🥓 What Is Side Bacon?
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Also known as: Streaky bacon or American-style bacon
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Cut from: The pork belly, which gives it its signature layers of fat and meat
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Texture: Crispy when fried or baked, with a chewy-fatty bite depending on cook time
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Flavor: Rich, smoky, salty — often cured and sometimes smoked
🍳 How to Cook Side Bacon
1. Pan-Fry (Classic Method)
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Place strips in a cold skillet, then turn heat to medium.
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Cook 6–10 minutes, flipping as needed, until desired crispness.
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Drain on paper towels.
2. Oven-Baked (Less Mess)
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Lay bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet.
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Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15–20 minutes.
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Optional: Use a wire rack for extra crispness.
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Great for making large batches.
3. Microwave (Quickest)
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Place strips between layers of paper towel on a plate.
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Microwave on high: 1 minute per slice, plus 30 seconds per extra slice.
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Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
🧑🍳 Ways to Use Side Bacon
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Breakfast classic: With eggs, toast, or pancakes
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BLT sandwiches
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Wrapped around: chicken, shrimp, scallops, or asparagus
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Chopped into: salads, baked potatoes, mac and cheese, or deviled eggs
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Bacon bits for dips or casseroles
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Bacon jam (slow-cooked with onions, brown sugar, and vinegar)
🧊 Storage & Tips
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Fridge: Raw bacon lasts about 1 week once opened
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Freezer: Freeze slices in parchment layers for up to 3 months
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Don’t discard fat! Save bacon grease to cook veggies, eggs, or cornbread
Would you like a recipe using side bacon? Maybe something like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, bacon mac & cheese, or a hearty bacon and potato skillet?
