Crispy, smoky, and tender, bacon is undoubtedly one of the most loved foods around the globe. As a matter of fact, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the savory aroma of bacon wafting through the house. Whether paired with waffles, pancakes, bagels, eggs, sausages, or mixed into pasta, stews, and more, one thing is certain: it brings happiness to just about anyone’s face. Many people cook bacon via frying or baking. Although there is nothing wrong with cooking it this way, there is definitely depth and dimension when these fatty pieces are cooked on the grill. Apart from getting a slightly crusted exterior, grilled bacon also brims with smokiness. For those who want this extra flavor and those who simply want to veer from the mess, cooking bacon on the grill might be a great idea to explore.
What Is Bacon? What Is It Made Of?
Most recognize bacon when they see it. However, many do not know that the term bacon specifically refers to the fatty cut taken next to the spare ribs. Thinly sliced, these are either cured or smoked to lend more flavor. There are different types of bacon, although the most common comes from pork. The side bacon found in the United States has relatively long layers of fat running through the rind. Meanwhile, back bacon found in the United Kingdom comes from the loin. This is less fatty and tends to err on the leaner side, similar to ham. While pork is the most famous variety of bacon, it also comes in different variants such as turkey. This is a leaner meat. Meanwhile, pancetta, a type of uncured Italian bacon, bears similarities to regular bacon. However, pancetta is made from pork belly, and instead of strips, it comes in the diced form. Low-sodium, low-fat, lean, honey-cured, and smoked bacon are all available. When cooked, bacon tastes salty and rich. In general, however, its flavor profile is a combination of sweet, salty, fatty, and smoky.
How to Cook Bacon on the Grill
There are many you can go about cooking bacon on the grill. Let’s take a closer look at these different cooking options to find one that suits your fancy.
Directly on the Grill
For those who want a simple, no-frills approach, start by laying out the bacon strips over the grill. In a few minutes, they will start crisping up, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled. This method can easily burn the bacon and ruin its flavor. Another method you can try is heating the grill first and once it’s hot, turn it off and lay your bacon strips on it. You’ll still hear that sizzle, but you won’t have to contend with burnt marks or ends. Instead, you’ll be left with lovely grill marks.
Cooking with Aluminum Foil
Since bacon renders a lot of fat, this can pose a safety hazard when cooking, especially when placed over an open flame. What’s more, it can be quite tedious to clean up afterward. One no-fuss way of cooking uses a piece of aluminum foil larger than the amount of bacon you’ll be cooking. Fold it in half to create a stable cooking surface. This will serve as a pan of sorts that will shield the bacon from direct heat. Not to mention, it will also catch the juices and make for an easier cleanup afterward.
Cooking with a Cast-Iron Skilled
Last but certainly not least is cooking bacon with the help of a cast-iron skillet. What makes this method highly recommended among the rest is the skillet provides even heating throughout, ensuring your precious fatty pork strips will cook to perfection. To use this method, start by preheating your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place your cast-iron skill on the grates to allow it to heat evenly as well. Once the pan is hot, place all the strips in the skillet and allow them to cook for around seven to 10 minutes with the grilled closed depending on your preference and its thickness. Then, open the grill and cook until crispy. Transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate and allow the excess grease to absorb. Serve with your sides and voila. A grilled bacon masterpiece in all of its glory.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know how to properly cook bacon on the grill, you can finally elevate your breakfasts and your bacon-based meals into something even more extraordinary. With these tips, you can master cooking bacon on the grill in no time.
Craving some crisp grilled bacon on a laid-back weekend? Follow the steps below to quickly learn how to cook bacon on the grill perfectly!
