If you're a fan of bacon, you've probably heard of bacon ends & pieces. These are the smaller, less uniform pieces of bacon that often get left behind when packages of regular sliced bacon are made. But just because they're not as pretty doesn't mean they're not delicious!

In terms of calories, 1 serving (0.5 oz) of bacon ends & pieces contains roughly 80 calories. However, the nutritional value of these bits may surprise you.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of bacon ends & pieces and give you all the information you need to enjoy this tasty and versatile ingredient.

What are Bacon Ends & Pieces?

As we mentioned earlier, bacon ends & pieces are the smaller, less uniform pieces of bacon that are often left behind after regular sliced bacon is made. They're not as pretty, but they're just as delicious! Because they're not as uniform, bacon ends & pieces can vary in size and shape. This can make them a bit more difficult to cook, but it also means they can be used in a variety of dishes in creative ways.

Calories in Bacon Ends & Pieces

As we mentioned earlier, 1 serving of bacon ends & pieces (0.5 oz) contains around 80 calories. That may not seem like a lot, but keep in mind that bacon is a high-fat food, so those 80 calories are mostly coming from fat. This doesn't mean you can't enjoy bacon ends & pieces in moderation, but it's important to be mindful of your portion sizes if you're trying to watch your calorie or fat intake.

Nutritional Value of Bacon Ends & Pieces

While bacon ends & pieces are high in fat and calories, they do contain some nutritional value. For example, a 1-ounce serving of bacon ends & pieces contains roughly 6 grams of protein. It also provides some B vitamins and minerals like selenium and phosphorus. Again, the key with bacon ends & pieces is moderation. They can be a flavorful addition to a dish, but they're best enjoyed in small amounts.

Health Benefits of Bacon Ends & Pieces

As a high-fat food, it's hard to argue that bacon ends & pieces are particularly healthy. However, there are a few potential health benefits of including bacon in your diet in small amounts. For example, some studies have suggested that the saturated fat in bacon may not be as harmful as once thought, and may even have some positive effects on cholesterol levels. Additionally, because bacon is so flavorful, using just a small amount of bacon ends & pieces in a dish can help you feel more satisfied with fewer calories overall.

How to Cook Bacon Ends & Pieces?

Cooking bacon ends & pieces isn't much different from cooking regular sliced bacon, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Because the pieces are less uniform in size and shape, they'll cook at different rates. This means you'll need to keep a close eye on them to make sure they don't burn or overcook. One option is to cook bacon ends & pieces in the oven. This can help ensure that they cook evenly and don't stick to the pan. To do this, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and spread out the bacon pieces in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Another option is to cook bacon ends & pieces in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat your skillet over medium heat, and add the bacon pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they're crispy and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat before serving.

Bacon Ends & Pieces Recipes

One of the great things about bacon ends & pieces is that they can be used in a variety of dishes in creative ways. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:

• Bacon-wrapped dates: Stuff pitted dates with goat cheese, wrap in bacon ends & pieces, and bake until crispy.
• Bacon-wrapped asparagus: Wrap asparagus spears in bacon ends & pieces, and roast until tender and crispy.
• Bacon fried rice: Fry bacon ends & pieces in a skillet, then use the same skillet to make fried rice with your favorite vegetables and some scrambled eggs.

Bacon Ends & Pieces vs. Regular Bacon

So what's the difference between bacon ends & pieces and regular sliced bacon? As we mentioned earlier, bacon ends & pieces are the smaller, less uniform pieces of bacon that are left behind when packages of regular sliced bacon are made. This means they're often less expensive than regular bacon, especially if you buy them in bulk. They can also be a great option if you're looking for a flavor-packed ingredient to add to a dish without breaking the bank.

Storage and Shelf Life of Bacon Ends & Pieces

Bacon ends & pieces can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 6 months. To freeze, place the pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag and squeeze out as much air as possible. When you're ready to use them, simply thaw the bacon ends & pieces in the refrigerator or in a bowl of cold water, and cook as desired.

Where to Buy Bacon Ends & Pieces

Bacon ends & pieces can be a bit harder to find than regular sliced bacon, as not all grocery stores carry them. However, you may be able to find them at specialty meat shops or online. If you can't find bacon ends & pieces, you can always make your own by saving the leftover pieces of regular sliced bacon and freezing them until you have enough to use in a recipe.

Conclusion

Bacon ends & pieces may not be as pretty as regular sliced bacon, but they're just as delicious and versatile. They can be a great way to add flavor to a dish without breaking the bank, and they can be used in a variety of creative ways. If you haven't tried cooking with bacon ends & pieces yet, give it a shot! You might be surprised at how tasty and satisfying they can be.