What To Know
- A premium bacon made from heritage-breed pigs, resulting in a tender, marbled texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
- A classic bacon with a thin-sliced texture, a subtle smokiness, and a crispy finish.
- Place the bacon slices on a preheated grill or smoker and cook according to the desired level of crispiness.
Bacon is an indispensable ingredient in the world of barbecue, adding a smoky, savory dimension to any dish. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or roasting, choosing the best bacon for BBQ is crucial to elevate your culinary experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of selecting the perfect bacon for your next backyard adventure.
Understanding Bacon Cuts
Bacon is derived from pork belly, which is divided into three main cuts:
- Pancetta: Italian-style bacon, cured with salt and spices, with a firm texture and rich flavor.
- Slab Bacon: Thick-cut bacon, typically 1/2 inch or more, with a meaty and chewy texture.
- Regular Bacon: Thin-sliced bacon, typically 1/16 inch thick, with a crispy and flavorful texture.
Factors to Consider
When selecting the best bacon for BBQ, consider the following factors:
- Thickness: Thick-cut bacon holds up well on the grill and provides a satisfying bite.
- Smokiness: Choose bacon with a subtle smokiness to complement the other flavors in your BBQ dishes.
- Curing: Wet-cured bacon, immersed in a salt and spice solution, has a more pronounced flavor than dry-cured bacon.
- Fat Content: Bacon with a higher fat content will render more flavor and create a crispier texture.
- Brand: Different brands use varying curing and smoking techniques, so try different options to find your preferred flavor profile.
Top Bacon Recommendations
Based on the factors above, here are some of the best bacon options for BBQ:
- Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Bacon: A thick-cut, wet-cured bacon with a balanced smokiness and rich applewood flavor.
- Snake River Farms Kurobuta Bacon: A premium bacon made from heritage-breed pigs, resulting in a tender, marbled texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Hormel Black Label Bacon: A thick-cut, hickory-smoked bacon with a robust flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Applegate Farms Uncured Bacon: A healthier option, made with uncured pork belly and sea salt, providing a smoky flavor without the added nitrates.
- Wright Brand Hickory Smoked Bacon: A classic bacon with a thin-sliced texture, a subtle smokiness, and a crispy finish.
Preparation and Cooking Techniques
To prepare bacon for BBQ, follow these steps:
- Remove bacon from the refrigerator: Allow the bacon to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Trim excess fat: Trim any excess fat around the edges of the bacon slices to prevent excessive grease splattering.
- Grill or smoke: Place the bacon slices on a preheated grill or smoker and cook according to the desired level of crispiness.
- Monitor temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the bacon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
Pairing Bacon with BBQ
Bacon is a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of BBQ dishes:
- Pulled Pork: Add crispy bacon crumbles to pulled pork for a smoky and savory topping.
- Brisket: Wrap brisket in bacon before smoking to infuse it with flavor and create a crispy outer layer.
- Ribs: Glaze ribs with a sweet and spicy sauce and top with bacon slices for a decadent treat.
- Burgers: Incorporate bacon into homemade burgers for a juicy and flavorful patty.
- Baked Beans: Add bacon to baked beans for a smoky and savory twist on this classic side dish.
Beyond the Grill
In addition to traditional BBQ applications, bacon can also be used in various culinary creations:
- Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Stuff dates with blue cheese and wrap them in bacon for a sweet and savory appetizer.
- Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Roast asparagus spears wrapped in bacon for a crispy and flavorful side dish.
- Bacon Jam: Create a sweet and smoky jam by simmering bacon, onions, and brown sugar.
- Bacon Brittle: Combine bacon, sugar, and butter to create a crispy and addictive treat.
- Bacon Ice Cream: Yes, it exists! Indulge in the unique and savory flavor of bacon-infused ice cream.
Final Note: Savor the Sizzle
Choosing the best bacon for BBQ is an art form that elevates your culinary creations to new heights. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can select the perfect bacon that will sizzle and smoke to perfection, adding an unforgettable flavor dimension to your backyard barbecue feasts.
Frequently Discussed Topics
- What is the best way to cook bacon for BBQ?
Grilling or smoking bacon over medium heat allows the fat to render slowly and evenly, resulting in a crispy and flavorful texture.
- Can I use bacon grease for basting?
Yes, bacon grease adds a rich and smoky flavor to your BBQ dishes. Brush it over meats or vegetables during cooking.
- How long does bacon last in the refrigerator?
Unopened bacon lasts for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Once opened, it should be used within 5-7 days.
- What are the health benefits of bacon?
Bacon is a good source of protein, zinc, and B vitamins. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.
- Can I freeze bacon?
Yes, bacon can be frozen for up to 6 months. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging and thaw before cooking.
