Arteflame Grilled BLT Recipe

Introduction:

A BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwich is a classic favorite, and making it on the Arteflame grill elevates it to a whole new level. The smoky flavor from the grill adds depth to the crispy bacon, toasted bread, and juicy grilled tomatoes, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 4 slices of sourdough or rustic bread
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 4 leaves of crisp romaine or iceberg lettuce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added tang)
• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting the bread)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.
2. Clean the flat cooktop surface to ensure an even cooking area.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Place the bacon slices near the center of the flat cooktop, where the heat is higher.
2. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
3. Move the cooked bacon to the outer cooler zones or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.

Step 3: Grill the Tomatoes

1. Place the tomato slices on the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly charred but still firm.
3. Remove from the grill and set aside.

Step 4: Toast the Bread

1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place the bread, buttered side down, on the flat cooktop and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Flip the bread and lightly toast the other side.

Step 5: Assemble the BLT

1. Spread mayonnaise (and Dijon mustard, if using) on the toasted sides of the bread.
2. Layer the sandwich as follows:
   • Start with lettuce on the bottom slice of bread.
   • Add grilled tomato slices.
   • Top with crispy bacon.
   • Cover with the second slice of bread.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the sandwich in half for easy handling.
2. Serve with a side of chips, pickles, or a simple green salad.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled BLT

1. High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and bakery-quality bread for the best results.
2. Even Cooking: Use the medium-heat zone for grilling tomatoes to prevent them from becoming too soft.
3. Customize Your Spread: Add avocado slices or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.
4. Bacon Control: Cook bacon to your desired crispness, but watch it closely to avoid burning on the high-heat zones.

Variations

1. Avocado BLT: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
2. Cheesy BLT: Add a slice of melted cheddar or Swiss cheese.
3. Spicy BLT: Spread sriracha mayo on the bread for a kick.
4. Egg BLT: Top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast version.
5. Turkey BLT: Add slices of turkey for a protein-packed sandwich.

Pairings

• Sides: Serve with crispy potato chips, grilled asparagus, or coleslaw.
• Drinks: Pair with lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp lager.

Conclusion

Grilling a BLT on the Arteflame brings a smoky twist to this classic sandwich. With perfectly crispy bacon, charred tomatoes, and toasted bread, this BLT is sure to become a favorite outdoor meal.