Bacon is one of the most beloved ingredients worldwide. Its smoky flavor and crispy texture make it a favorite for adding to dishes or cooking.
But can you steam bacon in a steamer?
Can a steamer cook bacon instead of frying it in a pan?
This article will examine this question and explore the pros and cons of using a steamer for cooking bacon.
Let’s get into it!
Can You Steam Bacon In A Steamer?
Yes, you can steam bacon with a regular food steamer if you have one available. It takes longer than frying as it needs more time for all that moisture to escape from your sizzling strips.
But once done, they’ll still be just as delicious, just not quite as crunchy. Plus, since no fat is added when steaming your breakfast meat, you get an overall healthier option than fried versions.
See also: Can You Steam Abalone In A Steamer?
What’s The Difference Between Frying And Steaming Bacon?
When it comes to cooking bacon, two main methods come to mind: frying and steaming.
Both of these popular methods can produce delicious bacon dishes. But which one should you use?
Let’s explore each method to understand better the differences between frying and steaming bacon.
Frying Method
Frying is a very common way to prepare bacon. It involves heating a skillet over medium-high heat before adding in strips of raw bacon.
The fat from the bacon melts down into the hot pan, creating a sizzling sound as it cooks and releasing its flavorful aroma into the air.
After several minutes, depending on your desired level of crispness, the finished product will be golden brown and crispy.
Perfect for topping off salads or sandwiches! The downside is that this method results in quite a bit of splatter due to all the fat released by the cooking process.
Steaming Method
Steaming has become increasingly popular among those looking for healthier alternatives when preparing meals without sacrificing flavor or texture.
This method requires placing strips of raw bacon onto an elevated rack inside a pot filled with water or broth set over high heat until boiling point is reached.
Then reduce heat so that just enough steam remains active throughout cooking (8-10 minutes).
The result is tender yet slightly crispy pieces with minimal grease content compared to traditional fried versions, making them ideal for light salads or wraps.
On top of being healthier overall than frying, this approach also helps prevent messy splatters while preparing your meal.
See also: Can You Steam Brussels Sprouts In A Steamer?
Pros And Cons Of Steaming Bacon In A Steamer
While you can get creative with steaming and try out various flavors and textures, you should consider the pros and cons before deciding whether this method is right for you.
Pros Of Steaming Bacon
Steamed bacon is healthier than fried because it requires no additional fat and has fewer calories. It also avoids the mess of frying, so there’s less cleanup involved.
Furthermore, steaming can bring out more flavor in your bacon as it allows for a longer cooking time, allowing the smoky flavors to develop.
Cons Of Steaming Bacon
The main downside of using a steamer for bacon is that it takes much longer to cook – around 20 minutes compared with just 8 minutes when frying.
Also, since steamers don’t get as hot as a pan on the stovetop, you may not achieve the same crispness or golden brown color when steaming rather than frying.
See also: Can You Steam Beets In A Steamer?
Necessary Equipment for Steaming Bacon
You’ll need a few pieces of equipment to steam bacon. A large pot or skillet with a lid, some water, and an oven-safe plate are all necessary.
Make sure the plate is big enough to fit the amount of bacon you want to cook. You’ll also need tongs and a heat source such as an oven, stovetop burner, or microwave.
Once you have all your materials ready, it’s time to start steaming.
How to Steam Bacon in a Steamer Perfectly
Cooking bacon perfectly can be tricky. To get the perfect texture and flavor, follow these steps for steaming bacon.
- Start by adding 1/4 cup of water to a skillet over medium heat.
- Place the slices of bacon in the pan and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it steam until cooked but not crispy, approximately 3 minutes per side.
- Once done, remove from heat and pat dry with paper towels before serving.
See also: Can You Steam Chicken Breast In A Steamer?
FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Steam Bacon?
The best way to steam bacon is to place it in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover it with a lid. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until desired crispness is achieved.
How Long Does It Take To Steam Bacon?
It typically takes about 10 minutes to steam bacon. If you’re using a microwave for steaming, it usually takes about 4 minutes.
Is Steamed Bacon Healthy?
Yes, steaming bacon is a healthier option than frying because it requires no additional fat and has fewer calories. Additionally, there’s less mess and cleanup involved with this method.
Can You Reheat Steamed Bacon?
Yes, you can reheat steamed bacon. However, it is important to ensure that the bacon is heated thoroughly and evenly to avoid any food safety issues.
Is It Better To Cook Bacon On The Electric Steamer Or The Stove?
It depends on personal preference. Cooking bacon in an electric steamer is generally easier and less messy, but some people prefer the flavor of stove-cooked bacon.
Conclusion
While it is possible to steam bacon in a regular food steamer, some people may find this method time-consuming compared to frying and not quite as tasty due to a lack of crispiness.
However, this could be worth considering if you’re looking for an overall healthier option without all the mess.
Happy cooking!