Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you like it crispy or chewy, there’s no denying the deliciousness of this salty treat.
But have you ever heard of washing your bacon before cooking it? Some people swear by this trick to reduce shrinkage and increase crispiness, while others argue that it can affect the flavor.
So, what’s the truth?
In this article, we’ll explore the debate and provide some insights into whether or not you should be washing your bacon before cooking.
Let’s dive in!
Do You Wash Bacon Before Cooking?
The answer to this question is a bit complicated. While some people claim that washing bacon with cold water before cooking can prevent it from shrinking and increase its crispiness, others argue that it can affect the flavor and texture of the meat.
One argument against washing bacon is that the salt used to cure it is impregnated into the meat and not on the surface. Therefore, washing it in water before or during cooking will not remove substantial amounts of the salt.
However, some sources suggest that rinsing bacon with cold water can remove a little bit of the fat from the meat, which can help reduce shrinkage. Additionally, baking bacon in the oven instead of frying it in a pan can also reduce shrinkage and increase crispiness.
It’s worth noting that washing bacon can also affect its flavor. Some people claim that rinsing bacon can lead to lessening its flavor, while others argue that it doesn’t make a significant difference.
Ultimately, whether or not you should wash your bacon before cooking is a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking to reduce shrinkage and increase crispiness, baking your bacon in the oven may be a better option than washing it with cold water.
The Argument For Washing Bacon Before Cooking
Some people argue that washing bacon with cold water before cooking can prevent it from shrinking and increase its crispiness. This is because rinsing the bacon can remove some of the fat from the meat, which is one of the primary reasons why bacon shrinks when cooked. By removing some of the fat, the bacon may retain its shape and size better during cooking.
Furthermore, washing bacon can also help remove any impurities or bacteria that may be present on the surface of the meat. While bacon is generally safe to eat, rinsing it before cooking can provide an extra layer of protection against foodborne illnesses.
However, it’s important to note that washing bacon can also affect its flavor and texture. Some people claim that rinsing bacon can make it taste less flavorful or cause it to become tough and chewy. Additionally, washing bacon can also remove any seasonings or rubs that may have been added to the meat, resulting in a less flavorful end product.
The Argument Against Washing Bacon Before Cooking
Those who argue against washing bacon before cooking claim that it can affect the flavor and texture of the meat. The salt used to cure bacon is impregnated into the meat, and washing it in water before or during cooking will not remove substantial amounts of the salt. Additionally, rinsing bacon with cold water can also remove some of the fat from the meat, which can affect its flavor and texture.
Furthermore, washing bacon with cold water can also make it wetter, leading to less crispy results when cooked. The water used for rinsing is typically warmer than the cold bacon taken out of the fridge, which can also warm up the meat before cooking. This can lead to uneven cooking and a less enjoyable eating experience.
In contrast, those who advocate for washing bacon claim that it can reduce shrinkage and increase crispiness. However, there are other methods to achieve these results without affecting the flavor or texture of the meat. For example, baking bacon in the oven instead of frying it in a pan can reduce shrinkage and increase crispiness without any need for washing.
Does Washing Bacon Affect The Flavor?
While some people claim that washing bacon with cold water before cooking can help improve its flavor, others argue that it can actually have the opposite effect. The reason for this is that washing bacon can remove some of the natural oils and fats that give it its signature taste and texture. Additionally, washing bacon can also wash away any seasonings or rubs that may have been added to the meat before it was packaged.
It’s important to note that the impact of washing bacon on its flavor can vary depending on how it is cooked and the personal preferences of the individual. Some people may not notice a significant difference in flavor when washing their bacon, while others may find that it tastes less flavorful or bland.
Ultimately, the decision to wash bacon before cooking comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a crispier texture and are willing to sacrifice some of the natural oils and fats for this, then washing your bacon may be a good option. However, if you value the natural flavor and texture of your bacon, then skipping the wash and opting for alternative cooking methods like baking may be a better choice.
Does Washing Bacon Reduce Shrinkage?
There are conflicting opinions on whether washing bacon with cold water before cooking can reduce shrinkage. Some sources suggest that rinsing bacon can remove a little bit of the fat from the meat, which can help reduce shrinkage. However, others argue that the cold-water-rinse is less important than baking bacon in the oven and that rinsing bacon can often lead to lessening its flavor.
It’s worth noting that bacon shrinks when cooking due to fat in the bacon rendering and water used to cure the bacon evaporating. Running cold water on bacon before cooking may actually make it wetter and wash off any delicious seasonings or rubs that were added. Additionally, if you follow safe food storage practices, your bacon is already cold from being stored in the refrigerator. Running cold water on it after taking it out of the fridge might actually warm up the bacon, which could affect its texture.
How To Properly Wash Bacon Before Cooking
If you do decide to wash your bacon before cooking, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you’re doing it properly.
Firstly, it’s important to use cold water when rinsing the bacon. This is because hot water can cause the fat in the meat to melt, which can lead to more shrinkage when cooked.
Secondly, it’s important not to soak the bacon in water for too long. A quick rinse under running water is all that’s needed to remove any surface dirt or debris.
Finally, it’s important to pat the bacon dry with a paper towel after rinsing it. This will help remove any excess moisture from the meat, which can also contribute to shrinkage when cooked.
Other Tips For Perfectly Cooked Bacon
In addition to the debate about whether or not to wash bacon before cooking it, there are a few other tips and tricks for achieving perfectly cooked bacon.
One method is to pre-cook bacon and store it in the refrigerator for easy reheating in the morning. This can save time and reduce the mess of cooking bacon every morning.
Another method is to cook bacon in the oven instead of on the stovetop. This can help reduce shrinkage and increase crispiness, and also makes for easier clean-up. To do this, line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake the bacon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Using parchment paper can also make clean-up easier when cooking bacon on the stovetop. Simply line the pan with parchment paper before cooking, then pour out the grease into an oven-safe dish and let the pan cool before disposing of the parchment paper.
Regardless of your preferred method, it’s important to keep an eye on your bacon while it’s cooking to ensure that it doesn’t burn or become too crispy. With a little bit of experimentation, you can find the perfect method for achieving delicious, perfectly cooked bacon every time.
