Make it sweet
If you enjoy distinctive flavor pairings, you’re likely familiar with the delightful combination of maple syrup and bacon. The savory taste of bacon beautifully balances the sweetness of maple, and both ingredients carry a subtle smokiness that enhances the experience. To recreate this delicious treat at home, simply brush some maple syrup onto the bacon before baking it in the oven.
For an added touch of sweetness, stir in a spoonful of light brown sugar into the syrup. As it cooks, the sugar will caramelize, giving you an extra crispy texture. Many refer to this as "candied bacon," which is quite fitting. To further elevate your candied bacon, consider adding crushed walnuts for a delightful crunch. If maple syrup isn’t your preference, you can also try coating the bacon with honey or a layer of fruit jam.
Make it savory
On the opposite end of the flavor spectrum, you can delve into bacon's savory dimension by incorporating seasonings such as garlic powder and sesame seeds. These robust flavors harmonize beautifully with bacon, enhancing its indulgence. By experimenting with various herbs and spices, you can even create bacon inspired by diverse global cuisines. For instance, brushing bacon with a mixture of sesame oil, ground ginger, and a dash of chili flakes will impart a Korean flair. Alternatively, you can embrace Mediterranean flavors with dried basil, thyme, and oregano.
When selecting spices to enhance your bacon, it's best to avoid those that are salt-based (like garlic salt or seasoned salt blends). Bacon is already quite salty, and adding more could disrupt the flavor balance. However, a light dusting of parmesan creates a delightful coating that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Give it some heat
For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their snacks, bacon is an ideal canvas for all your spicy cravings. A sprinkle of black pepper can significantly elevate your dish, provided you steer clear of common pitfalls that can spoil bacon. Glazes such as sriracha or chipotle sauce create a fantastic fiery foundation for bacon, and you can intensify the heat by adding as much chili powder or cayenne as you desire.
The richness of a thick-cut slice of bacon beautifully balances the spice. You can also enhance the flavor profile for a more complete meal by incorporating additional spices like cumin and paprika. Spicy bacon is a simple way to add a kick to dishes like BLTs and tuna salad.
Mix it with chocolate
Bacon and chocolate: You might assume that these culinary giants are too formidable to combine seamlessly, but thankfully, that's not the case at all. Much like preparing candied bacon, simply coat each slice of bacon generously with cocoa powder before placing it in the oven (just be sure to use the sweetened variety).
To enhance the flavors of both the chocolate and the bacon even further, consider blending cocoa powder, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a touch of espresso powder. Chocolate-infused bacon is sure to be a hit with everyone, so before you dive in, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the best methods for cooking multiple strips of bacon at once.
Play with sour flavors
One flavor category you shouldn't miss while experimenting with bacon seasonings is sour notes, such as citrus or balsamic vinegar. These tangy ingredients balance the richness of bacon, creating a more captivating taste experience. A simple way to introduce some zest to your bacon is by preparing a quick glaze: just heat the juice of two oranges with a spoonful of honey on the stove for eight minutes, then use this mixture to coat the bacon.
Once you have a solid understanding of how different flavors complement bacon, you can start to get really inventive with your pairings. Combine hot sauce and honey for a sweet glaze with a kick, or sprinkle some chili flakes into your cocoa powder for an exciting flavor twist. The nuttiness of sesame pairs beautifully with honey, and a dash of black pepper can enhance the sweetness of brown sugar. Essentially, everything tastes amazing when drizzled over delicious bacon.
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