Arkansas is known for producing some of the most flavorful and high-quality bacon around. If you’ve ever tried authentic Arkansas bacon, you know it has a wonderfully smoky, salty taste that’s hard to replicate with store-bought bacon. So how do you cook this specialty bacon to perfection? Read on for a complete guide to preparing delicious Arkansas bacon in your own kitchen.
What Makes Arkansas Bacon Unique?
Arkansas bacon has a few distinctive characteristics that set it apart from conventional bacon
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Thicker cut – Authentic Arkansas bacon is cut from the pork shoulder in thicker slices rather than thin slices. This allows for better smoking and more even cooking.
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Smoked but not cured – Traditional curing uses nitrites for preservation. Arkansas bacon is simply smoked over natural wood without curing agents.
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Higher omega-3s – The pork used has a better omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio (2.5:1 versus 20:1 in regular pork). This makes it healthier.
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Natural wood smoke – Genuine Arkansas bacon is smoked using local wood like hickory, apple, or maple. This imparts a rich, smoky flavor.
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Robust pork flavor – With its minimally processed preparation, the natural pork flavor really shines through.
These characteristics make Arkansas bacon well worth seeking out for its delicious rich taste and quality.
Best Cooking Methods for Arkansas Bacon
The thick cut and meaty texture of Arkansas bacon lends itself best to cooking methods that crisp up the meat while locking in moisture:
Oven Baked
Baking allows even cooking without the bacon shriveling up. Preheat oven to 400°F. Lay slices on a foil or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-35 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Pan Fried
Fry over medium heat in a heavy skillet, rubbing coarse pepper into one side first if desired. Cook 2-4 minutes per side until browned. Sprinkle with brown sugar the last 10 seconds.
Microwave
Arrange in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Cook for 2 minutes until pliable but not crisp. Use for salads, sandwiches or as a green bean topping.
No matter which technique you use, keep a close eye on the bacon to avoid burning. Checking it frequently is key.
Handy Equipment for Cooking Arkansas Bacon
Having the right gear makes cooking Arkansas bacon even easier:
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Rimmed baking sheets – For oven baking, to catch drippings. Line with foil or parchment.
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Wire racks – Fits inside baking sheets and allows air circulation for crispy bacon.
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Tongs – Helps arrange bacon slices and flip during pan frying with ease.
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Paper towels – Blot cooked bacon to soak up excess grease before serving.
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Meat thermometer – Checks doneness; target internal temp is 145°F.
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Heavy skillet – Choose cast iron or stainless steel for even heating when pan frying.
Investing in this basic equipment will give you the tools you need to cook Arkansas bacon to crispy perfection every time.
Handy Tips for Cooking Arkansas Bacon
Follow these tips for the very best results when cooking your Arkansas bacon:
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Choose fresh, high-quality thick-sliced bacon when possible. Look for natural smoked varieties.
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Let the oven fully preheat before baking to prevent uneven cooking.
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Cook the bacon just until crispy; it will continue to crisp up a bit after removing from heat.
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Blot cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease before serving.
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Let pan fried bacon rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
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Cook a few extra slices – Arkansas bacon makes amazing leftovers!
With the right techniques, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Arkansas bacon cooked to smoky, savory perfection.
Incorporating Arkansas Bacon into Recipes
The bold, porky flavor of Arkansas bacon makes it a perfect addition to all sorts of dishes:
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Wraps and sandwiches – Add crunch to sandwiches and burgers.
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Salads – Top salads with crumbled bacon for a salty punch.
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Soups and stews – Garnish hearty bean and potato soups with crispy bacon.
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Veggies – Wrap asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts in bacon before roasting.
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Baked potatoes – Top baked russets with bacon bits for a tasty twist.
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Meat dishes – Wrap bacon around pork chops or chicken breasts before cooking.
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Appetizers – Make bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers or stuff dates with bacon and cheese.
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Desserts – Candy bacon on its own or crumble over brownies and cookies.
With so many savory applications, Arkansas bacon can easily become your new secret ingredient!
Answers to Common Arkansas Bacon Questions
If you’re new to cooking with Arkansas bacon, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does unopened Arkansas bacon last in the fridge?
Properly stored, unopened packages will last up to 2 weeks past the sell-by date. Always check for spoilage before cooking.
How long will cooked Arkansas bacon keep in the fridge?
Cooked Arkansas bacon will last up to 1 week tightly wrapped in the fridge. Reheat until sizzling before eating.
Is it safe to freeze Arkansas bacon?
Absolutely! Wrap cooked bacon slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Should I microwave Arkansas bacon?
You can microwave it for 2 minutes to partially cook before using in recipes. But microwaving won’t get it fully crispy; use the oven or stove for that.
What’s the minimum internal temperature for cooked bacon?
Cook Arkansas bacon to an internal temperature of at least 145°F, checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures any bacteria are killed.
Enjoy Delicious Arkansas Bacon Today
With its signature wood-smoked flavor and hearty texture, Arkansas bacon is a true culinary treat. Smoke up a batch at home using the oven, stove or microwave and see why this specialty bacon is so highly coveted. From sandwiches to mains and even dessert, Arkansas bacon’s versatility makes it a staple ingredient you’ll want to always have on hand.