April 24, 2015

by Jason Ford
Ford on Food

Bacon is the main reason why I’ve never become a vegetarian.

I think bacon is one of the most extraordinarily delicious foods known to humankind.

Although I’d agree that bacon goes with just about everything, I wouldn’t recommend eating it to excess as it contains a large amount of sodium and fat.

Bacon is made from various cuts of pork (generally the belly) which is cured in a liquid brine or dry salt packed.

Then it is commonly infused and showered with liquid smoke, then baked.

The more traditional bacon is cooked in a smoking oven or boiled.

Bacon is often firmed up by refrigeration for various periods of time, so it can be thinly sliced into rashers before packaging.

Mass-produced bacon is often heavily processed and contains considerable amounts of artificial flavourings and preservatives. such as sodium nitrite.

For a more traditional and less processed version of bacon, it pays to know your local butcher, many of whom will produce their own home-made bacon.

There are also many boutique smokehouses that specialise in niche charcuterie products, such as richly double or triple smoked bacon.

Some of the best smoked bacon rashers I ever had was bacon produced by the local butcher.

Typically, the consumer will cook the bacon rashes before eating it. It can be fried, grilled, baked or boiled and adds a delicious savoury flavour profile when used as an ingredient in recipes, such as soups.

So if you’re not a vegetarian, see what your local butcher has on offer and bring home the bacon!

* * *

Easy Carbonara

Ingredients:

  • 500g pasta
  • 100g chopped ham
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp cream
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Method:

  1. Cook the ham in a fry pan until crisp; remove from pan and drain on paper towels; set the ham aside
  2. Cook the pasta as directed on package
  3. Meanwhile, combine the egg yolks, cream, and garlic in a medium bowl and beat until well blended
  4. When the pasta is cooked, drain and immediately return to the pot
  5. Stir in the egg mixture and toss thoroughly until combined
  6. Add the bacon and cheese and toss again to coat; season if required

Serves 4.


 

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