A Guide to Everyone’s Favorite Pork Product: What is Bacon?
One of the most popular foods in many different cultures and cuisines is bacon. For centuries, people have used this savory and salty pork product as a mainstay for breakfast, adding it to a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and pizza. But let’s find out: what is bacon really like, and how is it made?
A Synopsis of Bacon’s Life History. Pork belly curing has been done for thousands of years, though the exact origins of bacon are unknown. Bacon production spread throughout Europe during the Roman era, and as early as 1500 BC, the Chinese were curing pig bellies. One of the first meats that European settlers carried to the Americas was bacon, which rose to popularity in England in the 1500s.
Various Germanic and French dialects are the source of the term “bacon.”. English “bacoun” eventually evolved from Old High German “bakkon.”. Bacon has obviously long been a global favorite!
What Makes Bacon? Traditionally, bacon is made from the fatty underside of pigs, known as the pork belly, which contains a mixture of fat and meat that varies in color. Additional bacon cuts are from the side, back, or pig loin. Cuts from the birds are used in place of pork in turkey or chicken bacon.
Using salt, nitrates, nitrites, and occasionally sugar or maple syrup, the pork belly is cured, preserved, and flavored. After that, it is gently smoked over low heat for several days over a wood fire. This cooks the bacon and adds enticing smoky notes. It’s finally cut into slices and packaged for all of our bacon-loving delights!
Bacon types. Some common types of bacon are as follows: Streaky bacon: Made from pork belly with long fat veins, this type of bacon is not made equally. This is the bacon that is most commonly prepared “American-style.”.
Back bacon is made from the pig’s loin in the back. Compared to streaky bacon, it is leaner.
Moreover derived from lean pork loin is Canadian bacon. Usually, it is sold already sliced.
Turkey bacon: Instead of using pork, turkey meat is used. There’s a faint flavor of turkey.
Sliced extremely thin, prosciutto is a dry-cured ham prepared in the Italian manner. Italian bacon without smoke, or pancetta, is used as a seasoning. The Perfect Way to Cook Bacon. Bacon may seem easy to cook, but there are a few tricks and tips to ensure the best results. Pan-fry: This classic technique lets you cook bacon to the right crispness. Place the strips in a chilled pan and cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat.
Bake: Place the strips on a baking sheet covered with foil, and bake for 10 to 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Microwave: Fast, but may cause uneven cooking. Less splatter. In 30-second intervals, place the strips between paper towels and the microwave.
Allow the cooked bacon to cool on paper towels. Fun Ways to Eat Bacon: Reserve the flavorful drippings for cooking. Owing to its versatility, bacon is a favorite in burgers and sandwiches (from cheeseburgers to BLTs), breakfast dishes (bacon and eggs, pancakes, you name it), and home fries. Brussels sprouts and salads: Bacon bits add flavor to vegetable sides. Bacon makes the ideal topping for pizza and baked potatoes. Desserts: Candied bacon, which is bacon that has been roasted and coated in maple or brown sugar for a sweet and salty treat, is perfect on donuts or cupcakes. Moderation is key when it comes to bacon, so is it good for you? It has a high sodium and saturated fat content, which can be harmful if ingested in excess. Certain cancers have also been connected to the nitrates used to cure bacon.
Nevertheless, bacon contains zinc, B vitamins, and protein. Select center-cut bacon for less fat, or look for uncured or turkey bacon to lower nitrates. As part of a balanced diet, enjoy bacon in moderation and lots of veggies.
It’s obvious that bacon has a special place on our plates and in our hearts. Knowing the ingredients and preparation methods lets you select your favorite method of consuming this famous dish. For your own health, just be aware of servings. You deserve a delicious bacon breakfast, so go ahead and indulge!