This American classic is available at deli counters year-round, but at ’wichcraft, it’s a seasonal sandwich served only when local tomatoes are at their peak. For us, this is a tomato sandwich, with crisp bacon (be sure it’s good quality!) and Bibb lettuce serving almost as condiments. We use a thick slice of tomato, say 1/2 inch, well seasoned with sea salt, really good pepper, and even a little olive oil. This is one of the sandwiches for which architecture matters, so please pay attention to the assembly instructions. For a special kick, rub a peeled garlic clove over the bread before assembling. A mix of heirloom tomatoes is ideal, combining colors and tones, sweetness and acidity. Imagine a slice of red plum, a slice of green zebra, and a slice of German yellow: summer in a sandwich.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 4 sandwiches
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
In a heavy skillet, over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until golden brown and crisp on both sides. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Toast the bread on one side only. Evenly spread the mayonnaise on the toasted side of 4 slices of bread. Place the tomatoes on top of the mayo, making sure that the slices don’t overlap and the surface of the bread is covered. Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper. Place the bacon over the tomatoes, followed by the lettuce. Close the sandwiches with the remaining 4 bread slices, toasted side down. Carefully cut into halves and serve.
Note
Step 2
Sit the tomato stem side down on the counter and using a very sharp knife, slice it horizontally to prevent the juices from running out.
