Fried Green Tomato Clubs

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp; drain on paper towels and reserve the drippings in the pan.

   Step 2

   In a shallow dish, mix together the cornmeal, salt, pepper, cayenne, and sugar. Add the tomatoes, and toss to coat.

   Step 3

   Heat the reserved drippings over medium heat; add the tomatoes, and fry until golden, about 2 minutes per side.

   Step 4

   Spread the mayonnaise over the cut sides of the biscuits; fill each with 1 to 2 slices fried tomatoes, 1 slice each bacon and cheese, and pickled onions. Sprinkle with hot sauce, if desired.

2. Pickled Red Onions

   Step 5

   Put the onions in a colander set in a large bowl. Toss with the salt; refrigerate 1 hour. Rinse the onions under cold water; drain.

   Step 6

   Bring the vinegar, sugar, spices, bay leaf, and chile to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring constantly. Let cool completely.

   Step 7

   Add the onions to the vinegar mixture in the pan; bring to a boil. Immediately transfer the onions to an airtight container using a slotted spoon. Let the vinegar mixture cool completely; pour over the onions. Refrigerate at least 1 week before serving (onions will keep 2 weeks more).