Bacon lardons are a versatile ingredient that can add flavor to a variety of dishes, from salads to stews. But what if you have a block of frozen bacon lardons and need to use them in a hurry?
Can you cook them straight from the freezer?
The answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook bacon lardons from frozen and share some tips for separating and storing them.
So grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
Can You Cook Bacon Lardons From Frozen?
Cooking bacon lardons from frozen is possible, but it requires a bit of extra time and effort. The key is to separate the lardons before cooking them.
If your bacon lardons are stuck together in a block, you’ll need to carefully slice them horizontally with a sharp knife. This will allow you to separate the little slices into lardons as they thaw and cook up perfectly.
Alternatively, you can heat the bacon on low to help loosen up the block and break it into smaller pieces. Once the pieces are separated, you can start cooking them using your preferred method.
It’s important to note that frozen bacon lardons will take slightly longer to cook than thawed ones. Give them a little extra time while cooking to ensure they’re fully cooked through before serving.
Why Cook Bacon Lardons From Frozen?
Cooking bacon lardons from frozen can be a convenient option for those who want to quickly add bacon to a dish without having to wait for it to thaw. By keeping a block of bacon in the freezer, you can easily cut off a few slices and cook them up whenever you need them.
Additionally, cooking bacon lardons from frozen can result in evenly cooked bacon that retains its shape and texture. When bacon is thawed before cooking, it can sometimes become limp or unevenly cooked if not carefully monitored.
Preparing Frozen Bacon Lardons For Cooking
If you have a block of frozen bacon, you can prepare lardons for cooking by using a sharp knife to carefully slice the bacon horizontally into thin little slices. As the slices thaw, they will separate into lardons that can be cooked up perfectly.
Another way to prepare frozen bacon lardons is to heat the block on low until it loosens up and breaks into smaller pieces. Once the pieces are separated, you can start cooking them.
It’s important to note that frozen bacon lardons will take slightly longer to cook than thawed ones. Give them a little extra time while cooking to ensure they’re fully cooked through before serving.
If you want to store cooked lardons, tightly wrap them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a cool section of the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month by spreading them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freezing them, then transferring them to a freezer bag. To reheat lardons, spread them in a large skillet and cook over medium heat until hot, about 5 minutes.
Cooking Frozen Bacon Lardons On The Stove
Cooking frozen bacon lardons on the stove is a great option if you want crispy, evenly cooked bacon. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start by separating the lardons if they’re stuck together in a block. You can do this by carefully slicing them horizontally with a sharp knife.
2. Heat up a nonstick, stainless steel, or cast iron frying pan on medium heat. Make sure none of the lardons are overlapping.
3. Lay out the separated lardons in the pan and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them midway through cooking.
4. Keep an eye on the lardons as they cook and adjust the heat as necessary to prevent them from burning.
5. Once the lardons are fully cooked and crispy, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
Cooking frozen bacon lardons on the stove is a quick and easy way to get delicious bacon for your dishes. Just remember to give them extra time to cook through and enjoy!
Cooking Frozen Bacon Lardons In The Oven
If you prefer to cook your bacon lardons in the oven, it’s still possible to do so from frozen. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Carefully separate your frozen bacon lardons into individual pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overlapping. If you prefer, you can also season the lardons with your favorite spices or herbs at this point.
Bake the bacon lardons for 15-20 minutes, depending on their thickness and how crispy you like them. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Once the bacon lardons are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can use them as a topping for salads, soups, or stews, or simply enjoy them as a snack.
Tips For Separating And Storing Frozen Bacon Lardons
If you plan on freezing bacon lardons, it’s important to separate them before storing them in the freezer. Here are some tips to help you separate and store frozen bacon lardons:
1. Cut the bacon into lardons before freezing: If you plan on using the bacon lardons for a specific recipe, it’s best to cut them into small pieces before freezing. This will make it easier to separate them when you’re ready to cook.
2. Freeze the lardons in a single layer: Lay the bacon lardons out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent them from sticking together when stored in a container or bag.
3. Store the lardons in an airtight container or bag: Once the lardons are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label and date the container or bag: It’s important to label and date the container or bag so you know when the bacon was frozen. Frozen bacon can last up to six months in the freezer, but it’s best to use it within three months for optimal flavor and texture.
By following these tips, you can easily separate and store frozen bacon lardons for future use. Just remember to thaw them properly before cooking and adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Cook Bacon Lardons From Frozen!
In conclusion, cooking bacon lardons from frozen is definitely possible, and it’s a great way to save time in the kitchen. Whether you’re adding them to a salad, a bake, a casserole, or a quiche, frozen bacon lardons can be cooked quickly and easily.
To cook frozen bacon lardons, you’ll need to separate them first. You can do this by carefully slicing the frozen block with a sharp knife or by heating the bacon on low to help loosen it up and break it into smaller pieces.
Once the lardons are separated, you can cook them using your preferred method. Just keep in mind that they will take slightly longer to cook than thawed lardons, so give them a little extra time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
