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More than almost any other food, bacon is a top choice for BBQ aficionados. And much like steak, food connoisseurs also prefer a specific level of doneness for their bacon. And while everyone’s personal tastes do vary, the question remains: can you tell when raw bacon is cooked? What’s the best way to prepare bacon?
Follow us as we explain the best ways to prepare bacon!
Bacon: From Raw to Cooked
While opinions may differ on its ideal level of doneness, there is a strict protocol against uncooked bacon. Like many other meats, raw bacon contains bacteria that could be harmful if ingested. And yet, bacon stands out on its own for being packaged in thin slices that make it difficult to measure with a meat thermometer. So while the USDA recommends cooking bacon until reaches a safe internal temperature of 148°F (64°C), putting this theory into practice is more difficult than it sounds.
To accomplish this, we need to go old school. Instead of a thermometer, use your eyes to determine when bacon has been properly cooked. The pinkish hue of raw bacon will have changed to a reddish brown. At the same time, its white-colored fat will have given way to tan or golden hue.
READ: Is Everything Better With Bacon?
More than that, cooked bacon will have transformed its shape. As the fat gets rendered as part of the cooking process, the edges of the bacon will start to curl. Conversely, uncooked bacon will remain limp and soft, unable to hold its shape. In addition to color and texture, bacon will also undergo a size difference. Like other meats, raw bacon can become up to 40% smaller after cooking.
Keep in mind that cooked, cured meat such as bacon can retain a pink color after reaching a safe temperature due to its curing agents. Don’t get apprehensive if your cooked bacon keeps its color!
The Dangers of Uncooked Bacon
It’s very important to be able to tell when bacon is properly cooked. That’s because uncooked bacon presents a risk to your health that should be avoided at all costs.
You should never cook raw bacon halfway and stop, only to cook it later after refrigeration. Interrupting the cooking process will encourage harmful bacteria to grow.
After buying bacon from the store, be sure to take it home immediately. Refrigerate it as soon as you can at temperatures of 40°F (4°C) or below. Bacon can last for up to 7 days in the fridge, while it can keep up to 4 months in the freezer.
To thaw frozen bacon safely, use one of these three methods:
- Fridge: Thaws very slowly over a long period of time; best for thawing overnight
- Cold Water: Thaws slowly over a moderate period of time; be sure not to puncture the package seal
- Microwave: Thaws quickly in minutes
Under no circumstances should you thaw bacon on the counter. Do not let bacon sit at room temperature for extended periods of time. Once thawed, be sure to cook it immediately. If the bacon hasn’t completely thawed, it is still safe to cook (despite the splatter from the ice).
Best Methods for Cooking Bacon
When preparing bacon for your next meal, use one of the following ways:
- Stovetop: Use a flat-bottomed pan (such as cast iron) and cook over medium-low heat in order to render the fat properly. Flip using tongs and relocate to another part of the pan.
- Oven: Cook at 350˚F (177˚C) for 20-30 minutes on a baking pan.
- Microwave: Cook one minute for every strip, cooking a few strips at a time. Cover below and on top with paper towels.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 350˚F for 7 to 9 minutes, longer for a crispier texture.
Bacon Recipes
Hungry for bacon? Incorporate this versatile ingredient in your next meal using these recipes:
Final Thoughts
No matter how you like your bacon, always use the safe way when cooking. As one of the most appealing ingredients for BBQ lovers, bacon is a great food that needs to be enjoyed responsibly.
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