master-cooks | The Cleanest Way To Store Raw Bacon Is Also The Best

Storing raw bacon properly is crucial to maintaining its freshness and preventing spoilage. The best way to store bacon is by keeping it in its original packaging if unopened. However, once opened, it's important to transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents exposure to air, which can cause the bacon to dry out and become rancid. For added protection, consider placing the wrapped bacon in a resealable plastic bag. It's essential to place the bacon in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back of the bottom shelf, to ensure it stays at a consistent temperature. If you need to store bacon for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Before freezing, divide the bacon into smaller portions and wrap each portion individually to make it easier to defrost only what you need. Bacon can be frozen for up to a month without losing its quality. When you're ready to use it, thaw the bacon in the refrigerator rather than on the counter to avoid bacterial growth. By following these steps, you can ensure that your bacon remains fresh and delicious until you're ready to enjoy it.

Use parchment paper to store bacon

Begin by laying a sheet of parchment paper (approximately a foot long) flat on your countertop. Then, arrange the strips of bacon vertically on the parchment, ensuring there’s at least an inch of space between each piece. Once the paper is filled, carefully roll it up from the bottom. This may require some practice, so you might want to start with fewer strips of bacon. The goal is to create a roll that is tight enough to hold the bacon in place without tearing the paper. After achieving this, use scissors to cut through the spaces between the bacon strips. You’ll end up with individually wrapped bacon pieces that can be stored in a zip-top bag or a plastic container in the refrigerator.

This method allows you to quickly grab a few bacon strips for cooking without getting your hands messy with bacon grease. Plus, since the bacon is already on parchment paper, you won’t need to use additional paper or foil for cooking. According to the USDA, once removed from the package, the bacon should remain fresh in the fridge for about a week. Just be sure to cook your bacon using the best technique to fully enjoy this delicious staple.

The Cleanest Way To Store Raw Bacon Is Also The Best

Use parchment paper to store bacon

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