How To Cook Bacon

Food Republic features so many recipes involving cooking bacon (and why not?) that we thought a primer to cooking it perfectly was in order. Any of these techniques will not only yield crispy, salty bacon, it'll also perfume your home with smoky, manly essence de cochon. That's French for the permeating aroma of bacon sure to stick happily to your kitchen walls all day long.

Whether you choose pan, oven, or microwave to satisfy your craving for crunchy cured meat, there's an easy bacon cooking technique for you.

Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium heat, then add as many strips of bacon as will fit comfortably without overlapping. Fry until brown and crispy on one side, about five minutes, then flip and fry on the other side. This method runs a risk of burning, seemingly out of nowhere, so make sure you keep an eye on it. Another necessary, if not obvious disclaimer: Watch out for bacon fat splatter.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Lay bacon strips evenly on a baking sheet, making sure not to overlap, and bake for 20 minutes. Don't open the oven to check on them. They're fine in there, they're happy. Remove from oven and transfer bacon to a layer of paper towels to drain.  

Line a microwave-safe plate with two layers of paper towels, then line four strips of bacon on top. Cover with another layer of paper towels, then lay another four strips facing the other way. Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, checking after 3. When the bacon is done to your liking, remove and transfer strips to another layer of paper towels to drain.

What's your favorite method of cooking bacon?  Tell us in the comments.