How to Cook Bacon in a Microwave: A Comprehensive Guide
Cooking bacon in a microwave? Yes, it’s a thing, and it’s surprisingly easy! With minimal effort and time, you can achieve perfect, crispy, and deliciously seasoned bacon. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook bacon in a microwave.
Why Microwave Bacon?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about why you’d want to cook bacon in a microwave. Some benefits include:
- Faster Cooking Time: Microwaves cook bacon up to 2-3 times faster than traditional methods like pan-frying or oven roasting.
- Less Mess: No messy pans or oil splatters to clean up, making cleanup a breeze.
- Easier Servings: Cook large quantities quickly and easily, making it perfect for group gatherings or meal prep.
**Microwave-Safe Dishes and Baking Methods
Before you start cooking your bacon, make sure you’re using a microwave-safe dish. Glass and ceramic dishes work well, as they can withstand high temperatures. Metal dishes, however, can reflect microwave energy, potentially causing burns or uneven cooking.
microwave-safe containers
Table: Microwave-Safe Containing Options
| Material | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Glass bowls | 1-6 cups |
| Ceramic dishes | 1-9 cups |
| Stainless steel/Enamel coated dishes | Up to 2 cups |
Cooking Tips and Techniques
1. Choose the Right Bacon: Opt for thicker-cut (1/8 inch or 3 mm) bacon, as it cooks evenly and holds its flavor well. Nitrate-free or uncured bacon is another great option for those seeking a slightly healthier alternative.
2. Line Up Your Bacon: Arrange the bacon in a single layer on your microwave-safe dish to ensure even cooking and prevent it from steaming instead of frying.
3. Adjust Cooking Power and Time: The cooking power and time will vary depending on your personal preference for crispiness and your microwave’s strength. Here’s a general guide:
| Bacon Thickness | Cooking Power (W) | Cooking Time (secs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1/8 inch (3 mm) | High (800-1000W) | 30-40 seconds |
| 1/4 inch (6 mm) | Medium (400-600W) | 45-60 seconds |
4. Crackling and Crisping Tips:
• Don’t overlap the bacon; this prevents even cooking and crispiness.
• Pat dry with paper towels after cooking to absorb excess moisture.
5. Check on Your Bacon
Microwave cooking is all about monitoring and adjusting. Stop the microwave periodically to check on the bacon’s crispiness.
Microwave-Cooking Interval Guide
| Microwave Cooking Interests | Cooking Intervals | Approx. Cooking Time (secs) |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon starts to crackle, but not fully cooked | Intervals of 15-20 seconds, check and rotate | 35-50 seconds |
| Bacon cracks and crisps, but overcooks easily | Intervals of 10-15 seconds, check and rotate | 20-35 seconds |
Important Safety Note**
When using the microwave, make sure to:
- Monitor the bacon frequently to prevent overcooking or burning.
- Use a microwave with a turned-off turntable (if your microwave model has one) to prevent uneven cooking.
Clean-up and Storage Tips
Remove the cooked bacon from the microwave and drain excess fat on a paper towel-lined plate.
Tips for Removing Excess Fat
• Pat dry with paper towels or gently blot excess fat with a cloth.
• For added crispiness, drizzle with a little olive oil.
Conclusion
Microwaving bacon is a quick, easy, and mess-free way to cook this breakfast staple. Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll be enjoying crisp, delicious, and microwave-cooked bacon in no time.