Home-cured bacon has a distinct, rich flavour that is far superior to anything mass-produced. However, to truly enjoy the taste and ensure that it remains fresh, it’s important to know how to store and cook your home-cured bacon properly. In this blog, we will guide you through the best practises for storing and cooking your home-cured bacon, helping you get the most out of each slice.
Storing Your Home Cured Bacon: Tips for Maximum Freshness
The key to keeping your home-cured bacon fresh is proper storage. Unlike supermarket bacon, which is often loaded with preservatives and additives, home-cured bacon relies on a more natural process. Here's how to store it effectively:
Refrigeration is Essential
The first step in keeping your home-cured bacon fresh is storing it in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper or wax paper before placing it in an airtight container. This will help retain its moisture while preventing the bacon from absorbing any unwanted odours in the fridge.Freezing for Longer Storage
If you have a large batch of bacon that you cannot consume immediately, freezing is a good option. To freeze, first slice the bacon into desired portions and wrap each portion tightly in cling film or foil. Then, place the wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly wrapped, bacon can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing its flavour.Avoid Storing in Plastic Wrap
While plastic wrap may seem like a convenient choice, it can cause the bacon to sweat and lose its fresh texture. Always use breathable wrapping like parchment or wax paper for optimal storage.Use Your Bacon Within a Week for Best Results
Although home-cured bacon is less likely to spoil as quickly as mass-produced options, it’s best to consume it within a week of purchase. This will ensure that it maintains its peak flavour and texture.
How to Cook Home Cured Bacon for the Perfect Taste
Now that your home-cured bacon is stored properly, it’s time to cook it. Cooking bacon may seem simple, but when done right, it can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some essential tips for cooking your home-cured bacon to perfection:
Use a Cold Pan for Crispy Bacon
One of the secrets to getting crispy bacon is to start with a cold pan. Place your bacon slices in the pan without preheating it. As the pan heats up, the fat from the bacon will slowly render, making the bacon crispier without burning it.Avoid Overcrowding the Pan
When cooking bacon, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If the bacon slices are too close together, they will steam rather than crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each slice has enough space.Cook on Medium Heat
While it may be tempting to crank up the heat to cook the bacon faster, medium heat is ideal for rendering the fat properly and achieving a crispy texture. Cooking on high heat can cause the bacon to burn before it becomes crispy.Consider Grilling or Baking
If you want to avoid the mess of frying, consider grilling or baking your home-cured bacon. To bake, place the bacon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and cook in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. Grilling is another great option, especially during the warmer months.Pat Dry for Extra Crispiness
After cooking, use a paper towel to blot off any excess grease. This simple step will help make your home-cured bacon extra crispy and reduce the greasiness that can sometimes overwhelm the flavour.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Home Cured Bacon
Home-cured bacon is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Bacon Sandwich: Stack crispy slices of bacon on fresh, crusty bread with your favourite condiments.
- Breakfast Platters: Serve alongside eggs, avocado, and toast for a hearty, traditional breakfast.
- Salads: Crumble cooked bacon over a fresh salad for added texture and smokiness.
- Pasta Dishes: Add it to pasta dishes for an extra layer of flavour. It pairs particularly well with creamy carbonara.
The Importance of Quality Bacon
When it comes to bacon, quality matters. It takes great pride in offering home-cured bacon that’s made using only the finest ingredients. By choosing home-cured bacon from trusted suppliers, you ensure that your meals are made with the best quality meat, which can be tasted in every bite.
