commit b5731197d5abaa84694321d6600b546f3be5dc63 Author: tiaragreenhalg Date: Fri Apr 5 14:49:14 2024 +0200 Add A Guide to Everyone's Favorite Pork Product: What is Bacon? diff --git a/A-Guide-to-Everyone%27s-Favorite-Pork-Product%3A-What-is-Bacon%3F.md b/A-Guide-to-Everyone%27s-Favorite-Pork-Product%3A-What-is-Bacon%3F.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..82abbad --- /dev/null +++ b/A-Guide-to-Everyone%27s-Favorite-Pork-Product%3A-What-is-Bacon%3F.md @@ -0,0 +1,27 @@ +Across many cultures and cuisines, bacon is one of the most beloved foods. 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 History. Although the exact origin of bacon is unknown, the process of curing pork belly has been done for thousands of years. As early as 1500 BC, the Chinese were curing their pig bellies, and the Romans contributed to the expansion of bacon production throughout Europe. One of the first meats imported to the Americas by European settlers, bacon gained popularity in England in the 1500s. + +There are several Germanic and French dialects that give rise to the term "bacon.". Old High German "bakkon" eventually gave rise to the English word "bacoun.". 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 cuts of bacon are obtained from the back, side, or hog loin. Cuts from the birds are used in place of pork in turkey or chicken bacon. + +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 over low heat for several days over a wood fire. When cooking the bacon, this adds notes of irresistible smoke. 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 bacon is most commonly prepared "American-style.". + +Back bacon is made from the pig's loin in the back. Compared to streaky bacon, it's leaner. + +Lean pork loin is another source of Canadian bacon. Pre-sliced is how it is usually sold. + +Instead of using pork, turkey meat is used to make turkey bacon. It tastes a little like turkey. + +Thinly sliced dry-cured ham in the Italian style is called prosciutto. Pancetta: An Italian bacon that hasn't been smoked and is used as a spice. How to Cook Bacon to Flavor. While cooking bacon might seem easy, 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 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. 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: Reserve 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. Brussels sprouts and salads: Bacon bits add flavor to vegetables. Bacon makes the ideal topping for baked potatoes and pizza. Desserts: I'm all for maple bacon on donuts or cupcakes! Candied bacon is bacon that's roasted and coated in maple or brown sugar for a delicious combination of sweetness and salt. [Bacon](https://bacon.com/): Moderation is the key to its health benefits. It has a high sodium and saturated fat content, 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. 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 vegetables. + +Of course, we have a particular place on our plates and in our hearts for bacon. You can select your favorite method of consuming this famous dish by being aware of how it's prepared and the various varieties. Just watch what you eat in terms of your health. So feel free to reward yourself with a mouthwatering bacon breakfast! \ No newline at end of file