2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon contains around 80 calories, making it a popular choice for breakfast and brunch. This delicious bacon is made from natural ingredients and is smoked with real hickory wood, providing a unique flavor profile that is sure to delight. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, cooking instructions, health benefits, and more of this tasty bacon.

One serving of 2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon will provide you with 6 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat, and zero grams of carbohydrates. This makes it a great source of protein and fat for people following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Additionally, it contains no added nitrates or nitrites, making it a healthier option compared to traditional bacon that may contain harmful preservatives.

Cooking this bacon is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. Keep reading for some helpful tips and tricks on how to prepare this delicious bacon.

Nutritional Information

As mentioned earlier, 2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon contains around 80 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option compared to other breakfast meats. It also contains 6 grams of protein and 6 grams of fat, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. Additionally, it contains no added nitrates or nitrites, making it a healthier option compared to traditional bacon. Moreover, this bacon is gluten-free and does not contain any artificial flavors or colors. This means that you can enjoy it without any guilt and worry about consuming harmful chemicals or allergens. However, it is important to note that this bacon is still high in sodium, with each serving containing around 270 mg of sodium.

Ingredients

The ingredients for 2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon are simple and natural. They include: pork, water, sea salt, raw sugar, natural flavorings (celery powder), and lactic acid starter culture. As you can see, there are no added nitrates, nitrites, or preservatives, making it a healthier option compared to traditional bacon. Additionally, this bacon is gluten-free and does not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or allergens. This means that it is a suitable option for people with dietary restrictions and preferences. However, it is important to note that this bacon is still high in fat and sodium, and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking 2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon is quick and easy, and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some basic cooking instructions:

• Stovetop: Place bacon slices in a cold skillet and turn heat to medium. Cook, flipping occasionally, until bacon is crispy and golden-brown, about 5-7 minutes.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place bacon slices on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden-brown.
• Microwave: Place bacon slices on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered.

Remember to drain excess fat from the bacon after cooking, and dispose of it properly.

Health Benefits

2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon has a number of health benefits. Firstly, it is a great source of protein and fat, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. Additionally, it contains no added nitrates or nitrites, making it a healthier option compared to traditional bacon that may contain harmful preservatives. Moreover, this bacon is gluten-free and does not contain any artificial flavors or colors. This means that you can enjoy it without any guilt and worry about consuming harmful chemicals or allergens. However, it is important to note that this bacon is still high in fat and sodium, and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Alternative Recipes

2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon can be used in a variety of recipes, from classic BLTs to savory breakfast hashes. Here are some creative ideas for using this delicious bacon:

• Bacon-wrapped dates: Stuff Medjool dates with goat cheese and wrap them in bacon. Bake until crispy and golden-brown.
• Bacon-wrapped jalapeños: Stuff jalapeño peppers with cream cheese and wrap them in bacon. Grill or bake until crisp and tender.
• Bacon-wrapped chicken: Wrap chicken breasts in bacon and bake until golden-brown and juicy.

Bacon Pairing Ideas

2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon pairs well with a variety of flavors, from sweet to savory. Here are some delicious pairing ideas to try:

• Bacon and eggs: A classic breakfast combo that never gets old.
• Bacon and pancakes: The sweet and salty flavors complement each other perfectly.
• Bacon and avocado: The creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the bacon.
• Bacon and tomato: A classic BLT is always a good idea.

Bacon Preparation Tips

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to prepare 2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon:

• Use a non-stick skillet to cook the bacon to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Pat the bacon slices dry with a paper towel before cooking to remove excess moisture.
• Cook bacon on medium heat to prevent burning and ensure optimal crispiness.
• Remove bacon from the skillet with tongs or a fork to prevent splatters and burns.

Storage Suggestions

2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. To extend its shelf life, you can also freeze the bacon for up to six months. Here are some helpful tips for storing bacon:

• Store bacon in an airtight container or Ziploc bag to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
• Label the container with the date of purchase to keep track of its shelf life.
• Thaw frozen bacon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even thawing.

Bacon Buffet Ideas

If you're hosting a brunch or breakfast buffet, 2 slices (15 g) Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon is a must-have item. Here are some creative ideas for serving bacon at your buffet:

• Bacon-wrapped appetizers: Use bacon to wrap dates, jalapeños, or chicken skewers for a delicious appetizer option.
• Bacon and egg muffins: Make a tray of mini muffins with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon for a bite-sized breakfast option.
• Bacon-wrapped quiches: Use bacon to line muffin tins and fill them with quiche fillings for a fun and flavorful twist on traditional quiches.

Bacon Festivals

Did you know that there are bacon festivals held all over the world? These events celebrate all things bacon, from crispy strips to creative bacon-inspired dishes. Here are some of the most popular bacon festivals to check out:

• International Bacon Fest: Held annually in Iowa, this festival features bacon everything, from bacon-wrapped corn dogs to bacon cinnamon rolls.
• The Great Big Bacon Picnic: Held in Brooklyn, NY, this festival brings together some of the best chefs and restaurants in the city to showcase their most delicious bacon dishes.
• Bacon and Beer Classic: Held in various cities across the US, this festival pairs bacon-inspired dishes with craft beers for a delicious and boozy adventure.