National Blt Day

A cheerful person bites into a delicious sandwich, surrounded by a sunny picnic scene with fresh ingredients and a hint of nostalgia.. — National blt day illustration

Hey there, sandwich enthusiasts! Get ready to indulge in the crispy, tasty goodness of the beloved BLT as we celebrate National BLT Day. Set your taste buds to max because this is a day for savoring the perfect combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato. Let's dive right into the world of BLTs and explore the history behind this mouthwatering creation!

When is Blt Day?

It's national blt day on the 22nd July.

The Birth of the BLT

Deliciously simple, even its name is a trove of sandwich inspiration. The BLT, also known as the Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato sandwich, is an all-time classic. With a tantalizingly crispy texture, smoky bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato, the BLT has captured hearts and stomachs around the world.

So, where did this heavenly creation first come to life? While the exact origin is somewhat elusive and shrouded in sandwich mysteries, several stories claim to explain the birth of the BLT.

Some say it dates back to the early 1900s, when variations of bacon sandwiches began appearing in cookbooks, often using different ingredients. But it wasn't until the 1920s that the BLT as we know it emerged onto the sandwich scene, gaining popularity across the United States. This iconic sandwich even starred in a cookbook called ''Seven Hundred Sandwiches'' by Florence A. Cowles, published in 1932.

A Sandwich Star is Born

Since then, the BLT has become a staple in diners, restaurants, and home kitchens worldwide. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds an irresistible smoky flavor, while the crisp lettuce provides a refreshing crunch. And let's not forget the bright red, juicy tomatoes that bring a burst of tangy sweetness to the sandwich.

Over the years, people have put their own spin on the BLT by adding extra ingredients such as avocado, cheese, or a smear of mayo. But no matter how you dress it up, the classic combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato remains the heart and soul of this celebrated sandwich.

History behind the term 'Blt'

1920

Birth of the sandwich

The term 'blt' originated from the classic sandwich known as the BLT, which stands for bacon, lettuce, and tomato. The BLT sandwich is believed to have been created in the United States around the 1920s. It became popular due to the availability of ingredients, especially during the summer when tomatoes were in season.

1920

Birth of the Sandwich

In the year 1920, the term 'blt' originated with the birth of the iconic sandwich. Although the exact origins of the sandwich itself are unclear, it gained popularity during this time. The BLT typically includes bacon, lettuce, and tomato, layered between two slices of bread. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

1930s

Blazing into popularity

During the 1930s, the BLT sandwich gained significant popularity across the United States. It was featured in numerous cookbooks and became a staple item on many restaurant menus. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes quickly became a favorite for people of all ages.

1950

Introduction of the Acronym

In the 1950s, the term 'blt' began to be commonly used as an acronym for the 'bacon, lettuce, and tomato' sandwich. The acronym allowed people to refer to the sandwich using a shorter and more convenient term. This also helped popularize the sandwich further, as it became easier to order and talk about.

1950s

The birth of the shorthand term

In the 1950s, the abbreviation 'blt' began to be commonly used as a shorthand term for the bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. It made ordering the sandwich quicker and easier, and the term quickly caught on in diners and cafes around the country.

1970

Rise in Popularity

During the 1970s, the 'blt' sandwich experienced a significant rise in popularity. It became a staple in American cuisine, served at diners, restaurants, and even homemade lunches. The combination of bacon's savory flavor, the refreshing crunch of lettuce, and the juiciness of ripe tomatoes made the BLT universally loved.

1984

Inclusion in The New York Times

The year 1984 marked an important milestone for the 'blt' sandwich. It gained recognition and legitimacy when The New York Times published a recipe and article about the classic sandwich. This increased exposure helped spread the popularity of the BLT beyond its traditional American roots and introduced it to a wider audience.

1970s

BLT in popular culture

The 1970s saw the BLT sandwich becoming an iconic symbol of American cuisine. It was frequently mentioned and featured in movies, TV shows, and literature. Its simple yet delicious combination of ingredients represented a taste of America and became synonymous with comfort food.

Present

BLT's enduring popularity

Today, the term 'blt' is recognized worldwide as the acronym for the beloved bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. It has become a classic and is still enjoyed by millions of people around the globe. The BLT continues to evolve with various creative variations, such as adding avocado, cheese, or different types of bread.

Present

Continued Love for the BLT

Today, the 'blt' remains a beloved sandwich choice around the world. It has evolved into various variations, such as adding avocado, different types of bread, or incorporating other ingredients. The BLT has transcended its humble beginnings to become a timeless classic that continues to satisfy taste buds and evoke nostalgic memories.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world's largest BLT sandwich was made in 2019? It measured a whopping 64 feet long and used over 1,000 pounds of bacon, 600 heads of lettuce, and 440 pounds of tomatoes. Talk about a sandwich that could feed a small army!