Bacon on the Grill Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound lean thick-cut bacon

Directions

Step 1: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-low heat.

Step 2: Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Step 3: Place a cooling rack on top of the baking sheet.

Step 4: Lay the bacon on the rack, ensuring that the pieces do not overlap.

Step 5: Place the baking sheet on the grill grate, close the lid, and cook the bacon for about 12 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.

Step 6: Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Facts	Amount per Serving
Calories	126
Total Fat	11g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	27mg
Sodium	521mg
Protein	7g

Servings Per Recipe: 6

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. The amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

History of Bacon on the Grill

The tradition of grilling meat dates back centuries, with early civilizations using open flames to cook everything from fish to larger game. Bacon, however, has a more recent and localized history. Originating in Europe, particularly in England, bacon became a staple due to its preservation methods and versatility. The grilling of bacon, however, became more popular in the United States during the 20th century when the rise of outdoor barbecues and backyard grilling culture surged. Today, grilling bacon offers a unique twist on the traditional pan-frying method, infusing it with a smoky flavor and making cleanup much easier. The technique has grown in popularity, particularly in warmer climates, where grilling outdoors is both a social activity and a way to avoid heating up the kitchen during hot months.

Regional Features of Bacon on the Grill

Grilling bacon is most commonly associated with American barbecue culture, especially in the Southern states, where grilling meats is a long-standing tradition. The Midwest, with its hot and humid summers, also embraces the convenience of cooking bacon on the grill, keeping the heat outside. While bacon is globally beloved, grilling it is mostly popular in North America and parts of Australia, where the grill culture is a central part of outdoor cooking. In other regions, such as Europe, bacon is often prepared indoors using a pan or oven, as grilling is not as prevalent in everyday cooking.

How Bacon on the Grill Differs from Similar Dishes

Bacon on the grill offers a few notable differences compared to other similar dishes, such as bacon cooked in a skillet or oven. First, grilling bacon allows the fat to drip away, resulting in a crispier texture and a less greasy final product. Second, the smoky flavor imparted by the grill enhances the bacon's natural flavors in a way that pan-frying or baking cannot. Finally, grilling bacon is a more hands-off cooking method, with the bacon laid out on a rack and left to cook without needing constant attention. This makes grilling an ideal option for those who want to cook large batches of bacon for a crowd or during a summer barbecue.

Where Is Bacon on the Grill Typically Served?

Bacon on the grill is often served at outdoor gatherings such as barbecues, cookouts, or camping trips. Its versatility makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from breakfast spreads to dinner plates. It's also a popular addition to burgers, salads, and sandwiches, where its crispy texture and smoky flavor elevate the entire dish. In more casual settings, bacon grilled outdoors can be a star of the meal, especially when paired with eggs, pancakes, or roasted vegetables.

Interesting Facts About Bacon on the Grill

• Grilling bacon is a relatively modern technique that started gaining popularity in the 1990s with the rise of outdoor grilling culture in the U.S.
• Using a rack to grill bacon is key to ensuring that the fat drips away, making the bacon less greasy while still achieving a perfect crispiness.
• Grilled bacon often has a more intense smoky flavor compared to pan-fried bacon, due to the direct exposure to smoke from the grill.
• In many barbecue competitions, grilling bacon is a fun and creative challenge, often leading to unique flavors and textures.
• Some grilling enthusiasts add spices or even brown sugar to their bacon before grilling it, giving it a sweet and savory flavor profile.

Conclusion

Grilled bacon is a simple yet delicious twist on a beloved breakfast favorite. Whether you're using it to top off a burger or enjoy it on its own with some scrambled eggs, the smoky, crispy goodness is sure to elevate any meal. With its rich history and growing popularity, bacon on the grill has earned its place in outdoor cooking traditions and continues to be a crowd-pleaser at events across the globe.

FAQ about Bacon on the Grill Recipe

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