaise for healthy fats
Remember, these alternatives may slightly alter the taste and texture of the original recipe, but they can still result in a delicious and more health-conscious meal.
Serving and storing
How to eat a Fried Green Tomato BLT
Serve your Fried Green Tomato BLT immediately while the tomatoes are still warm and crispy. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crisp potato chips or a tangy coleslaw. For drinks, try it with a cold sweet tea or a crisp lemonade for the ultimate Southern experience.
How to store leftovers
While Fried Green Tomato BLTs are best eaten fresh, you can store leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to crisp them up before assembling your sandwich.
How long does a Fried Green Tomato BLT last
A fully assembled Fried Green Tomato BLT is best eaten immediately. If you need to make them in advance, keep the components separate and assemble just before eating. The fried green tomatoes will stay crispy for a few hours at room temperature, but after that, they may start to soften.