Sometimes the best techniques are the counterintuitive ones, and our simple stovetop method of cooking bacon in water is just that. It may sound weird, but it will produce crispy and tender bacon every time.
America’s Test Kitchen’s bacon innovation has always been top notch. We’ve put it in burgers, candied it, turned it into jam, and made our own. We’ve also tasted several types, from turkey to artisanal, to determine the best-tasting. But the idea of using water to cook bacon is definitely one of our best.
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Why Does Cooking Bacon in Water Work?
The addition of water keeps the initial cooking temperature low and gentle, so the meat retains its moisture and stays tender as the fat renders. Plus, since the water helps render the fat, there will be significantly less splatter as your bacon finishes in the pan.
Also, by the time the water reaches its boiling point, the bacon fat is almost completely rendered. This will help keep the meat bacon from burning, since you now don’t have to wait for the fat to cook off like you would if you cooked it the traditional way, instead of in water.
Now your bacon is tender and crisp, not dry and brittle—perfect for your next BLT.
How to Cook Bacon So It’s Crispy, Tender, and the Most Perfect Ever
FAQ
Is it safe to boil bacon?
Is it better to cook bacon in water or oil?
How to cook bacon in water?
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking bacon in water. Place the bacon slices in a single layer in your skillet. Add enough water to the skillet, ensuring that the bacon is fully submerged. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low once the water starts boiling.
How do you boil Bacon?
Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly boiled bacon: Choose the right bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon slices, which will hold up better during the boiling process. Prepare the liquid: Fill a pot with enough water or broth to fully submerge the bacon. Bring to a boil: Place the pot over high heat and bring the liquid to a rolling boil.
What happens if you boil Bacon in water?
Also, by the time the water reaches its boiling point, the bacon fat is almost completely rendered. This will help keep the meat bacon from burning, since you now don’t have to wait for the fat to cook off like you would if you cooked it the traditional way, instead of in water.
How do you cook bacon in a frying pan?
Add enough water to the skillet, ensuring that the bacon is fully submerged. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low once the water starts boiling. Simmer the bacon in the water for about 10 minutes, or until the desired level of crispiness is achieved.