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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 pizza, salads, and sandwiches. But let's find out: what is bacon really like, and how is it made?

A Synopsis of Bacon's History. The art of curing pork belly goes back thousands of years, though it's difficult to say exactly when bacon originated. 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.

There are several Germanic and French dialects that give rise to the term "bacon.". Eventually, the Old High German word "bakkon" became the English word "bacoun.". It's obvious that bacon has long been adored everywhere!

What Makes Bacon? The foundation of traditional bacon is the fatty underbelly of the pig, known as the pork belly, which contains a mottled mixture of fat and meat. Additional cuts of bacon are obtained from the back, side, or hog loin. Instead of using pork, turkey or chicken bacon is made from cuts of birds.

Curing, preserving, and flavoring pork belly involves the use of salt, nitrates, nitrites, and occasionally sugar or maple syrup. Then, it is gently smoked over low heat for several days over a wood fire. This cooks the bacon and adds enticing smoky notes. It is then packaged and sliced for all of our bacon-loving delights!

Many Bacon types. There are several types of bacon, but these are the most popular ones: streaky bacon, which is made from pork belly with long fat veins. This is the bacon that is most commonly prepared "American-style.".

The bacon from the back of the pig is called back bacon. It's not as fat as streaky bacon.

Lean pork loin is also the source of Canadian bacon. Usually, it comes pre-sliced.

Turkey bacon: Instead of using pork, turkey meat is used. There's a faint flavor of turkey.

Prosciutto is very thinly sliced dry-cured ham prepared in the Italian style. Pancetta: An Italian bacon that hasn't been smoked and is used as a spice. How to Cook Bacon to Flavor. 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 cold pan and cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat.

Place the strips on a baking sheet covered with foil, and bake for 10 to 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Minimal splashing! Microwave: Fast, but may cause uneven cooking. In 30-second increments, place the strips between paper towels and the microwave.

Place cooked bacon on paper towels to drain. Fun Ways to Eat Bacon: Save the flavorful drippings for cooking. Bacon is a favorite because of its versatility. It goes well with pancakes, eggs, bacon and eggs, home fries, and much more! It also adds crunch and flavor to burgers and sandwiches, including cheeseburgers and BLTs. Bacon bits add flavor to vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and salads. 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. When it comes to bacon, moderation is key. Is Bacon Good for You? It contains a lot of sodium and saturated fat, both of which increase health risks when consumed in excess. There is also evidence connecting certain cancers to the nitrates used to cure bacon.

Nevertheless, bacon provides zinc, B vitamins, and protein. To lower nitrates, look for uncured or turkey bacon; alternatively, choose center-cut bacon, which has less fat. As part of a balanced diet, indulge in bacon in moderation along with lots of veggies.

It's obvious that bacon has a special place on our plates and in our hearts. You can select your preferred method of consuming this famous dish by being aware of its preparation and varieties. For your own health, just be aware of servings. So go ahead and reward yourself with a mouthwatering bacon breakfast!