With its savory smoky flavor and convenient fully-cooked preparation, Canadian bacon is a breakfast and sandwich staple beloved by many. But how exactly should you cook this ham-like bacon variety to bring out its best flavors and textures?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cooking Canadian bacon using various quick and easy methods. From stovetop frying to oven baking and even microwaving we’ve got you covered on how to cook Canadian bacon to perfection every time!
What is Canadian Bacon?
First, let’s clarify exactly what makes Canadian bacon different from regular pork bacon. Canuck bacon is made from the lean loin meat of a pig, not the belly or side cuts. It tastes less strong than bacon from the fatty belly and has a tender, ham-like texture.
Canadian bacon comes pre-cooked so it just needs to be heated through before eating. It provides salty smoky flavor without all the grease of regular bacon. Thinner than ham it crisps up nicely when cooked. Let’s explore proper cooking methods!
Stovetop Pan-Frying
One of the quickest and easiest ways to cook Canadian bacon is in a skillet on the stovetop. Here’s how
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Heat 1 tbsp butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add bacon slices in a single layer. Cook 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
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Use tongs to flip carefully. Cook another 30-60 seconds on the second side.
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Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
Pan-frying gives you quick, even results with crispy edges and chewy centers when done right. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Oven Baking Method
For larger batches, baking Canadian bacon in the oven is convenient:
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Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Arrange bacon slices on sheet in a single layer without overlapping.
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Bake 10-15 minutes, until sizzling and lightly browned.
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Remove pan and let bacon cool 5 minutes before serving.
The oven surrounds the bacon with gentle heat for tender, juicy results. Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drippings.
Microwaving for Fast Results
Need Canadian bacon in a hurry? The microwave is your friend:
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Place slices on a microwave-safe plate without overlapping.
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Cover with paper towels to prevent splatters.
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Microwave on 50% power in 30 second bursts until hot.
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Let stand 1 minute before serving.
Microwaving won’t crisp up the bacon, but it’s a fast option when you’re rushed. Adjust cook times based on slice amount.
Handy Serving Ideas
Once you’ve mastered cooking Canadian bacon, try serving it in fun ways like:
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Breakfast sandwiches with egg and cheese
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Eggs Benedict topped with hollandaise
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Salad toppers for wedge, Cobb, or spinach salads
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Pizza topping for a protein punch
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Add to pasta, soups, baked beans for a pop of flavor
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Pair with fruits like pineapple and melon at brunch
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Crumble into hashbrowns or home fries
With its versatility, Canadian bacon can upgrade any meal! Follow these tips for irresistible results when cooking.
Helpful Hints and Tips
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If baking a lot of bacon, use multiple pans so slices aren’t crowded.
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Microwave in 30 second increments to prevent overcooking.
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Add flavors like maple syrup, brown sugar, or pepper before cooking.
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Cook until hot and slightly crispy but not burnt or dried out.
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Let cool 1-2 minutes before eating to avoid burning your mouth.
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Store leftovers wrapped in the fridge and eat within 4 days.
Now that you’re a pro at cooking Canadian bacon, you can enjoy its signature flavor anytime. From quick breakfast sandwiches to elegant brunch dishes, this tasty pork product is sure to upgrade your meals. Fry, bake, or microwave your way to deliciousness!
Maple-Cured Canadian Bacon Recipe
- 1 gallon water, divided
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pink salt (aka InstaCure, Prague Powder)
- 4 bay leaves
- 3 medium cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 pork loin without bones and extra fat cut off (about 4 to 5 pounds)
- 1 to 2 fist-sized pieces of apple or cherry wood that smokes lightly
- Add 1 quart of water, kosher salt, maple syrup, brown sugar, pink salt, bay leaves, garlic, and peppercorns to a medium saucepan. This is how you make the cure. Bring to a boil over high heat and stir to mix the sugar and salt. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Move to a large container and add the last three quarts of water while stirring. Place in refrigerator until completely chilled. Cover the pork loin completely with the cure. Place it in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.
- Remove pork from cure and place in large container. Add enough fresh water to fully submerge loin. Leave the pork in the water for 30 minutes. Then, take it out and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Heat the grill or smoker to 225°F (107°C), then add chunks of smoking wood once it’s hot. Once the wood is lit and smoking, add the pork. Cook for about 2 to 3 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork loin reads 140°F (60°C).
- Let pork cool for 30 minutes. Slice and pan fry before serving.
Homemade Canadian Bacon Recipe – How to Make Canadian Bacon Easy
FAQ
Do you cook Canadian bacon like regular bacon?
How do you know if Canadian bacon is cooked?
Do you need oil for Canadian bacon?
How long does Canadian bacon take?
How do you cook Canadian bacon on a stove?
How To Cook Canadian Bacon on Stove Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add oil or butter, tilting to coat pan. When oil is hot, add Canadian bacon slices in a single layer. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
How long do you cook Canadian bacon?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the Canadian bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cook the bacon for about 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep a close eye on it, as the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.
How do you cook Canadian bacon in a frying pan?
Flip the bacon and fry the other side for 30-60 seconds. Heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of butter or cooking oil in a nonstick skillet. Swirl the butter or oil to coat the entire surface of the skillet evenly. Once it begins to sizzle slightly, it will be hot enough to add the Canadian bacon.
How do you make Canadian bacon?
Let pork cool for 30 minutes. Slice and pan fry before before serving. A lean pork loin is soaked in a sweet maple cure then smoked, sliced, and pan fried. The end result is a Canadian bacon with a great sweet and salty mixture that is more pronounced and complex than what you get off the shelf.