If you're a bacon lover, you'll want to hear about thick sliced bacon. Each 12 g slice of this delicious meat is packed with flavor and has only 60 calories, making it a great choice for those watching their weight. But what exactly is thick sliced bacon, and what are the benefits of including it in your diet?

Thick sliced bacon is cut thicker than regular bacon, typically at around 1/4 inch thick. This cut results in a meatier, more satisfying taste and texture. And while bacon is often thought of as an indulgence, it can actually offer some significant nutritional benefits.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of thick sliced bacon, including how to prepare it, cooking tips, creative ways to enjoy it, and more.

What is Thick Sliced Bacon?

Thick sliced bacon is a cut of bacon that is sliced thicker than regular bacon, typically measuring around 1/4 inch thick. This results in a meatier, more satisfying texture that many people prefer. Thick sliced bacon is made from pork belly, just like regular bacon. However, the thickness of the cut and the way it is prepared can affect its nutritional profile and taste. Overall, thick sliced bacon is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes and prepared in a number of ways.

Benefits of Thick Sliced Bacon

While bacon is often considered an indulgence, it can actually offer some potential health benefits when consumed in moderation. Here are some of the benefits of choosing thick sliced bacon:

• High in protein
• Contains healthy fats
• May help with satiety and weight loss
• Can add flavor to otherwise bland dishes

Of course, it's important to remember that bacon should still be consumed in moderation as it is high in calories and saturated fat.

Nutritional Information of Thick Sliced Bacon

Here are the nutritional values for a 12 g slice of thick sliced bacon:

• calories: 60
• Total Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Protein: 3 g

Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary depending on the brand and cooking method used.

How to Prepare Thick Sliced Bacon?

Preparing thick sliced bacon is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some common methods:

• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the bacon. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy.
• Microwave: Place the bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until crispy. Note that the texture may be slightly different than stovetop or oven-cooked bacon.

No matter which method you choose, be sure to flip the bacon occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Cooking Tips for Thick Sliced Bacon

If you want to get the most flavor and texture out of your thick sliced bacon, here are some cooking tips to keep in mind:

• Cook bacon in a single layer to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
• Try adding spices or seasonings to your bacon before cooking, such as black pepper, garlic powder, or chili powder.
• For extra crispy bacon, place it on a rack in your baking sheet to allow excess fat to drip away.
• If you prefer a softer texture, try adding a small amount of water to the pan before cooking. This will help the bacon cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too crispy.

Experiment with different methods and seasonings to find your perfect thick sliced bacon preparation.

Creative Ways to Use Thick Sliced Bacon

While thick sliced bacon is delicious on its own, it can also be used to add flavor and texture to a variety of dishes. Here are some creative ways to use thick sliced bacon:

• Add it to breakfast sandwiches or burritos for a protein boost.
• Crumble it on top of salads or baked potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Use it as a topping for homemade pizzas or flatbreads.
• Wrap it around chicken or shrimp before grilling or baking for a savory twist.
• Use it in place of regular bacon in recipes like Carbonara or BLT sandwiches for a meatier texture.

With its versatility and delicious flavor, thick sliced bacon is a great ingredient to have on hand in your kitchen.

Health Risks Associated with Thick Sliced Bacon

While thick sliced bacon can offer some potential health benefits, it's still important to be aware of the health risks associated with consuming bacon.

• Bacon is high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Bacon is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease.
• Cooking bacon at high temperatures can produce harmful chemicals called nitrosamines.
• Bacon is a processed meat, which has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

To reduce your risk of these health concerns, it's best to limit your consumption of bacon and other processed meats.

How to Store Thick Sliced Bacon?

To keep your thick sliced bacon fresh and delicious, it's important to store it properly.

• Store unopened packages of bacon in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
• Avoid freezing bacon, as this can cause changes in texture and flavor.
• Once opened, use bacon within 7 days or freeze it for up to 1 month.
• Wrap bacon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air exposure and drying out.

By storing your thick sliced bacon properly, you can ensure that it stays fresh and tasty for longer.

Thick Sliced Bacon vs Regular Bacon

While thick sliced bacon and regular bacon are similar in many ways, there are some key differences to be aware of.

• Thick sliced bacon is sliced thicker than regular bacon, resulting in a meatier texture.
• Thick sliced bacon may have a slightly different nutritional profile than regular bacon, depending on the brand and preparation method.
• Thick sliced bacon may take longer to cook than regular bacon due to its thickness.
• Some people prefer the taste and texture of thick sliced bacon over regular bacon.

Ultimately, the choice between thick sliced bacon and regular bacon comes down to personal preference and recipe requirements.

Buying Guide for Thick Sliced Bacon

When shopping for thick sliced bacon, keep these tips in mind:

• Look for brands that use high-quality pork and natural ingredients.
• Check the label for nutrition information, and take note of the sodium and saturated fat content.
• Consider the thickness of the bacon and how it will affect your desired recipe.
• If possible, sample a few different brands and varieties to find your favorite.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you're getting the best quality and flavor out of your thick sliced bacon.