Bacon is a staple in many households, and there are countless ways to prepare it. Boiled bacon is a classic recipe that is easy to make and incredibly flavorful. In this recipe, we will show you how to make boiled bacon step-by-step, from selecting the right cut of meat to serving it up on a plate.
Ingredients
To make boiled bacon, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound of bacon
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, roughly chopped
2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
Water
Bacon
When it comes to selecting bacon for boiling, look for a cut that has a good balance of fat and meat. The fat will keep the bacon moist and tender during cooking, while the meat will provide flavor and texture.
Vegetables and Spices
The vegetables and spices in this recipe are used to flavor the bacon and the cooking liquid. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Bacon
Start by placing the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add enough water to cover the bacon by about an inch.
Step 2: Adding the Vegetables and Spices
Next, add the quartered onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, bay leaves, and whole black peppercorns to the pot.
Step 3: Bringing to a Boil
Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the bacon simmer gently.
Step 4: Skimming the Surface
As the bacon simmers, you may notice foam and impurities rising to the surface. Use a spoon or a skimmer to remove these impurities and keep the cooking liquid clear.
Step 5: Checking for Doneness
Check the bacon for doneness after about an hour of simmering. The bacon should be tender and fully cooked, but not falling apart.
Step 6: Removing from the Liquid
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the cooking liquid. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing or serving.
Nutrition
Calories and Fat
Boiled bacon is a relatively low-calorie and low-fat way to enjoy this tasty meat. One pound of bacon contains around 2,400 calories and 200 grams of fat. However, because the bacon is boiled and not fried, much of the fat is rendered out and left behind in the cooking liquid.
Protein
Bacon is also a good source of protein, with one pound containing around 120 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, as well as for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Vitamins and Minerals
Bacon is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, but it does contain small amounts of several important nutrients. For example, one pound of bacon contains around 20% of the recommended daily intake of niacin, a B-vitamin that helps the body convert food into energy.
Conclusion
Boiled bacon is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic meat. By following these simple steps, you can make perfectly tender and flavorful boiled bacon every time. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy!