The Perfect BLT

Method

1. 1

   Step 1

   Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C / Gas 6), with a rack in the center. Line a 13 × 18-inch (33 × 46 cm) rimmed baking sheet with foil, turning up the edges to contain the bacon fat.

2. 2

   Step 2

   Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the prepared sheet without overlapping. Bake for 18–25 minutes, rotating the sheet after 12 minutes, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is deep golden and crisp at the edges; begin checking at 15 minutes because thickness varies.

3. 3

   Step 3

   Meanwhile, arrange the tomato slices on a plate and sprinkle evenly with the salt and pepper. Let stand for 5 minutes, then lightly blot any pooled juice with a paper towel / kitchen paper without pressing the flesh.

4. 4

   Step 4

   Check that the lettuce is completely dry, including along the ribs, and tear the leaves to fit the bread. Refrigerate until assembly so they stay cold and crisp.

5. 5

   Step 5

   Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate and let drain for 2–3 minutes; it will firm up as it cools. Meanwhile, spread the butter thinly over one side of each bread slice and heat a 12-inch (30 cm) skillet / frying pan over medium heat for 2 minutes.

6. 6

   Step 6

   Toast the bread in two batches, buttered-side down, for 2–3 minutes until golden, then turn and toast the unbuttered side for 1–2 minutes until lightly crisp. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 1 minute so the bread does not steam or immediately warm the mayonnaise.

7. 7

   Step 7

   Place all four bread slices buttered-side down and spread the upward-facing sides evenly with the mayonnaise. Divide the lettuce between two slices, add the tomatoes, then top each with four bacon slices, breaking them to fit if necessary.

8. 8

   Step 8

   Close each sandwich with a remaining bread slice, mayonnaise-side down, and press gently to settle the layers without squeezing out the tomato juices. Cut in half with a serrated knife and serve immediately, while the toast and bacon are crisp and the lettuce is cold.