Turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative to traditional pork bacon, and cooking it in the microwave provides a speedy and convenient option for a quick breakfast or snack. While it might not achieve the same crispiness as pan-fried bacon, the microwave method delivers perfectly edible results in a fraction of the time. This guide will walk you through the process, addressing common questions and providing tips for achieving optimal results.
What You'll Need:
- Turkey bacon: Choose your preferred brand and cut. Pre-cooked turkey bacon requires less cooking time than uncooked.
- Microwave-safe plate: Avoid using metal or foil, which can damage your microwave. Paper towels are also helpful.
- Microwave: Obviously! Knowing the wattage of your microwave can help adjust cooking times.
How to Cook Turkey Bacon in the Microwave: Step-by-Step
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Prepare the bacon: Lay the turkey bacon slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Avoid overlapping the slices to ensure even cooking.
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Add paper towels (optional): Placing a paper towel on top of the bacon can help absorb excess grease and prevent splattering. This is especially beneficial for crispier results.
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Microwave: Cook the bacon in 30-second intervals, checking for doneness after each interval. Cooking time will vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, the thickness of the bacon, and whether it's pre-cooked. Pre-cooked bacon will require much less time – often just 15-30 seconds per side. Uncooked bacon may need 1-2 minutes total.
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Check for doneness: The bacon should be heated through and slightly crispy. If you prefer crispier bacon, continue microwaving in shorter intervals until desired crispness is achieved. Be careful not to overcook, as this can result in dry, hard bacon.
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Remove and enjoy: Carefully remove the bacon from the microwave using tongs or a spatula, as the plate will be hot. Let it cool slightly before consuming.
How Long Do I Microwave Turkey Bacon?
This is the most frequently asked question, and unfortunately, there's no single answer. The cooking time depends on several factors:
- Microwave wattage: Higher wattage microwaves cook faster.
- Bacon thickness: Thicker slices require longer cooking times.
- Pre-cooked or uncooked: Pre-cooked bacon needs much less time than uncooked bacon.
Start with shorter intervals (30 seconds for pre-cooked, 45 seconds to a minute for uncooked) and adjust as needed. It's always better to undercook slightly than to overcook and end up with tough bacon.
Can I Cook Multiple Slices at Once?
Yes, you can cook multiple slices simultaneously, but ensure they are arranged in a single layer to prevent uneven cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
How Do I Make Microwave Turkey Bacon Crispier?
While microwave cooking won't deliver the same crispiness as pan-frying, you can enhance the crispiness by:
- Using a paper towel: This absorbs excess grease, promoting crispier bacon.
- Cooking in shorter intervals: Checking and adjusting frequently allows for better control of the crispiness.
- Adding a few drops of water: Adding a few drops of water to the paper towel before microwaving helps generate steam that can slightly crisp the bacon.
Is Microwave Turkey Bacon Healthy?
Microwave cooking doesn't significantly impact the nutritional value of turkey bacon. However, keep in mind that even turkey bacon contains sodium, so moderation is key.
Conclusion
Microwaving turkey bacon provides a quick and easy way to enjoy this healthier alternative to pork bacon. While it may not be as crispy as pan-fried bacon, following these steps will help you achieve delicious, perfectly cooked turkey bacon in minutes. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your microwave's wattage and the thickness of your bacon slices. Enjoy!
