Country Fried B.L.T. with Fresh Herb Aioli

Bacon is considered by many (myself included) to be the ice cream of meats. Breading and frying it in oil takes it to a completely new level. I serve these on slider buns as appetizers for parties.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Calories: 355 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 quart oil for frying
• salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 4 tomatoes, sliced
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• ½ head lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 cup mayonnaise (such as Hellman's®)
• 1 (1 pound) package bacon strips, halved
• 16 small sandwich rolls

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 2

Make the aioli by stirring the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, basil, and dill together in a bowl. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.

Step 3

Stir the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl. Whisk the heavy cream and beaten eggs together in a separate bowl.

Step 4

Dip each piece of bacon into the egg mixture and then into the flour mixture. Repeat the process a second time to assure each piece is heavily coated.

Step 5

Fry the bacon in the hot oil until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Set aside onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Step 6

Spread a generous amount of the aioli onto each roll. Add a slice of tomato to each and season with salt and pepper. Finish the sandwiches with a portion of the lettuce and a few slices of bacon.