Bacon

Sus scrofa domesticus (pork belly) Meat/Cured Meat

Bacon Meat/Cured Meat

At a Glance

  • Category Meat/Cured Meat

The Forktionary Angle

"More than just breakfast fare, bacon is a flavor powerhouse, offering crispy texture, rich fat, and smoky umami that elevates everything from salads to desserts."

Definition

Salt-cured and often smoked strips of pork belly, renowned for its crispy texture, savory flavor, and rendered fat, used in countless dishes.

Curing Process Typically involves salt, sugar, nitrates/nitrites for preservation and color.
Global Varieties American (streaky), Canadian (back bacon), Pancetta (Italian), Guanciale (Italian).
Rendered Fat Use Bacon fat is highly prized for cooking vegetables, frying eggs, or making gravies.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Bacon are:

Salty smoky savory umami fatty slightly sweet (maple-cured)

Chef’s Secret

Before roasting vegetables, crisp up some bacon, remove it, then roast the vegetables in the rendered bacon fat for incredible depth of flavor. Crumble the bacon over the finished dish.

Best Substitutes

1:1 pancetta

1:1 smoked ham

1:1 turkey bacon

leaner, different texture

Buying Guide

Look for well-marbled strips. Check for "uncured" options if nitrates are a concern.

Recipes Using Bacon

30 Minutes Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Vegetables Tomatoes

A Tomato Well Stuffed

Wow your guests with this stunning stuffed tomato salad! Juicy tomatoes are brimming with a vibrant mix of artichoke hearts, succulent shrimp, and crispy bacon. Make-ahead friendly, this elegant appetizer or light lunch is perfect for summer gatherings or a special weeknight dinner. Get the recipe now!

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Preparation Squash Preparation Occasion

Acorn Squash For 2

Cozy up with this romantic Acorn Squash recipe for two! Choose your favorite topping from three mouthwatering options: maple bacon, browned butter sage, or spicy ginger marmalade. Inspired by a recent butternut squash success with ginger marmalade and chili flakes, this recipe offers a delicious and customizable fall meal. Which topping will you choose?

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Preparation Occasion Number Of Servings Cheese

Almond Cheddar Bacon Bites

Crispy, cheesy, and bacon-y goodness! These Almond Cheddar Bacon Bites are the perfect easy appetizer for your next gathering. Make them ahead and freeze unbaked for ultimate convenience. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for more!

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Dinner Party Vegetables Meat Mushrooms

Almost Alice Chicken

Inspired by the Outback's Alice Springs Chicken, this recipe puts a delicious twist on a classic! Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a zesty blue cheese and cheddar crust, then baked to perfection. Cooking time is flexible based on your oven and desired doneness. (Marinating time not included). Get ready for a flavor explosion that'll transport you to the Australian outback!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Cheese

America's Greatest Gourmet Burgers

Recreate Curtis Stone's incredible gourmet burger recipe, inspired by his popular TV show! This elevated take on the American classic, as seen in episode 161 of Ava's Menu, is bursting with flavor. We've tweaked the recipe to perfection, making it easy to follow for delicious results at home. Get ready for juicy patties, gourmet toppings, and an unforgettable burger experience!

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Meat Preparation Time To Make Dietary

America's Test Kitchen Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy

Experience the rich, decadent flavors of classic Beef Burgundy, effortlessly made in your slow cooker! This America's Test Kitchen-inspired recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef in a deeply flavorful red wine sauce. Forget long stovetop hours – this surprisingly easy recipe is a weeknight winner, perfect for impressing family and friends. Prepare for a taste sensation you won't believe came from a slow cooker!

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Breakfast Kid Friendly Preparation Dietary

Apple Bacon And Cheddar Pancakes

Sweet and savory perfection! These Apple Bacon Cheddar Pancakes are a delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and juicy apples combine with fluffy pancakes for a flavor explosion that will impress the whole family. A welcome change of pace, these pancakes are sure to become a weekend brunch staple.

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Time To Make Occasion Main Ingredient Easy

Asparagus Bundles

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these irresistible Asparagus Bundles! Tender asparagus spears are wrapped in crispy bacon and drizzled with a sweet and tangy glaze. This easy recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for a special occasion or a simple yet satisfying meal. Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite!

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Dinner Party Course Dietary Presentation

Aunt Rebecca's Creamed Potatoes Peas

Indulge in the comforting flavors of home with Aunt Rebecca's Creamy Bacon Potatoes and Peas! This recipe features tender new red potatoes and sweet peas swimming in a luscious, bacon-infused cream sauce. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love.

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Cuisine Cheese 30 Minutes Or Less Brunch

Aussie Breakfast Egg Mess

Kickstart your day with this quick and easy Aussie Breakfast Egg Mess! This vibrant recipe, inspired by the Australian version of Allrecipes and perfect for a ZWT5 challenge, combines savory bacon, colorful peppers, and melty cheese for a truly satisfying breakfast. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 20 minutes!

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Eggs Dairy Breakfast Bacon Time To Make

Aussie Breakfast Fry Up

Experience the Aussie twist on a classic breakfast! This hearty fry-up combines crispy bacon and perfectly fried eggs with a surprisingly delicious side of baked beans. We were skeptical, but the sweet and savory combination is truly addictive. This recipe uses Bush's Original Baked Beans for that authentic flavor. Get ready for a more satisfying breakfast than your usual bacon and eggs – it's a taste of Australia you won't forget!

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High Calcium Preparation Presentation 30 Minutes Or Less

Avocado And Bacon Muffins

These irresistible Avocado & Bacon Muffins are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal! Serve them warm alongside your favorite soup for a comforting lunch or dinner, or bake mini versions for delightful finger food at your next gathering. Crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and a hint of spring onion create a flavor explosion in every bite. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

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Meat Christmas Preparation Course

Babzy's Breakfast Casserole

Start your Christmas morning with a delightful brunch that's ready in minutes! This make-ahead breakfast casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd. Prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven on Christmas Day for a warm and cheesy delight. Featuring crispy bacon, fluffy hash browns, and plenty of melty cheddar, this casserole is a festive holiday tradition you'll love.

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Southern United States Main Ingredient Time To Make Brown Bag

Bacon And Avocado Sandwiches

Experience a flavor explosion with this irresistible Bacon and Avocado Sandwich recipe! Crispy bacon meets creamy avocado in a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Elevated with fresh herbs and a zesty lemon touch, this gourmet sandwich is the perfect lunch or light dinner. Pair it with a crisp glass of Chardonnay and some kettle chips for a complete culinary experience. This recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, sure to impress! #BaconAvocadoSandwich #GourmetSandwich #AvocadoToast #BaconRecipe #EasyRecipe #LunchIdeas #DinnerIdeas #QuickRecipe

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Stove Top High In Something Dietary Spaghetti

Bacon And Egg Spaghetti

This surprisingly delicious spaghetti recipe, unearthed from an old Italian cookbook, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Simple to make and utterly irresistible, especially to kids, this Bacon and Egg Spaghetti will be devoured in minutes. Get ready for family dinner just got a whole lot more exciting!

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Main Ingredient Breakfast Easy Cheese

Bacon And Eggs Casserole

Start your day with this incredibly easy and delicious Bacon and Eggs Casserole! This hearty breakfast bake is perfect for weekend brunches or busy week mornings. Crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese combine for a satisfying and unforgettable taste. Get the recipe now and impress your family and friends!

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Pork Meat Number Of Servings Course

Bacon And Eggs With Tomatoes And Mushrooms

Indulge in a hearty and flavorful English breakfast! This recipe recreates the classic dish from the mystery novel 'Food to Die For,' featuring crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked eggs. A delightful and satisfying meal for any time of day.

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Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation Time To Make

Bacon And Mushroom Penne With Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

This decadent pasta dish elevates a classic pesto recipe with smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy sunflower seeds! A vibrant sun-dried tomato pesto coats perfectly cooked penne pasta, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Easily swap bacon for chorizo for a spicy twist. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.

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