Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that has been enjoyed for centuries. But have you ever heard the term “rasher of bacon” and wondered what it means?
Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the term and what it actually refers to.
From the Latin root meaning “to scrape or shave,” to the different ways bacon can be prepared and served, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this delicious breakfast treat.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about what a rasher of bacon really is.
What’s A Rasher Of Bacon?
A rasher of bacon is simply a thin slice of bacon. The term can also apply to ham, meaning a thin slice of ham. It’s believed that the word “rasher” comes from the Latin root “rado, rasi, rasum, radere,” which means to scrape, shave or scratch. This makes sense as a rasher of bacon is essentially a thin slice scraped or shaved off a larger piece of bacon.
Historically, bacon was heavily spiced and salted to ensure it would keep for longer periods of time. Today, bacon is more mildly treated for flavor rather than shelf life. After the bacon is trimmed, it can be smoked or cured in brine to infuse it with flavor.
Rashers are commonly included in breakfast in some regions of the world, where eggs and bacon prove to be perennial breakfast favorites. They can be prepared and served in a variety of ways, such as pan-frying until crispy or cooking until soft and chewy. Some people even use rashers to wrap things for roasting, ranging from squash to fish.
The serving size of rashers varies depending on the size of the original cut of bacon and the level of fatty streaking in the rashers. Often, three to four rashers are sufficient, especially when paired with eggs, toast, and other breakfast items.
The Origins Of The Term Rasher
The origins of the term “rasher” are not entirely clear, but there are some interesting theories. One possibility is that it comes from the Latin root “rado, rasi, rasum, radere,” which means to scrape, shave or scratch. This theory makes sense because a rasher of bacon is essentially a thin slice scraped or shaved off a larger piece of bacon.
Another theory suggests that the word “rasher” may have come from the French word “rache” or “rasche,” which referred to a skin eruption. This French noun, like the later verb “racher” (to scrape or scratch), ultimately comes from the Latin verb “rādere” (to scrape).
Interestingly, the word “rasher” has also been used in slang to refer to breakfast in general. For example, the phrase “a ride and a rasher” was used to describe sexual intercourse followed by breakfast. This usage of the term may have contributed to its popularity and widespread use.
Regardless of its origins, the term “rasher” has become synonymous with a thin slice of bacon or ham. It’s a common ingredient in breakfast dishes around the world and can be prepared and served in a variety of ways. Whether crispy or chewy, a rasher of bacon is a delicious addition to any meal.
How A Rasher Of Bacon Is Prepared
To prepare a rasher of bacon, there are several methods you can use. The most common methods include frying, dry frying, and grilling. To fry bacon, heat up a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan until it’s hot. Then, add the bacon and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side for streaky or back rashers, and 3-4 minutes on each side for steaks. Dry frying is a healthier method of frying where only the melted fat from the meat is used.
Most bacon today is cured through wet curing. Traditional curing ingredients like salt, sugar, sodium nitrite, and potentially other chemicals or seasonings are mixed to create a brine. The bacon is either placed in the brine to soak or, more commonly, is injected with the brine. After curing, the bacon can be smoked for enhanced flavor and preservation. Alternatively, it can be cooked in an oven or on a stovetop.
To cook bacon on a stovetop, bring it to room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Then, put it in a cold frying pan without overlapping the rashers. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning as necessary. To cook bacon in a microwave, line a microwave-safe plate with paper towel and lay the bacon on top without overlapping the rashers. Cook on high for about 5 minutes.
If you want to cook bacon in an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon on top. Put it in a cold oven then set the oven to 400 degrees F. Bake for about 30 minutes until done to your liking. Drain on paper towel.
Different Ways To Serve A Rasher Of Bacon
If you’re looking to switch up your bacon game, there are plenty of creative ways to serve a rasher of bacon. Here are some ideas:
1. Bacon-wrapped dates: Wrap pitted dates in rashers of bacon and bake until crispy for a sweet and savory appetizer.
2. Bacon-wrapped asparagus: Wrap asparagus spears in rashers of bacon and grill until crispy for a delicious side dish.
3. Bacon-wrapped chicken: Wrap chicken breasts in rashers of bacon and bake until crispy for a flavorful main dish.
4. Bacon-wrapped scallops: Wrap scallops in rashers of bacon and grill until crispy for a decadent appetizer.
5. Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers: Stuff jalapeño peppers with cream cheese, wrap in rashers of bacon, and bake until crispy for a spicy snack.
6. Bacon-wrapped shrimp: Wrap shrimp in rashers of bacon and grill until crispy for a surf-and-turf delight.
7. Bacon-wrapped meatloaf: Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings together, wrap in rashers of bacon, and bake until crispy for a hearty main dish.
8. Bacon-wrapped figs: Wrap figs in rashers of bacon and bake until crispy for a sweet and savory appetizer or dessert.
9. Bacon-wrapped pineapple: Wrap pineapple chunks in rashers of bacon and grill until crispy for a tropical twist on bacon.
10. Bacon-wrapped hot dogs: Wrap hot dogs in rashers of bacon and grill until crispy for a deliciously indulgent hot dog experience.
No matter how you choose to serve your rashers of bacon, be sure to savor the rich, salty flavor that makes it such a beloved breakfast staple around the world.
Health Benefits And Risks Of Eating Bacon
While bacon is a delicious breakfast staple, it’s important to be aware of its health benefits and risks. On the one hand, bacon contains healthy fats, including monounsaturated fatty acids and oleic acid, which is also found in olive oil. Additionally, bacon is a good source of protein and low in carbs, making it a suitable food for people on low-carb or keto diets.
However, bacon is also high in sodium and saturated fat, which can increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Diets high in processed meats like bacon have been linked to chronic health conditions like migraines, asthma, heart failure, kidney disease, and several types of cancer. A 2015 study by the World Health Organization found that every daily portion of processed meat raises colorectal cancer risk by 18%. The nitrates and nitrites used in the curing process of bacon are believed to be partially responsible for this link.
It’s important to note that even bacon labeled as “uncured” or “no nitrate or nitrite added” can still contain high levels of these potentially harmful chemicals. While bacon should be eaten in moderation, it can provide some essential micronutrients like potassium, selenium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.
Alternatives To Bacon For Breakfast Lovers
While bacon may be a breakfast staple for many, it’s important to consider alternatives for those who want to cut back on fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious alternatives that can still provide that salty, savory flavor.
One alternative is prosciutto, an Italian ham that is lower in fat and cholesterol than bacon but still contains the same amount of salt. It’s cured for about three years and is usually served uncooked in paper-thin shavings. Prosciutto can also be crumbled or made crispy like bacon to add a unique twist to your favorite dishes.
Another option is turkey bacon, which has fewer calories, fat, and sodium than traditional pork bacon. It also has a heartier texture and can add a nice contrast to hot eggs and toasted bread.
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, there are several vegan bacon substitutes available. These can be made from ingredients like tempeh, tofu, or seitan and can provide a similar smoky flavor to traditional bacon.
For those who prefer a cheesy flavor, cheese bacon may be the perfect alternative. This can be made by cooking thin slices of cheese until crispy and using them as a topping for eggs or sandwiches.
Other options include chopped ham, which is one-third of the price of bacon and can add a salty component to omelets or pasta dishes. And for those who want a truly unique alternative, there are even bacon-flavored gum and chips available on the market.
