Bacon lardons are small cubes or sticks of bacon that have been cooked until crispy Their crunchy, salty flavor makes them a popular topping for salads, pasta dishes, and more While fresh lardons are ideal, you can also cook them from frozen bacon.
Cooking bacon lardons from frozen is an easy way to always have these crispy bacon bits on hand. Here is a complete guide to preparing perfect lardons from frozen bacon.
What are Bacon Lardons?
Let’s start with a quick overview of what exactly lardons are:
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Lardons are made by cutting bacon into small strips or cubes, usually around 1/2 inch in size.
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They are then cooked in a pan until browned and crispy. The fat renders out while the bacon pieces fry.
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Lardons add a smoky, salty, crispy texture to salads, pastas, soups, and other dishes as a topping or mix-in
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They are often used in French cooking and are a key ingredient in dishes like carbonara, cobb salad, and Niçoise salad.
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The terms lardon and bacon bit are sometimes used interchangeably
Can You Cook Lardons from Frozen Bacon?
While freshly-cut bacon makes the most tender lardons, you can absolutely cook lardons from frozen bacon.
In fact, keeping a supply of frozen bacon is a great way to always have lardons ready when a recipe calls for them. Here are some benefits to cooking lardons from frozen:
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Convenience – No need to wait for bacon to thaw. Frozen lardons can go right into the hot pan.
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Custom size – Cut the bacon to your desired lardon size before freezing.
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Batch cooking – Make a big batch of lardons at once to have ready anytime.
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Freezer storage – Frozen lardons keep for months in the freezer.
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Easy servings – Take out just the portion of lardons needed straight from the freezer.
The only potential downside is that frozen lardons may have a slightly softer texture compared to fresh-cut. But they will still get crispy when cooked.
Overall, frozen bacon lardons are an easy and practical option.
How to Make Lardons from Frozen Bacon
Cooking crispy lardons from frozen bacon just takes a few simple steps:
Ingredients:
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1 pound frozen bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Non-stick skillet
Instructions:
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Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
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Add the frozen bacon lardons and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently. The bacon will separate as it cooks.
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Once the lardons are browned and crisp, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
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Let cool slightly, then use them as a topping for salads, pastas, baked potatoes, or anything that needs a crunchy, salty kick.
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For longer freezer storage, cool lardons completely then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
That’s all there is to it! The pre-cut frozen bacon pieces cook up nice and crispy. Cook them in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan.
Tips for Cooking Frozen Lardons
Follow these tips for getting the best results when making lardons from frozen bacon:
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Cut bacon evenly – Uniformly cubed lardons will cook most evenly. Avoid large irregular pieces.
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Fry over medium-high heat – Lower heat may not render out the fat fully and crisp the lardons properly.
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Stir frequently – This helps prevent sticking as the lardons cook and separate.
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Use a non-stick pan – The small bacon bits can easily stick to stainless steel or cast iron.
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Blot grease – Drain on paper towels once cooked to remove excess bacon grease.
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Work in batches – Avoid overcrowding the pan which can steam instead of fry.
Follow these simple guidelines to enjoy perfect crispy lardons cooked right from the freezer!
How to Freeze Bacon for Cooking Lardons
To have frozen bacon ready for making lardons, here are some tips for freezer prep:
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Buy bacon when on sale for freezing. Look for big packs or bulk bacon.
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Separate the slices and cut into 1/2 inch cubes or sticks.
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Lay bacon pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until firm.
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Transfer the frozen lardons to zip-top freezer bags. Squeeze out air and seal.
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Label bags with content and date. Frozen lardons will keep 6 months.
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For portioning, divide into usable amounts like 1 cup or 2 cups per bag.
Now you’ll always have bacon ready for crisping into lardons or adding to recipes down the road!
FAQ About Cooking Lardons from Frozen Bacon
Here are answers to some common questions about making lardons from frozen bacon:
Can you cook bacon lardons without thawing first?
Yes, lardons can be cooked directly from frozen without thawing. The frozen state actually helps them hold their shape better initially.
Do lardons need to be patted dry before frying?
It’s not mandatory, but patting frozen lardons dry can help achieve a crisper texture since there will be less water in the pan.
Is it better to bake or fry lardons?
Frying is preferred for getting crispy lardons with browned edges. Baking gives a more evenly cooked result but less crispy texture.
How long do cooked lardons last in the fridge or freezer?
Cooked lardons will keep 3-4 days refrigerated and 6 months in the freezer. Freeze cooled lardons in an airtight container.
Can you cook lardons from frozen bacon in the air fryer?
Yes, air frying is a great hands-off option! Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.