Barbecue Bacon

Barbecue Bacon Recipe - Authentic American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40-50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Barbecue Bacon is a mouth-watering dish that combines the smoky flavor of barbecue with the rich, savory taste of bacon. This recipe takes a simple ingredient like bacon and elevates it with a blend of spices and a touch of sweetness, resulting in a dish that's irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a side dish, Barbecue Bacon is versatile and sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

History

The concept of adding spices and sugar to bacon dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures. However, the specific combination of spices and the method of baking to achieve a crispy, caramelized finish has become popular in recent years, especially in the United States. This recipe is a modern take on traditional methods, incorporating flavors like chili powder and cumin to complement the bacon's natural richness.

Ingredients

5 tbsp of light brown sugar
1 tbsp of chili powder
1 tsp of ground cumin
0.25 tsp of ground red pepper
12 thick bacon slices
vegetable cooking spray

How to prepare

Preheat oven to 350°C. Stir together brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and ground red pepper. Dredge bacon slices in the sugar mixture, pressing to adhere.
Arrange bacon in a single layer on a wire rack coated with cooking spray; place in an aluminum foil-lined jelly-roll pan.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until crisp. Serve hot and plain or with other side dishes.

Variations

For a spicier version, increase the amount of ground red pepper.
Maple syrup can be brushed on the bacon before baking for a sweeter finish.
Try different spice blends, such as a barbecue rub or Cajun seasoning, for variety.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Ensure the bacon slices are coated evenly with the spice mixture for a consistent flavor.

- Lining the pan with aluminum foil makes cleanup easier.

- Using a wire rack allows the bacon to cook evenly on both sides, achieving a perfect crispness.

- Keep an eye on the bacon during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent burning, as the sugar can caramelize quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Barbecue Bacon can be served on its own or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with scrambled eggs and toast for breakfast or can be chopped and added to salads or baked potatoes for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the recommended technique for this recipe as it allows for even cooking and caramelization. However, the bacon can also be cooked in a skillet over medium heat for a more traditional approach.

Ingredient Substitutions

If light brown sugar is unavailable, dark brown sugar or granulated sugar can be used.

- Paprika can be substituted for chili powder for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The spice mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container. The bacon can also be coated with the spice mixture and refrigerated overnight before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the bacon slices on a wooden cutting board for a rustic look, or cut into bite-sized pieces and skewer with toothpicks for easy sharing.

Pairing Recommendations

Barbecue Bacon pairs well with eggs, pancakes, or waffles for breakfast. It also complements grilled vegetables or cornbread as a side dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Barbecue Bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Barbecue Bacon contains approximately 120 calories. The majority of these calories come from the fats and carbohydrates in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Barbecue Bacon contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the light brown sugar. The spices contribute negligible amounts of carbohydrates.

Fats

Bacon is naturally high in fats, with each serving of this recipe containing about 10 grams of fat, the majority of which is saturated. The exact amount may vary depending on the bacon's cut and thickness.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of protein, providing about 6 grams per serving. The protein content can help make this dish a satisfying snack or side.

Vitamins and minerals

Barbecue Bacon provides small amounts of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, phosphorus, and zinc, which are naturally found in bacon. However, it should not be relied upon as a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, those with specific dietary restrictions should check the bacon packaging for any added ingredients.

Summary

Barbecue Bacon is a high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate dish. While delicious, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Barbecue Bacon is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the savory taste of bacon with a sweet and spicy coating. While rich in flavor, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. This recipe is easy to make and can be adapted with various spices or serving suggestions to suit any taste.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, just like today, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box looking for something new to try. I came across a faded index card with the words "Barbecue Bacon" scrawled across it in my grandmother's elegant handwriting.

I remember my grandmother, a formidable cook in her own right, making this dish for family gatherings when I was just a young girl. The sweet and savory aroma of the bacon sizzling on the grill would fill the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I always loved helping her in the kitchen, and I cherished the moments we spent together cooking and sharing stories.

As I read through the recipe, memories of those happy times flooded back to me. The ingredients were simple – bacon, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. The instructions were straightforward, but I knew that the magic of this dish lay in the technique and the love that went into making it.

I decided to give it a try that very evening, eager to recreate the flavors of my childhood. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the steps with care and precision. As the bacon sizzled in the pan, I could already smell the familiar aroma wafting through the kitchen.

I brushed each strip of bacon with a generous coating of brown sugar, watching as it caramelized and turned golden brown under the broiler. The barbecue sauce added a tangy kick, while the cayenne pepper gave it just the right amount of spice. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As I took my first bite, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The flavors were exactly as I remembered – sweet, smoky, and utterly delicious. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling my grandmother's spirit smiling down on me.

From that day on, barbecue bacon became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from friends and loved ones. It became a dish that was synonymous with comfort and love, a reminder of the bond I shared with my grandmother and the joy of cooking together.

Years passed, and I continued to make barbecue bacon, each time adding my own twist or variation to the recipe. I shared it with friends, passed it down to my own children, and even entered it into cooking competitions, where it never failed to impress the judges.

But no matter how many times I made barbecue bacon, it always held a special place in my heart. It was more than just a recipe – it was a memory, a connection to my past, and a tribute to the woman who had inspired my love of cooking.

And as I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of home, I knew that my grandmother's legacy would live on through every delicious bite of barbecue bacon that I shared with others. Whether it was a simple weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this dish would always be a reminder of the love and joy that cooking can bring into our lives.

So as I take a bite of this smoky, savory bacon, I offer a silent thank you to my grandmother, the original creator of this recipe, for passing down her culinary wisdom and inspiring me to create my own delicious memories in the kitchen. And as I share this dish with others, I hope that they too will feel the warmth and love that went into making it – a true taste of family, tradition, and the joy of good food.