A Complete Guide to Finding and Buying Canadian Bacon in the UK

Canadian bacon, sometimes called back bacon, is a beloved breakfast meat across the pond in Canada This smoked, lean cut from the pork loin has a delicious ham-like flavor. While not as common in the UK, Canadian bacon can still be found in specialty shops and online for those craving an authentic taste of the Canadian breakfast experience

Keep reading to learn exactly what Canadian bacon is, where to find it in the UK, and how to choose high-quality Canadian bacon for the perfect addition to your English breakfast.

What Is Canadian Bacon?

First, let’s clarify what makes Canadian bacon different from other types of bacon commonly found in the UK.

Canadian bacon comes from the lean eye of the pork loin. It contains very little fat compared to streaky bacon from the belly. Canadian bacon is smoked to add flavor, while streaky bacon is fried or grilled. The meat is also cured in a brine before smoking.

When cooked, Canadian bacon is pink, juicy and tender with a concentrated ham-like taste from the smoking process. It has a round, oval shape unlike the flat strips of streaky bacon. Traditional Canadian bacon is not sold pre-cooked.

• Made from the lean pork loin

• Contains very little fat

• Is smoked rather than fried/grilled

• Has a ham-like flavor

• Raw rather than pre-cooked

• Shaped like a tenderloin steak

This gives Canadian bacon a distinct sweet, smoky flavor and tender texture perfect for breakfast dishes.

Where to Buy Canadian Bacon in the UK

While Canadian bacon has not quite caught on in the UK yet, there are still several places to find authentic imported Canadian bacon or UK-produced equivalents:

Online Shops

Specialty online butchers like Farmison & Co., Haus of Bacon, and The Great British Meat Co. sell genuine Canadian bacon shipped from Canada. Prices range from £3.50-£5.00 for a 300g pack.

Amazon UK also stocks various Canadian bacon brands like Maple Leaf and Kitchen Cooked Classic. Look for pkgs labelled as “back bacon” or “Canadian bacon.”

Specialty Butchers

Independent butchers, especially those serving expat communities, sometimes stock Canadian bacon brought in from Canada. Check specialty shops in your area or ask your butcher if they can source it.

Farm Shops and Delis

Farm shops and delis selling artisan charcuterie products may carry their own versions of Canadian-style back bacon crafted on premises. While not imported, these have a similar flavour.

Online Grocers

British online grocers like Ocado have started stocking own-brand Canadian bacon in recent years as its popularity grows.

Substitute British Back Bacon

In a pinch, British dry-cured back bacon makes a reasonable substitute. While the lean pork loin is cured differently, you still get a hint of that Canadian bacon essence.

So check your local butcher, farm shop or online grocer to see if you can track down some authentic Canadian bacon or an acceptable substitute. It may take some hunting, but you should be able to find it.

What to Look for When Buying Canadian Bacon

Once you find a source for Canadian bacon, look for these signs of quality when selecting the best product:

• Reddish pink color: Quality Canadian bacon has a rich reddish-pink hue from the curing and smoking process. Avoid grayish or brown tints.

• Good marbling: Some fine fat marbling is normal but should not be excessive. Watch for large white fat deposits.

• Firm, moist texture: Raw Canadian bacon should feel firm yet moist. Dry, tough meat indicates over-smoking.

• Mild smoky aroma: You want a subtle, woodsy smoke scent. A strong “off” smell means the meat is old.

• Reputable brand: Brands like Maple Leaf have built a reputation for premium Canadian bacon. Trusted brands offer peace of mind.

• Vacuum-sealed pack: The bacon should come vacuum-sealed in a plastic pack. This maintains freshness. Avoid loose or unpacked meat.

• Sell by date: Only buy Canadian bacon before its “sell by” or “use by” date for optimal freshness and flavor.

Following these guidelines will help you select high-quality Canadian bacon with the signature smoked flavor and tender texture.

How to Cook Canadian Bacon

Canadian bacon may look like ham, but it cooks up differently. Here are some tips for cooking Canadian bacon perfectly:

• Pan fry over medium-low heat about 2-3 minutes per side to warm through without overcooking. Pour off any excess fat.

• Bake in the oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until heated through but not tough.

• Grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. The smoky flavor pairs well with the grill.

• Microwave on HIGH for 45 seconds to 1 minute per slice to warm up. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Don’t overcook – Canadian bacon goes from juicy to dry and chewy quickly. Stop cooking at the first sign of browning.

• Let rest for 5 minutes after cooking before eating to allow juices to redistribute.

For best results, stick to quick cooking methods that gently warm the Canadian bacon without drying it out or altering the tender texture.

Serving Suggestions for Canadian Bacon

Canadian bacon’s versatility makes it right at home in various breakfast dishes:

• A Canadian bacon sandwich with egg, tomato and lettuce on an English muffin

• Served alongside pancakes or waffles

• Chopped up in scrambled eggs or an omelette

• On a pizza with sautéed peppers and mushrooms

• Baked beans topped with Canadian bacon

• A potato hash mixed with Canadian bacon bits

• Wrapped around asparagus and grilled

With its mild smoked taste, Canadian bacon complements both sweet and savory ingredients. It brings authentic Canadian flair to any plate.

Once an imported delicacy, Canadian bacon is becoming more widely available in the UK. While still considered a specialty item, you can now find it in online shops, butchers, delis and grocers if you know where to look. Follow these tips for choosing high-quality Canadian bacon and cooking it properly. Soon you’ll be enjoying this Canadian breakfast staple as part of your own English morning fry-up.