Britains Favourite Sandwich : The BLT and Its Tasty History
When it comes to lunchtime staples, nothing hits the spot quite like a good sandwich. In Britain, we’re spoiled for choice – from hearty ham and cheese to egg mayo, coronation chicken, and beyond. But standing tall as the Britain’s favourite sandwich is a classic that combines crunch, sizzle, and a refreshing bite all in one – the beloved BLT.
At Lauren’s Catering, we’ve seen sandwich trends come and go over our 30 years of serving up delicious food to hungry workers and event-goers, but the BLT remains a firm favourite on our menus – and with good reason. In this blog, we take a bite into the history of the BLT, how it became Britain’s favourite sandwich, and why this timeless trio of ingredients still wins over taste buds today.
What Is a BLT?
Let’s start with the basics. A BLT is a sandwich made with Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato – hence the name. Typically served on toasted bread with a spread of mayonnaise, the BLT is praised for its satisfying texture and balanced flavours. The salty, crispy bacon complements the fresh crunch of lettuce and the juicy sweetness of tomato, all brought together in a perfectly layered sandwich.
But while the ingredients are simple, the harmony they create is anything but ordinary – which might explain why it’s such a consistent bestseller across cafes, sandwich vans and supermarket shelves across the UK.
The Origins of the BLT
Although the exact origin of the BLT is a little murky, most food historians agree that it evolved from older sandwiches that featured bacon and other fresh ingredients. The combination can be traced back to tea sandwiches served in Victorian England, where bacon, lettuce, and tomato would appear in various forms on dainty platters.
However, the modern BLT as we know it today rose to popularity in post-war America, particularly in the 1950s and 60s, when bacon became more widely available and refrigeration made it easier to store lettuce and tomato for longer periods. It’s believed the term “BLT” first started appearing in print in the 1970s, and since then, it has become a fixture of menus across the world – including right here in the UK.
Why Brits Love the BLT
So, why has the BLT become Britain’s favourite sandwich? There are a few reasons this classic continues to top the charts:
- Simplicity – The BLT doesn’t try too hard. It’s simple, honest food – no frills, just great ingredients done well.
- Texture and Flavour – The balance of crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato, crispy bacon, and soft bread makes every bite satisfying.
- Versatility – The BLT is easily customisable. Some people like it with brown sauce, others with avocado or a fried egg. It can be enjoyed on white bread, granary, or even a soft roll.
- Nostalgia – Many of us have fond memories of BLTs as a quick weekend lunch, or packed up for picnics and day trips.
YouGov poll, the BLT came out on top as the UK’s most loved sandwich, beating close contenders like chicken and bacon, tuna mayo, and prawn cocktail. It seems our national love affair with the BLT is showing no signs of slowing down!
The BLT at Lauren’s Catering
At Lauren’s Catering, the BLT has long been a hero of our snack vans and buffet menus. Whether we’re serving workers across Gloucester from our mobile fleet or delivering to an event, the BLT is one of the most requested sandwiches time and time again.
What makes our BLT so popular? It starts with quality. We use thick-cut, locally sourced bacon cooked until perfectly crispy, paired with fresh iceberg lettuce and juicy vine tomatoes. We finish it off with a light spread of mayo and sandwich it all between two slices of fresh bread – either soft or toasted, depending on your preference.
It’s a simple pleasure, but one that never fails to deliver.
Fun BLT Facts
- The world’s largest BLT was made in Michigan, USA, in 2008 and measured over 200 feet long!
- BLT sandwiches are so iconic they even have their own national day in the US – April 4th is celebrated as National BLT Day.
- There’s a vegetarian version too, often made with smoked aubergine or coconut “bacon” for those who love the flavour profile but follow a plant-based diet.
A Sandwich for All Seasons
Whether it’s eaten hot on a cold winter’s day or enjoyed cold in the summer sunshine, the BLT truly is a sandwich for all seasons. Its popularity has stood the test of time, and while we’re always creating new additions to our menu, the humble BLT continues to be a reliable favourite for one reason – it’s just that good.
So next time you spot one of our vans or are planning a catered event, why not go for the nation’s favourite and order a BLT? We guarantee it’ll be one of the first to disappear from the platter!
Looking for tasty, freshly made sandwiches delivered straight to your door or workplace? Get in touch with Lauren’s Catering today on 01452 382690 to book a snack van or catering service – and don’t forget to ask for a BLT!
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