Ingredients:

  • 8 slices good quality streaky bacon rashers, cut into small lardons
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (optional, if frying)
  • 1 block (8 oz / 225g) full-fat Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (240g) full-fat Sour Cream or Greek Yoghurt
  • ½ cup (120g) quality Mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • ½ tsp Onion Powder
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground Black Pepper
  • ½ tsp Fine Sea Salt
  • 2 medium ripe Tomatoes, thoroughly deseeded and finely diced
  • 3 cups shredded Iceberg or Romaine Lettuce
  • 2 Tbsp finely chopped Fresh Chives (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bacon: Cook the diced bacon until it is extremely crisp. (Method: Sauté in a pan until golden, or bake on a tray). Remove the bacon and drain it thoroughly on kitchen paper to remove excess fat. Let cool completely—this is vital for maximum crunch.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the tomatoes in half and gently scoop out the watery seeds and pulp. Discard the seeds. Finely dice the remaining tomato flesh (This prevents the dip from becoming soggy). Finely shred the lettuce and set aside.
  3. Mix the Creamy Base: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yoghurt), and mayonnaise. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. Season the mixture by adding the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until just combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Assemble and Chill: Spread the entire creamy mixture evenly into your shallow serving dish. Scatter the deseeded, diced tomatoes evenly over the cream cheese layer, gently pressing them down slightly. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. (This allows the flavors to properly marry.)
  5. The Grand Finish (Just Before Serving): Remove the BLT dip from the refrigerator. Lightly sprinkle the finely shredded lettuce over the top of the dip. Scatter the cooled, crispy bacon evenly over the lettuce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives and serve immediately with your chosen dippers.