If you are a bacon lover, you probably know that bacon is one of the most delicious meats out there. However, it is also known to be high in calories and fat. Just two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon have 90 calories, making it an indulgent treat. But how much fat and sodium does it contain, and are there any health benefits to it? Let's find out.
Two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 6 grams of fat, 330 milligrams of sodium, and 10 milligrams of cholesterol. On the bright side, it also provides 4 grams of protein, and has zero carbs.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value and health benefits of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon, as well as provide some cooking tips to enjoy it to the fullest.
Calories in Two Pan-Fried Slices
As mentioned earlier, two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 90 calories. While it may not seem like a lot, the high fat content makes it a calorie-dense food. To put it into perspective, one slice of bread has around 100 calories, which means that just four slices of bacon have the same amount of calories as two slices of bread. So, it is crucial to be mindful of portion sizes when it comes to bacon. One suggestion is to pair it with low-calorie foods like eggs, tomatoes, and spinach to make a well-rounded meal that won't break your calorie bank.
Fat Content in Two Pan-Fried Slices
Two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 6 grams of fat, which is considered a moderate amount. However, almost 70% of the calories in bacon come from fat, making it a food high in fat content. Saturated and trans fats are the types of fats that are considered unhealthy, and bacon has both of them. Specifically, two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 2 grams of saturated fat and no trans fat. While it is alright to enjoy bacon in moderation, it is necessary to limit high-fat foods in your diet and prioritize healthy fats like those found in nuts and fatty fish.
Sodium Content in Two Pan-Fried Slices
Two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 330 milligrams of sodium. Sodium is an essential nutrient that the body needs, but consuming too much can lead to health problems like high blood pressure. Most of the sodium in our diet comes from processed foods like bacon, so it is crucial to read food labels and choose low-sodium options whenever possible. One tip is to soak bacon slices in water for 30 minutes before cooking to reduce the sodium content by up to 30%.
Cholesterol Content in Two Pan-Fried Slices
Two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 10 milligrams of cholesterol, which is considered a low amount. However, cholesterol is a fatty substance that can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. It is recommended to limit cholesterol intake to less than 300 milligrams per day, so it is crucial to be mindful of other high-cholesterol foods in your diet. One way to reduce cholesterol intake while still enjoying bacon is to mix it with other high-protein foods like turkey or chicken breast slices.
Protein Content in Two Pan-Fried Slices
Two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon provide 4 grams of protein, which is considered a moderate amount. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as satiety. However, it is necessary to pair protein-rich foods with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to make a balanced meal. One recipe idea is to wrap bacon slices around asparagus spears and bake them in the oven for a high-protein and fiber-rich snack.
Carb Content in Two Pan-Fried Slices
Two pan-fried slices of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon have zero carbs, making it a keto-friendly food. It is essential to note that a diet consisting solely of bacon or other high-fat foods is not sustainable or recommended. Instead, try incorporating lean proteins like chicken and fish, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats like nuts and avocado into your diet. One recipe idea is to make a bacon and avocado salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a homemade vinaigrette for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Vitamins and Minerals in Two Pan-Fried Slices
While bacon is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, it does contain small amounts of essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is necessary for brain and nerve function, while zinc and selenium are involved in immune system function and cell growth and repair, respectively. However, it is necessary to obtain most vitamins and minerals from whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Ingredients in Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon
Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon is made from pork belly that has been cured with sea salt, maple syrup, celery powder, and brown sugar, and then smoked with applewood chips. Sea salt is a healthier alternative to traditional salt, while celery powder is used as a natural preservative. Maple syrup and brown sugar are added for flavor. It is necessary to read food labels and choose bacon that has no added preservatives or artificial flavors whenever possible.
Health Benefits of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon
While bacon is not considered a health food, there are some potential health benefits to it. For example, bacon is a good source of choline, a nutrient that is necessary for brain and nerve function, as well as fetal development during pregnancy. It also contains antioxidants like selenium and vitamin E, which help protect the body against oxidative stress. However, it is necessary to enjoy bacon in moderation and pair it with other nutrient-dense foods to reap its potential benefits.
Tips for Cooking Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon
There are many ways to enjoy Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon, but how you cook it can make a difference in its nutritional value and taste. One tip is to cook it in the oven instead of a pan. This allows the excess fat to drip off, resulting in a crispy and healthier version of bacon. Another tip is to use a paper towel or napkin to blot excess oil off after cooking.
Everything in moderation, including moderation.
5 FAQs About Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon
1. What is Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon?
Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon is a type of bacon made from pork belly that has been smoked with applewood chips. Unlike traditional bacon, it is uncured, meaning that it does not contain added nitrates or nitrites.
2. What is the nutritional content of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon?
Two pan-fried slices (20 g) of Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon contain 90 calories, 7 grams of fat, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of carbohydrates, 0 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein, and 220 milligrams of sodium.
3. How is Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon different from traditional bacon?
Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon is different from traditional bacon in several ways. It is uncured, meaning that it does not contain added nitrates or nitrites. It is also center-cut, which means that it comes from the leanest part of the pork belly. Additionally, it is smoked with applewood chips, which gives it a unique smoky flavor.
4. How can I cook Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon?
Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, baking, or grilling. To pan-fry, simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the bacon, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy. To bake, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, place the bacon on a baking sheet, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy. To grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, place the bacon on the grates, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
5. Is Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon a healthy food choice?
While Applewood Smoked Uncured Center Cut Bacon is lower in sodium and nitrates than traditional bacon, it is still a high-fat, high-calorie food. It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.