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lundi 28 août 2017

Treat Yourself To Candied Bacon

By Lisa Ellis


There is nothing wrong with having a special treat, even if there is nothing to celebrate. Snacks of today are not just sweet or savory but sometimes a wonderful combination of many flavors. To some people, candied bacon seems more like a fancy dessert that is a little salty and can be carried anywhere.

Though it may sound bizarre, the truth is that many of us had this in one form or another. Most common is with pancakes or waffles, when the syrup would run over into the bacon or sausage. Since most sausage links or patties have to be cooked, they are not as easy to carry around as bacon strips.

Pork tends to have a light taste that is enhanced by flavorings that are spicy or sweet. This is why many pork entrees have a sauce or marinade that is sugar or honey based. Adding savory to the mix enhances the flavor profile and makes it seem more like an entree and not dessert. However, some restaurants serve bacon candy as an appetizer or dessert.

Most recipes call for thick cut pork belly slices that have been smoked using applewood or hickory. A sauce containing real maple syrup, cinnamon, and a little sea salt may be used. Some recipes may use light brown sugar as part of a dry rub that adds to the crunchy texture.

Ground cinnamon and coarse sea salt are used sparingly, as too much can overpower the natural smoke flavor. After the ingredients are added, bake time is about twenty minutes using medium heat. After draining excess oil and cooling, the sugars will caramelize and this savory sweet snack is ready to enjoy.

This makes a nice food gift to present to someone on the job or at a social gathering. Since this can cook quickly on an outdoor grill, it also makes a nice appetizer or dessert. Because most of the excess moisture and oil are removed, it can be stored in room temperatures for a few days using a tightly sealed container.

For those who are health conscious, this treat is full of more protein than most sugary or processed snacks. Lean pork is one of the best things anyone can eat in moderation. A bacon slice without excess fat is also easier to cook, as there is less splatter. This recipe also allows for substitutions.

Turkey and meatless alternatives can be used, as some types have the same crispy texture as regular bacon. For the glaze, honey or agave nectar syrup makes a nice substitute and is less likely to cause sugar spikes. Spicy food fans like to add a bit of ground cayenne or chipotle pepper for a little excitement.

This can be the life of the party when added to a variety of edibles for entertaining. Yogurt based dips or hummus may be eaten with vegetable or grain chips. Those who feel they are indulging may be in for a nice surprise.




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