Who knew the microwave could be the key to perfectly crispy bacon? Chef Frank Proto, a seasoned culinary expert, has revealed his secret for achieving that irresistible crunch without even touching a frying pan.
In a recent YouTube video, Chef Frank debunked the myth that microwaves are only good for reheating leftovers. He declared, “As a chef, I have zero problems with the microwave, it’s a great tool.” For those needing a quick and easy solution for just a few slices of bacon, he says, “If you need to get your bacon cooked in minutes, and you only need two or three slices, the microwave is the way to go.”
Microwave Bacon: Quick, Easy, and Clean
This method couldn’t be simpler. Just lay your bacon slices on a plate lined with paper towels, cover with more paper towels (this helps absorb the fat and steam the bacon), and microwave on high for four to six minutes. Chef Frank assures us, “The bacon will turn out super crispy and delicious every time.” Plus, cleanup is a breeze – no greasy frying pans to scrub!
Oven-Baked Bacon: Perfect for Large Batches
While the microwave is a winner for small amounts of bacon, Chef Frank recommends using the oven for larger batches. He explains, “You can cook bulk amounts of bacon, with less space, there’s no tending to the bacon, it also cooks the bacon more evenly without splatters in your kitchen, and the results are superior in every way.”
All you need is a baking sheet and some parchment paper. Chef Frank emphasizes that cooking on parchment paper allows the bacon to “cook in its own fat.” This not only produces the most flavorful bacon but also allows you to easily drain off any excess fat before serving.
Simply arrange your bacon slices side by side on the parchment paper, place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 180C (350F), and bake for approximately fifteen minutes. Once cooked, allow the bacon strips to cool on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any remaining grease.
So, whether you’re craving a quick breakfast treat or want to impress your guests with perfectly crispy bacon, Chef Frank’s tips have you covered. Experiment with both microwave and oven methods to discover which technique yields your ideal level of crispy bacon goodness!
