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
- Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.
- Clean the flat cooktop surface to ensure an even cooking area.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Place the bacon slices near the center of the flat cooktop, where the heat is higher.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
- 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
- Place the tomato slices on the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly charred but still firm.
- Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place the bread, buttered side down, on the flat cooktop and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the bread and lightly toast the other side.
Step 5: Assemble the BLT
- Spread mayonnaise (and Dijon mustard, if using) on the toasted sides of the bread.
- 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
- Slice the sandwich in half for easy handling.
- Serve with a side of chips, pickles, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled BLT
- High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and bakery-quality bread for the best results.
- Even Cooking: Use the medium-heat zone for grilling tomatoes to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Customize Your Spread: Add avocado slices or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.
- Bacon Control: Cook bacon to your desired crispness, but watch it closely to avoid burning on the high-heat zones.
Variations
- Avocado BLT: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Cheesy BLT: Add a slice of melted cheddar or Swiss cheese.
- Spicy BLT: Spread sriracha mayo on the bread for a kick.
- Egg BLT: Top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast version.
- 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.
