Thick Cut Bacon

Thick cut bacon is truly a treat among bacon lovers, boasting a robust flavor profile that lends a unique quality to many dishes. However, cooking this type of bacon can be a bit challenging, particularly for those who are not familiar with it. The main issues people face when working with thick cut bacon are often related to cooking temperature and time. This bacon cut is thicker than regular bacon, which means it requires a longer cooking time and, contrary to popular belief, a lower cooking temperature. If cooked at too high a temperature, the bacon may burn on the outside before the inside has fully cooked, which will result in uneven cooking. Similarly, flipping the bacon strips too frequently can also lead to uneven cooking which would not let your bacon get that desirable crispiness. Now, to get the most out of your thick cut bacon, let's talk about some lesser-known tips and techniques. Firstly, if you're wanting to achieve consistent, crispy, and evenly cooked bacon strips, try cooking them in the oven instead of a frying pan; this method ensures even heat distribution, and therefore even cooking. Also, when you're cooking bacon in the oven, laying the strips on a cooling rack inside a baking sheet can help the fat to render out more efficiently. Another rarely known trick is the utilization of water in the pan when cooking bacon on the stove. Adding just enough water to cover the bacon and cooking on medium heat allows for a slow and even cooking process. Once the water has evaporated, you can turn up the heat to get the desired crispiness. Lastly, remember that good quality thick cut bacon is naturally flavorful. Therefore, less is more when it comes to seasoning or adding additional flavors to the bacon. It's best to let bacon's distinctive taste shine through the dish.