The BLT Sandwich: An American Classic
Name a more iconic sandwich, we’ll wait. The BLT is a heavy lifter on the menu of any self-respecting sandwich joint, deli, or diner. The oh-so-satisfying combination of crisp, salty bacon cut with the coolness of tomato and lettuce and the zestiness of mayonnaise puts it at the top of our sandwich list. It’s so simple, but when you put the perfect flavors together, you really don’t need much else!
We’ve Got History with the BLT Sandwich
The BLT has been an American favorite for over a century! Making its first appearance in 1903 in the Good Housekeeping Everyday Cook Book, the BLT was originally named the “Club Sandwich.” This is thought to be because they were often served on US railways in “club” cars, hence the original “club sandwich” name. Back then it included a generous slice of turkey as well. It went from Club to BLT when waiters began writing down the order as “BLT”, standing for “bacon, lettuce, tomato”. And the rest is sandwich history!
What You’ll Need to Make the Perfect BLT
Homemade mayonnaise: Trust us on this one! Not only is it super easy to make, it really is the difference between a good BLT and the best BLT.
Bacon: Since this is the star and the “B” in BLT, you’ll want to use thick cut bacon for the most flavor and texture. You can cook this in a pan or make it in the oven!
Butter lettuce: A nice, tender lettuce that is mild in flavor is best for the “L”!
Large tomatoes: Heirlooms or beefsteak tomatoes are great for this!
Your favorite bread, sliced and toasted. The best bread to use for a BLT is sturdy, like whole wheat, rye, sourdough, or pumpernickel. Something that can bring some flavor and texture of its own to the table! Remember, we’re not making an average BLT here.
How to Make the Best BLT
Luckily, the BLT is a fairly low maintenance sandwich, and very uncomplicated to make. Our favorite kind!
Toast up your bread and spread a little homemade mayonnaise onto the inside of each slice.
Stack a leaf of lettuce or two onto the bottom slice. Then weigh them down with the tomato slices. Last but not least, add your cooked, thick bacon (make sure it's good quality!). Top with the second slice of bread, mayo side down.
Sink your teeth into your best homemade BLT yet!
Tools You’ll Need
Toaster: You’ll need this to give your bread that satisfying crunch!
Serrated knife: You can use this for both your bread and your tomatoes.
Immersion blender: This will make whipping up that homemade mayonnaise a breeze!
Baking sheet: This is for the bacon! If you’re cooking it in the oven, you’ll also need parchment paper and paper towels.
What to Eat with Our BLT Recipe
Even the great BLT can always be made even better with a good side dish. Depending on your mood, whether it be sweet, briny, savory, or spicy, any of these are mouthwatering options!
Time for a BLT Bonanza
Whether you’re having people over or just trying to reinvigorate your weekday lunches, our BLT will not disappoint- that’s a promise. So get stacking, and show us what you got by tagging us over on @themodernproper or #themodernproper!
