Can You Barbecue Bacon? The Ultimate Guide to Grilled Perfection
Yes, you absolutely can barbecue bacon! In fact, barbecuing bacon imparts a unique, smoky flavor that significantly elevates its taste and texture, resulting in a crispier and more flavorful outcome than traditional frying, provided you utilize the right techniques.
The Allure of Barbecued Bacon: Beyond the Fry Pan
Bacon is a breakfast staple and culinary chameleon, enhancing everything from burgers to desserts. While frying delivers a satisfactory result, barbecuing bacon unlocks a new dimension of flavor and texture. The smoky kiss from the grill, coupled with controlled heat, renders the fat beautifully, creating a bacon experience that’s hard to resist.
Benefits of Barbecuing Bacon
Why choose the barbecue over the frying pan? Here are a few compelling reasons:
- Smoky Flavor Infusion: The grill imparts a distinctive smoky flavor that cannot be replicated in a pan.
- Crispier Texture: The barbecue’s direct heat and airflow promote even cooking and superior crispness.
- Reduced Splatter: Grilling bacon significantly reduces grease splatter compared to frying.
- Outdoor Cooking: Enjoy the ambiance and convenience of cooking outdoors, especially during warmer months.
- Less Mess: Cleanup is often easier with a grill, as grease can be contained and disposed of more efficiently.
The Process: Grilling Bacon Like a Pro
Grilling bacon is simple, but a few key techniques can make a big difference. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-low heat (around 250-300°F or 120-150°C). For a gas grill, this means turning one or two burners to low. For a charcoal grill, distribute the coals evenly.
- Choose Your Bacon Wisely: Thicker-cut bacon generally holds up better on the grill, preventing it from crumbling or burning too quickly.
- Indirect Heat is Your Friend: If possible, create a zone of indirect heat on your grill. This allows the bacon to cook slowly and evenly, rendering the fat without burning. Place the bacon away from the direct flame.
- Grill with Precision: Place the bacon strips directly on the grill grates. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispness. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Manage Flare-Ups: Bacon fat can cause flare-ups. If this occurs, move the bacon to a cooler part of the grill or briefly close the lid to smother the flames.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the bacon from the grill and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced grillers can stumble when barbecuing bacon. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- High Heat: Grilling bacon at high heat will result in burnt bacon with undercooked fat.
- Ignoring Flare-Ups: Letting flare-ups run rampant will char the bacon and create an unpleasant taste.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Overcrowding the grill hinders even cooking and can lead to sticking.
- Neglecting Indirect Heat: Without indirect heat, the bacon is more likely to burn before rendering properly.
- Failing to Drain: Skipping the draining step leaves you with greasy, less enjoyable bacon.
Types of Bacon Best Suited for Barbecuing
Different types of bacon react differently on the grill. Here’s a breakdown:
| Type of Bacon | Characteristics | Grilling Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cut | Moderate thickness, readily available | Good | Requires close monitoring to prevent burning. |
| Thick-Cut | Increased thickness, richer flavor | Excellent | Holds up well to grilling, renders evenly. |
| Applewood Smoked | Sweet and smoky flavor profile | Excellent | Adds a complex flavor dimension when grilled. |
| Peppered | Coated with black pepper | Good | Adds a spicy kick; watch for pepper burning. |
| Turkey Bacon | Lower fat content | Moderate | Requires careful monitoring, as it can dry out easily. |
Grilling Bacon: Gas vs. Charcoal
Both gas and charcoal grills can be used to barbecue bacon, but they offer distinct advantages:
- Gas Grill: Offers precise temperature control and easy cleanup. Ideal for beginners and those seeking convenience.
- Charcoal Grill: Imparts a more intense smoky flavor. Requires more attention and skill to manage temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to barbecue bacon?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to barbecue bacon, provided you cook it to a safe internal temperature and handle it properly. Ensure the bacon reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to kill any potential bacteria. Practice safe food handling techniques, such as using separate utensils for raw and cooked bacon.
How do I prevent bacon from sticking to the grill?
To prevent sticking, ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the bacon on them. A high-heat cooking oil, like canola or avocado oil, is ideal. Also, avoid moving the bacon too soon after placing it on the grill; give it time to sear and release naturally. Don’t overcrowd the grill.
Can I use bacon grease to season my grill?
While bacon grease adds flavor, it’s not ideal for seasoning your grill. Bacon grease can become rancid quickly at high temperatures and might impart an unpleasant flavor to future grilling endeavors. Use dedicated grill seasoning oils instead.
What is the best temperature for grilling bacon?
The ideal temperature for grilling bacon is medium-low, around 250-300°F (120-150°C). This allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in crispy, flavorful bacon without burning.
How long does it take to barbecue bacon?
Grilling bacon typically takes between 2-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the bacon and the temperature of your grill. Keep a close eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I barbecue bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can barbecue bacon ahead of time and reheat it later. Store the cooked bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a microwave, oven, or skillet until warmed through. However, freshly grilled bacon is always best.
What are some creative ways to use barbecued bacon?
Barbecued bacon can be used in countless ways! Crumble it over salads, add it to sandwiches and burgers, wrap it around dates or scallops, or use it as a topping for pizzas and baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless! Consider wrapping it around jalapeno poppers before grilling.
Should I use direct or indirect heat when grilling bacon?
Indirect heat is generally preferable when grilling bacon. This allows the fat to render slowly without burning the bacon. If you’re using a gas grill, turn off one or two burners. If you’re using a charcoal grill, push the coals to one side.
Can I use sugar-cured bacon on the grill?
Yes, you can use sugar-cured bacon on the grill, but be extra careful to prevent burning. The sugar content will caramelize quickly, so monitor the bacon closely and use indirect heat. The resulting flavor is often worth the extra attention.
What’s the best way to clean my grill after grilling bacon?
After grilling bacon, use a grill brush to scrape off any remaining residue. For stubborn grease buildup, you can use a grill cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Ensure the grill is cool before cleaning.
Does grilling bacon impart a noticeable smoky flavor?
Yes, grilling bacon imparts a distinctly smoky flavor that you won’t get from frying. The intensity of the smoky flavor will depend on the type of grill you’re using and the type of wood chips you add (if using a charcoal or pellet grill).
What are the best wood chips to use for grilling bacon (if applicable)?
For a subtle smoky flavor, consider using applewood or pecan wood chips. For a more intense smoky flavor, try hickory or mesquite. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the grill to prevent them from burning too quickly. The type of wood you choose will affect the overall flavor profile of the bacon.