Blat (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, Tomato) Sandwich

Blat (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, Tomato) Sandwich Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Blat (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, Tomato) Sandwich

The BLAT sandwich, a delightful twist on the classic BLT, incorporates creamy avocado into the traditional bacon, lettuce, and tomato ensemble, creating a richer and more flavorful experience. This version of the BLAT sandwich recipe elevates the simple pleasure of a BLT by adding the smooth texture and nutty taste of avocado, along with the subtle sharpness of green onions, making it a perfect choice for any meal of the day. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a light dinner, this BLAT sandwich recipe promises to deliver a delicious and fulfilling experience.

History

The BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwich has its roots deeply embedded in American culinary tradition, with its popularity soaring in the early 20th century as the ingredients became more readily available year-round. The addition of avocado, transforming the BLT into a BLAT, is a more recent innovation, reflecting the growing trend towards incorporating healthier fats into traditional dishes. Avocados, with their rise in popularity due to their health benefits and creamy texture, have found their way into various cuisines, making the BLAT a modern classic that combines tradition with contemporary tastes.

Ingredients

1 medium california avocado
1 medium tomato
2 green onions
10 slices frozen bacon
0.25 head of lettuce
0.5 cup mayonnaise (or to taste)
8 slices bread
Optional: tortillas, crackers

How to prepare

Finely dice the tomato and avocado.
Chop the onion into small pieces and finely shred the lettuce.
Slice the frozen bacon into thin strips, fry until crisp, and drain off the grease.
Put all the ingredients into a mixing bowl, add mayonnaise, and stir until everything is well combined.
Spread the mixture onto bread slices for sandwiches or spread a thin layer on a tortilla and roll up.
Slice the mixture into approximately 0.75-inch wide pieces or put 0.5 tsp of the mixture on each cracker.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon.
Add a fried egg on top for a more filling breakfast sandwich.
Incorporate a spicy element with a drizzle of sriracha mayo or a few slices of jalapeño.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your BLAT sandwich is as delicious as possible, consider these tips and tricks:

- Use ripe but firm avocados for the best texture and flavor.

- Opt for thick-cut bacon for a more substantial bite and deeper flavor.

- Toasting the bread lightly will add crunch and prevent it from becoming soggy from the mayonnaise and tomato.

- Drain the bacon well on paper towels to remove excess grease, keeping the sandwich from becoming too oily.

- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayo.

Serving Suggestions

The BLAT sandwich can be served with a side of mixed greens, a light soup, or your favorite chips for a complete meal. For a brunch option, consider pairing it with a fruit salad or a smoothie.

Cooking Techniques

For the best results, consider frying the bacon until it's just crispy enough to add texture without becoming too hard. Dicing the avocado and tomato into small, uniform pieces will ensure they blend well with the other ingredients without overpowering the sandwich.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the mayonnaise with avocado mayo or a vegan mayo for a healthier option.

- Use any type of lettuce you prefer, such as romaine or spinach, for different textures and flavors.

- If you're not a fan of green onions, try thinly sliced red onions for a milder taste.

Make Ahead Tips

The bacon can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The avocado should be cut just before assembling the sandwich to prevent browning. However, adding a little lemon juice to the avocado can help keep it fresh if needed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the BLAT sandwich open-faced for a visually appealing presentation, garnishing with extra slices of avocado or a sprinkle of paprika for color. A side of pickles or olives can also add a nice touch to the plate.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold beer pairs wonderfully with the richness of the BLAT sandwich. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or lemon to refresh the palate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

It's best to consume the BLAT sandwich fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store the components separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before eating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single BLAT sandwich can range from 400 to 600 calories, depending on the size and the specific ingredients used. The major contributors to the calorie count are the bacon, mayonnaise, and avocado.

Carbohydrates

A typical serving of a BLAT sandwich contains approximately 35-45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the bread and the vegetables, particularly the tomato and avocado. Opting for whole grain or whole wheat bread can increase the fiber content, making it a healthier option.

Fats

The BLAT sandwich is relatively high in fats, primarily due to the avocado, bacon, and mayonnaise. However, it's important to note that the fats from avocado are mostly monounsaturated, which are heart-healthy fats. A single serving can contain between 20 to 30 grams of fat, depending on the amount of mayonnaise and bacon used.

Proteins

This sandwich provides a good source of protein, mainly from the bacon, with a single serving offering approximately 15-20 grams of protein. To increase the protein content, one could add more bacon or include a slice of cheese or a spread of hummus.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of nutrients, providing significant amounts of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. Tomatoes add to the vitamin C and potassium content, while lettuce offers vitamin A and additional vitamin K. Together, these ingredients make the BLAT sandwich a nutritious option that contributes to your daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include wheat (from the bread) and eggs (from the mayonnaise). Individuals with gluten intolerance can opt for gluten-free bread, and those avoiding eggs can choose egg-free mayonnaise alternatives.

Summary

Overall, the BLAT sandwich is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. By making mindful choices about the ingredients, it can be adapted to fit various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

The BLAT sandwich is a versatile and satisfying meal that combines the classic flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato with the creamy richness of avocado. With its balance of nutrients and the ability to customize to personal taste and dietary needs, it's a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, the BLAT sandwich is sure to delight with its combination of textures and flavors.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for a BLAT (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, Tomato) sandwich. It was a sunny summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor harvest some fresh tomatoes from her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her kitchen and offered to make me a sandwich for lunch.

I watched in awe as she carefully cooked crispy bacon in a skillet, sliced ripe avocados, and assembled the sandwich with layers of lettuce, tomato, and creamy mayo. With each bite, I could taste the perfect combination of flavors and textures - the salty bacon, the creamy avocado, the juicy tomato, and the crunchy lettuce. It was a simple yet delicious sandwich that I knew I had to learn how to make.

After thanking my neighbor for the wonderful meal, I asked her for the recipe. She smiled and handed me a handwritten card with the ingredients and instructions. I tucked it away in my recipe box, knowing that I would be making BLAT sandwiches for years to come.

Over the years, I have collected recipes from various places and people, but the BLAT sandwich has always held a special place in my heart. It has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the summer months when fresh tomatoes and avocados are in abundance. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has always been a hit.

One summer, my granddaughter came to visit me, and I decided to teach her how to make the BLAT sandwich. We spent the afternoon in the kitchen, slicing tomatoes, mashing avocados, and frying up bacon. As we assembled the sandwiches together, I shared with her the story of how I first learned to make this delicious meal.

She listened intently, her eyes wide with curiosity and excitement. I could see the same sense of amazement that I felt all those years ago reflected in her own eyes. It warmed my heart to pass down this recipe to her, knowing that it would be cherished and enjoyed for generations to come.

As we sat down to eat our BLAT sandwiches, I watched my granddaughter take her first bite with a smile of pure satisfaction on her face. The flavors of the bacon, avocado, tomato, and lettuce danced on her taste buds, and I knew that she had truly mastered the art of making the perfect BLAT sandwich.

I have always believed that food has a way of bringing people together, and the BLAT sandwich is a prime example of that. It may be a simple recipe, but it has the power to create lasting memories and moments of joy. I am grateful for the opportunity to pass down this recipe to my granddaughter, knowing that she will carry on the tradition of making delicious BLAT sandwiches for years to come.