Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that has been enjoyed for centuries. From thin and crispy to thick and hearty, there are endless options when it comes to this delicious cured meat.
One type of bacon that you may have heard of is platter sliced bacon. But what exactly is it?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of platter sliced bacon and everything you need to know about this mouth-watering breakfast treat.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about platter sliced bacon!
What Is Platter Sliced Bacon?
Platter sliced bacon is a type of bacon that is commonly found in restaurants, diners, and hotels. It is sliced very thin, usually around 1/32″ thick, and is often served as part of a breakfast platter or sandwich.
Unlike regular sliced bacon, which is typically sliced into 1/16″ pieces and found in grocery stores or residential kitchens, platter sliced bacon is much thinner and crisps up quickly when cooked. This makes it a popular choice for restaurants and diners that need to serve large quantities of bacon quickly.
Platter sliced bacon is also different from thick sliced bacon, which is around 1/8″ thick and is better suited for making sandwiches or adding to pasta dishes. While thick sliced bacon may not have the same crunchiness as thinner options, it does offer a heartier texture that some people prefer.
How Is Platter Sliced Bacon Different From Other Types Of Bacon?
Platter sliced bacon is different from other types of bacon in terms of its thickness. It is much thinner than regular sliced bacon and thicker than restaurant bacon. This makes it a unique option for those who prefer a crispier texture without sacrificing too much thickness.
Additionally, platter sliced bacon is commonly found in restaurants, diners, and hotels, whereas other types of bacon may be more commonly found in grocery stores or sold for home use. This makes it a popular choice for those who want to recreate the taste of restaurant-style breakfast platters at home.
The History Of Platter Sliced Bacon
The history of platter sliced bacon can be traced back to the early days of the restaurant industry. As restaurants and diners began to gain popularity in the early 20th century, there was a growing demand for quick and easy breakfast options that could be served to large groups of people.
Platter sliced bacon was the perfect solution. By slicing the bacon very thin, it could be cooked quickly and served in large quantities, making it a popular choice for breakfast platters and sandwiches.
Over time, platter sliced bacon became a staple in many restaurants and diners across the country. Today, it remains a popular choice for breakfast menus and is often served alongside eggs, toast, and other classic breakfast items.
Despite its popularity, platter sliced bacon has also faced some criticism over the years. Some argue that the thin slices are too flimsy and lack the meaty texture of thicker cuts. Others have raised concerns about the high fat content of bacon in general.
Despite these criticisms, platter sliced bacon remains a beloved breakfast food for many people. Whether you prefer it thin and crispy or thick and hearty, there’s no denying the appeal of this classic breakfast staple.
How To Cook Platter Sliced Bacon
Cooking platter sliced bacon is a simple process that requires only a few steps. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Next, line a rimmed sheet pan with foil or parchment paper and arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the pan.
Once the oven is completely preheated, slide the baking sheet into the oven and let the bacon cook without turning until the fat begins to render, which should take around 5 to 6 minutes. After this, rotate the baking sheet and continue cooking until the bacon is crisp and brown. For platter sliced bacon, this should take around 5 to 6 minutes.
If you’re cooking more than one sheet of bacon at the same time, make sure to swap their oven positions about halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. Once the bacon is cooked to your desired crispness, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate or brown paper sack to drain.
Serving Suggestions For Platter Sliced Bacon
If you’re looking to serve platter sliced bacon, there are a variety of ways to incorporate it into your meal. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
1. Breakfast platter: As previously mentioned, platter sliced bacon is a popular choice for breakfast platters. Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns, and toast for a classic breakfast meal.
2. BLT sandwich: Platter sliced bacon is thin enough to add to a sandwich without overwhelming the other ingredients. Try making a classic BLT sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a delicious lunch option.
3. Salad topping: Crumble up some crispy platter sliced bacon and sprinkle it on top of your favorite salad for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
4. Bacon-wrapped appetizers: Use platter sliced bacon to wrap around appetizers like asparagus spears, dates, or shrimp for a tasty and easy-to-eat appetizer.
5. Bacon-wrapped meatloaf: Take your meatloaf game to the next level by wrapping it in platter sliced bacon before baking. The bacon will add an extra layer of flavor and crunchiness to the dish.
No matter how you choose to serve it, platter sliced bacon is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add flavor and texture to any meal.
Health Benefits And Nutritional Information Of Platter Sliced Bacon
While platter sliced bacon may be a tasty addition to breakfast or sandwiches, it is important to consider its nutritional value and potential health benefits.
One serving of three slices of platter sliced bacon, or 34.5 grams, contains 161 calories. Of those calories, 108 come from fat, 2.4 come from carbs, and 48 come from protein. While bacon is often associated with being high in fat and calories, it can also be a good source of protein.
Bacon also contains important nutrients such as vitamin B12, which is essential for healthy nerve function and the production of red blood cells. It also contains niacin, which helps to maintain healthy skin and supports the digestive system.
However, it is important to note that bacon is also high in sodium and saturated fat, which can contribute to health issues such as high blood pressure and heart disease. It is recommended to consume bacon in moderation and to balance it with other healthy food choices.
