If you are a bacon lover, you must try hardwood smoked sliced bacon. 3 slices (15g) of this delicious bacon contain only 80 calories, making it a great addition to your breakfast or sandwich. But there's more to this bacon than just its calorie count.
Hardwood smoked sliced bacon is a type of bacon that is smoked using hardwood chips to give it a more complex and rich flavor. It is also popular for its crispy texture and ease of use, as it comes pre-sliced and easy to cook.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of hardwood smoked sliced bacon, how to cook it, and some tips for choosing and storing it.
What is Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon?
Hardwood smoked sliced bacon is a type of bacon that is smoked using hardwood chips. Hardwood chips are made from different types of wood like oak, hickory, or applewood, which give the bacon a rich, smoky flavor. This bacon is cut into thin slices so it is easy to cook and convenient to use in any recipe. And unlike other types of bacon, it is less greasy and has a crispy texture that is a perfect addition to your breakfast sandwich, salad or burger.
Calories per Serving of Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
3 slices (15g) of hardwood smoked sliced bacon contain only 80 calories, making it a great addition to your breakfast or snack. Hardwood smoked sliced bacon is a great source of protein and can help you stay full for longer periods. The fat content is relatively low, making it a healthier option than other types of bacon.
Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon: Fat Content
3 slices (15g) of hardwood smoked sliced bacon contain 6 grams of fat, which is relatively low compared to other types of bacon. However, it is still important to consume bacon in moderation as it is high in saturated fats. Saturated fats can lead to high cholesterol levels which can have negative effects on the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Nutritional Benefits of Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
Hardwood smoked sliced bacon is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. It also contains vitamin B12, which is important for maintaining healthy nerve and blood cells. Additionally, hardwood smoked sliced bacon contains iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the body. However, it is important to consume bacon in moderation as it is high in sodium and saturated fats, which can have negative effects on your health.
How to Cook Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
Hardwood smoked sliced bacon is easy to cook and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are some tips for cooking hardwood smoked sliced bacon:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the bacon on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
Hardwood smoked sliced bacon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Add to your breakfast sandwiches
- Crumble on top of your salad
- Use as a topping for your pizza
- Add to your burger or hot dog
Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon versus Other Bacon Types
Hardwood smoked sliced bacon differs from other types of bacon in several ways. Firstly, it is smoked using hardwood chips which gives it a more complex and rich flavor. It also has a crispy texture, making it perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, pizzas and burgers. And compared to other types of bacon, it has relatively low-fat content. On the other hand, other types of bacon like Canadian bacon, turkey bacon, or regular bacon differ in taste, texture, and nutritional benefits. While Canadian bacon comes from the loin of the pig and is much leaner, turkey bacon is made from ground turkey and has less fat and lower calories. Regular bacon is made from pork belly and has a higher calorie and fat content.
Tips for Choosing and Storing Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
When it comes to choosing and storing hardwood smoked sliced bacon, here are some tips to follow:
- Choose the bacon with the furthest expiration date to ensure freshness
- Keep the bacon refrigerated at 40°F or below
- Store the bacon in its original packaging until use
- Freeze any unused bacon in a freezer bag or container for up to 6 months.
Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon and Heart Health
Although hardwood smoked sliced bacon has a lower fat content than other types of bacon, it is important to consume it in moderation as it is still high in saturated fats. Saturated fats are known to increase cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended to limit your intake of saturated fats to less than 10% of your daily calorie intake. However, incorporating hardwood smoked sliced bacon in a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can be part of a balanced diet.
Risks and Side Effects of Consuming Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
Although hardwood smoked sliced bacon has some health benefits, it is still high in sodium and saturated fats, which can have negative effects on your health if consumed in excess. Excess consumption of sodium can lead to high blood pressure, while saturated fats can increase your cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended to consume bacon in moderation and to choose other protein sources that are lower in sodium and saturated fats, such as lean meats, poultry, fish, tofu, beans, and legumes.
5 FAQ about Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon
1. How many calories are in 3 slices of Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon?
There are 80 calories in 3 slices (15 g) of Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon.
2. Is Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon a healthy option?
While bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium, it can still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon is a flavorful option that can add taste to dishes, but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.
3. How is Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon made?
Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon is typically made by curing pork belly in a mixture of salt, sugar, and other flavorings. The bacon is then smoked over hardwood chips, giving it a rich, smoky flavor.
4. Can Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon be cooked in the microwave?
Yes, Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon can be cooked in the microwave, but it's recommended to cook it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Cook time will vary based on the wattage of your microwave.
5. What are some tasty dishes I can make with Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon?
Hardwood Smoked Sliced Bacon is a versatile ingredient that can add delicious flavor to a variety of dishes. Some tasty options include bacon-wrapped chicken or pork, bacon-topped salads, bacon-stuffed mushrooms, or bacon-wrapped asparagus.