What To Know
- Add a touch of sweetness to your bacon by adding a small amount of brown sugar or maple syrup to the water.
- Cook the bacon with water until it’s almost done, then remove it from the skillet and finish cooking it in the oven for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Cook the bacon in a vacuum-sealed bag submerged in a water bath for a perfectly tender and evenly cooked result.
Cooking bacon with water may seem like an unconventional method, but it’s a game-changer that unlocks a world of crispy, juicy, and flavorful bacon. This technique offers several unique advantages that will elevate your breakfast or any dish you add bacon to.
Benefits of Cooking Bacon with Water
1. Reduced Mess and Splatter
The biggest hassle of cooking bacon is the mess it creates. Water acts as a barrier, preventing grease from popping and splattering all over your stovetop and kitchen. It makes cleanup a breeze, saving you time and effort.
2. Even Cooking
Water helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring that every strip of bacon cooks to perfection. This prevents overcooking the edges while leaving the center undercooked. The result is consistently crispy and evenly browned bacon.
3. Enhanced Flavor
The steam created by the water infuses the bacon with moisture, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful experience. It also helps extract the bacon’s natural oils, creating a richer and more complex taste.
4. Less Shrinkage
Water minimizes shrinkage during cooking, allowing you to get more bacon for your buck. As the bacon cooks, the water evaporates, preventing it from curling up and losing valuable meat.
5. Healthier Alternative
Cooking bacon with water reduces the amount of fat that renders out, making it a slightly healthier option compared to traditional frying methods. The water helps trap some of the grease, preventing it from burning and releasing harmful compounds.
How to Cook Bacon with Water
Materials
- Bacon strips
- Large skillet
- Water
Instructions
1. Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet.
2. Add enough cold water to cover the bottom of the skillet by about 1/4 inch.
3. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your desired crispiness.
5. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Tips for Cooking Bacon with Water
- Use cold water to prevent the bacon from shrinking too much.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the bacon over low heat to prevent burning.
- Monitor the water level and add more if needed.
- Experiment with different amounts of water to find your preferred crispiness level.
Variations
1. Flavored Bacon
Add your favorite spices or seasonings to the water for a flavorful twist. Try garlic powder, black pepper, or chili flakes.
2. Crispy Bacon Bits
Cut the bacon into small pieces before cooking it with water. This creates crispy bacon bits that are perfect for salads, soups, or sandwiches.
3. Candied Bacon
Add a touch of sweetness to your bacon by adding a small amount of brown sugar or maple syrup to the water.
The Verdict: Is Cooking Bacon with Water Worth It?
Absolutely! Cooking bacon with water is an easy and effective method that delivers crispy, juicy, and flavorful bacon with less mess and hassle. Whether you’re a seasoned bacon lover or a novice cook, give this technique a try and experience the difference.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Advanced Techniques
1. Reverse-Seared Bacon
Cook the bacon with water until it’s almost done, then remove it from the skillet and finish cooking it in the oven for a crispy exterior and tender interior.
2. Sous Vide Bacon
Cook the bacon in a vacuum-sealed bag submerged in a water bath for a perfectly tender and evenly cooked result.
3. Smoked Bacon
Add some smoky flavor to your bacon by cooking it with water in a smoker.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Can I use hot water to cook bacon?
No. Using hot water can cause the bacon to shrink and curl up excessively. Cold water helps prevent this.
2. How long should I cook bacon with water?
The cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired crispiness level. Generally, cook for 10-15 minutes over low heat.
3. Can I cook bacon in a microwave with water?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Microwaving bacon can result in uneven cooking and a chewy texture.
