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. Since ancient times, this savory and salty pork product has been a breakfast mainstay, appearing on pizza, salads, sandwiches, and more. But let's find out: what is bacon exactly, and how is it made?

An Overview of Bacon's Past. Though the exact origin of bacon is unknown, the process of curing pork belly has been around for thousands of years. Bacon production spread throughout Europe during the Roman era, and as early as 1500 BC, the Chinese were curing pig bellies. Bacon was one of the first meats that European settlers brought to the Americas and gained popularity in England in the 1500s.

Different Germanic and French dialects are the source of the term "bacon.". Old High German "bakkon" eventually gave rise to English "bacoun.". It is evident that bacon has 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. Side, back, and pork loin cuts are the sources of additional bacon cuts. 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. After that, it is gently smoked for days at a low heat over a wood fire. As the bacon cooks, this gives it an irresistible smoky flavor. It's finally sliced and packaged for our bacon-loving enjoyment!

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. Most "American-style" bacon is like this one.

Back bacon is made from the loin located at the back of the pig. Compared to streaky bacon, it's leaner.

Moreover derived from lean pork loin is Canadian bacon. Usually, it is offered pre-sliced.

Using turkey meat instead of pork results in turkey bacon. There's a faint taste of turkey.

Sliced extremely thin, prosciutto is a dry-cured ham prepared in the Italian manner. Pancetta: Italian bacon that hasn't been smoked and is used as a seasoning. How to Cook Bacon to Flavor. Although it may seem easy to cook bacon, there are a few tricks and tips you can use to get the best results. Pan-frying is a classic method that lets you cook bacon to the exact crispiness you want. Place the strips in a cold pan and cook them over medium heat, stirring from time to time.

Bake: Place the strips on a baking sheet covered with foil, and bake for 10 to 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Less spatter! Microwave: Fast, but may cause uneven cooking. Place the strips in the microwave in 30-second intervals between paper towels.

Allow the cooked bacon to cool on paper towels. Fun Ways to Eat Bacon: Save the flavorful drippings for cooking. Due to its versatility, bacon is a favorite for burgers and sandwiches, including cheeseburgers and BLTs. It also works well with eggs and pancakes for breakfast. Bacon bits add flavor to vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and salads. Baked potatoes and pizza go together like clockwork when bacon is added. Desserts - How about maple bacon on donuts or cupcakes? Sounds delicious! Candied bacon - Roasted and coated in maple or brown sugar, this dish combines sweetness and saltiness. Bacon: Moderation is the key to its health benefits. Because of its high sodium and saturated fat content, overconsumption may pose health risks. There is also evidence connecting certain cancers 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, 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. Knowing the ingredients and preparation methods lets you select your favorite method of consuming this famous dish. Just watch what you eat in terms of your health. So go ahead and reward yourself with a mouthwatering bacon breakfast!