Update 'This is a guide to everyone's favorite pork product, bacon: What is it?'

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+Throughout many cultures and cuisines, bacon is one of the most popular foods. Since ancient times, this savory and salty pork product has been a breakfast mainstay, appearing on pizza, salads, sandwiches, and more. But let's find out: what is bacon really like, and how is it made? 
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+A Synopsis of Bacon's History. The art of curing pork belly goes back thousands of years, though it's difficult to say exactly when bacon originated. Bacon was first produced in Europe by the Romans, who also assisted the Chinese in curing their pig bellies as early as 1500 BC. Bacon was one of the first meats that European settlers brought to the Americas and gained popularity in England in the 1500s. 
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+There are several Germanic and French dialects that give rise to the term "bacon.". Old High German "bakkon" eventually gave rise to the English word "bacoun.". It's evident that bacon has long been a global favorite! 
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+What Makes Bacon: The foundation of traditional bacon is the fatty underbelly of the pig, known as the pork belly, which contains a mottled mixture of fat and meat. Additional bacon cuts are from the side, back, or pig loin. Cuts from the birds are used in place of pork in turkey or chicken [bacon](https://bacon.com/). 
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+Salt, nitrates, nitrites, and occasionally sugar or maple syrup are used to cure, preserve, and flavor pork belly. After that, it is gently smoked for days at a low heat over a wood fire. As the bacon cooks, this gives it an irresistible smoky flavor. It is then packaged and sliced for all of our bacon-loving delights! 
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+Bacon types. Not all bacons are made equal! Here are a few of the most popular types: Streaky bacon: Made from pork belly with long fat veins. This is the bacon that is most commonly prepared "American-style.". 
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+The bacon from the back of the pig is called back bacon. Compared to streaky bacon, it is leaner. 
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+Lean pork loin is also used to make Canadian bacon. Pre-sliced is how it is usually sold. 
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+Using turkey meat instead of pork results in turkey bacon. There's a faint taste of turkey. 
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+Thinly sliced dry-cured ham in the Italian style is called prosciutto. Unsmoked Italian bacon, or pancetta, is used as a seasoning. The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Bacon. While cooking bacon might seem easy, there are a few tricks and tips you can use to get the best results. Pan-frying is a classic method that lets you cook bacon to the exact crispiness you want. Place the strips in a chilled pan and cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat. 
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+Bake: Arrange the strips on a baking sheet covered with foil, and bake for 10 to 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Microwave: Quick, but may cause uneven cooking. Less splatter. In 30-second intervals, place the strips between paper towels and the microwave. 
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+On paper towels, let the cooked bacon drain. Try these creative ways to eat bacon and save the flavorful drippings for cooking. Due to its versatility, bacon is a favorite for burgers and sandwiches, including cheeseburgers and BLTs. It also works well with eggs and pancakes for breakfast. Bacon bits add flavor to vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and salads. Bacon is the ideal topping for pizza and baked potatoes. Dessert: Candied bacon, which is bacon that has been roasted and coated in maple or brown sugar to create a sweet and salty treat, would be great on donuts or cupcakes. Bacon: Moderation is the key to its health benefits. It has a high sodium and saturated fat content, which can be harmful if ingested in excess. Certain cancers have also been connected to the nitrates used to cure bacon. 
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+But bacon does contain zinc, B vitamins, and protein. To lower nitrates, choose center-cut bacon, which has less fat, or look for uncured or turkey bacon. As part of a balanced diet, enjoy bacon in moderation and lots of vegetables. 
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+It's obvious that bacon has a particular place on our plates and in our hearts. It is possible to select your favorite method of consuming this famous dish by being aware of its preparation and varieties. For your own health, just be aware of servings. You deserve a delicious bacon breakfast, so go ahead and indulge!