Across many cultures and cuisines, bacon is one of the most beloved foods. For centuries, people have used this savory and salty pork product as a mainstay for breakfast, adding it to a variety of dishes such as pizza, salads, and sandwiches. But let's find out: what is bacon exactly, and how is it made?

A Synopsis of Bacon's History. Pork belly curing has been done for thousands of years, though the exact origins of bacon are unknown. As early as 1500 BC, the Chinese were curing their pig bellies, and the Romans contributed to the expansion of bacon production throughout Europe. One of the first meats that European settlers carried to the Americas was bacon, which rose to popularity in England in the 1500s.

There are several Germanic and French dialects that give rise to the term "bacon.". Eventually, the Old High German word "bakkon" became the English word "bacoun.". It is evident that bacon has long been a global favorite!

What Makes Bacon: The foundation of traditional bacon is the fatty underbelly of the pig, known as the pork belly, which contains a mottled mixture of fat and meat. The back, side, or pork loin are the sources of additional bacon cuts. Instead of using pork, turkey or chicken bacon is made from cuts of birds.

Nitrates, nitrites, salt, and occasionally sugar or maple syrup are used to cure, preserve, and flavor pork belly. Then, it is gently smoked over low heat for several days over a wood fire. This cooks the bacon and adds enticing smoky notes. At last, it's cut into slices and wrapped up for all of our bacon-love!

Bacon types. Not all bacons are made equal! Here are a few of the most popular types: Streaky bacon: Made from pork belly with long fat veins. Most "American-style" bacon is like this one.

The bacon from the back of the pig is called back bacon. Compared to streaky bacon, it's leaner.

Lean pork loin is also the source of Canadian bacon. Pre-sliced is how it is usually sold.

Instead of using pork, turkey meat is used to make turkey bacon. There's a faint flavor of turkey.

Prosciutto is very thinly sliced dry-cured ham prepared in the Italian style. Italian bacon without smoke, or pancetta, is used as a seasoning. The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Bacon. While cooking bacon might seem easy, there are a few tricks and tips you can use to get the best results. Pan-frying is a classic method that lets you cook bacon to the exact crispiness you want. Place the strips in a cold pan and cook them over medium heat, stirring from time to time.

Arrange the strips on a baking sheet covered with foil and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for ten to twenty minutes. Less spatter! Microwave: Fast, but may cause uneven cooking. In 30-second intervals, place the strips between paper towels and the microwave.

Place cooked bacon on paper towels to drain. Interesting Ways to Eat Bacon: Reserve the tasty drippings for cooking. Owing to its versatility, bacon is a favorite in burgers and sandwiches (from cheeseburgers to BLTs), breakfast dishes (bacon and eggs, pancakes, you name it), and home fries. Brussels sprouts and salads: Bacon bits add flavor to vegetables. Bacon makes the ideal topping for pizza and baked potatoes. Desserts: I'm all for maple bacon on donuts or cupcakes! Candied bacon is bacon that's roasted and coated in maple or brown sugar for a delicious combination of sweetness and salt. You should always consume bacon in moderation. It has a high sodium and saturated fat content, which can be harmful if ingested in excess. Certain cancers have also been connected to the nitrates used to cure bacon.

However, bacon also contains zinc, B vitamins, and protein. Select center-cut bacon for less fat, or look for uncured or turkey bacon to lower nitrates. As part of a balanced diet, enjoy bacon in moderation and lots of vegetables.

Clearly, we have a special place in our hearts and on our plates for bacon. You can select your favorite method of consuming this famous dish by being aware of how it's prepared and the various varieties. For your own health, just be aware of servings. So feel free to reward yourself with a mouthwatering bacon breakfast!