Across many cultures and cuisines, bacon is one of the most beloved foods. For centuries, this savory and salty pork product has been a breakfast mainstay, appearing in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and pizza. But let's find out what bacon is really like and how it's made!

A Synopsis of Bacon's Life History. Although the exact origin of bacon is unknown, the process of curing pork belly has been done for thousands of years. As early as 1500 BC, the Chinese were curing their pork belly, and the Romans also contributed to the expansion of bacon production throughout Europe. One of the first meats that European settlers brought to the Americas was bacon, which rose to popularity in England in the 1500s.

Different Germanic and French dialects are the source of the term "bacon.". Old High German "bakkon" eventually gave rise to the English word "bacoun.". It is evident that bacon has long been a global favorite!

What Makes Bacon: The foundation of traditional bacon is the fatty underbelly of the pig, known as the pork belly, which contains a mottled mixture of fat and meat. The back, side, or pork loin are the sources of additional bacon cuts. Bird parts are used in place of pork in turkey or chicken bacon.

Using salt, nitrates, nitrites, and occasionally sugar or maple syrup, the pork belly is cured, preserved, and flavored. After that, it is gently smoked over low heat for several days over a wood fire. As the bacon cooks, this adds smoky notes that are irresistible. It's finally sliced and packaged for our bacon-loving enjoyment!

Bacon types. Some common types of bacon are as follows: Streaky bacon: Made from pork belly with long fat veins, this type of bacon is not made equally. This bacon is most commonly prepared "American-style.".

Back bacon is made from the pig's loin in the back. It's not as fat as streaky bacon.

Lean pork loin is also used to make Canadian bacon. Usually, it comes pre-sliced.

Turkey bacon is made with turkey meat instead of pork. There's a faint flavor of turkey.

Thinly sliced dry-cured ham in the Italian style is called prosciutto. Italian bacon without smoke, or pancetta, is used as a seasoning. How to Cook Bacon to Flavor. Although cooking bacon might seem easy, there are a few tricks and tips you can use to get the best results: pan-frying is a classic method that lets you cook bacon to the exact crispiness you want. Place the strips in a cold pan and cook them over medium heat, stirring from time to time.

Place the strips on a baking sheet covered with foil, and bake for 10 to 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Minimal splashing! Microwave: Fast, but may cause uneven cooking. In 30-second intervals, place the strips between paper towels and the microwave.

Allow the cooked bacon to cool on paper towels. Fun Ways to Eat Bacon: Save the flavorful drippings for cooking. Owing to its versatility, bacon is a favorite in burgers and sandwiches (from cheeseburgers to BLTs), breakfast dishes (bacon and eggs, pancakes, you name it), and home fries. Brussels sprouts and salads: Bacon bits add flavor to vegetable sides. Bacon makes the ideal topping for pizza and baked potatoes. Desserts - How about maple bacon on donuts or cupcakes? Sounds delicious! Candied bacon - Roasted and coated in maple or brown sugar, this dish combines sweetness and saltiness. You should always consume bacon in moderation. It contains a lot of sodium and saturated fat, both of which increase health risks when consumed in excess. There is also evidence connecting certain cancers to the nitrates used to cure bacon.

But bacon does contain zinc, B vitamins, and protein. To lower nitrates, choose turkey or uncured bacon; alternatively, go for center-cut bacon, which has less fat. Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and moderation in bacon.

It's obvious that bacon has a special place on our plates and in our hearts. Knowing the ingredients and preparation methods lets you select your favorite method of consuming this famous dish. Just be aware of serving sizes in terms of your health. You deserve a delicious bacon breakfast, so go ahead and indulge!