Editing Bacon

{{about|the food|the English philosopher and statesman|Francis Bacon}}

{{Infobox food
| name = Bacon
| image = Bacon.jpg|thumb|right
| caption = Cooked bacon strips
| country = Various
| region = Worldwide
| type = Meat
| main_ingredient = Pork
| variations = Back bacon, Canadian bacon, pancetta
}}

'''Bacon''' is a type of salt-cured pork that is typically sliced thin and cooked until crispy. It is a popular breakfast food and is used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. Bacon is enjoyed around the world and has become a staple in many cultures.

== History ==

[[File:Made20bacon.png|thumb|right|230px|A strip of pork bacon.]]

Bacon has been around for centuries and is thought to have originated in China. The word "bacon" comes from the Old High German word "bacho," which means "buttock," and originally referred to any type of salted or smoked meat. Bacon was a common food in Europe during the Middle Ages and was particularly popular in England.

In the United States, bacon became popular in the early 1900s and has since become a staple in many households. Today, bacon is enjoyed around the world and is used in a variety of dishes.

== Types of Bacon ==

=== American Bacon ===

American bacon is made from pork belly and is typically sliced thin and cured with salt, sugar, and spices. It is then smoked over wood chips to give it a smoky flavor. American bacon is crispy and salty and is often served with eggs for breakfast.

=== Canadian Bacon ===

Canadian bacon is also known as back bacon or peameal bacon. It is made from pork loin and is typically leaner than American bacon. Canadian bacon is cured and then rolled in cornmeal, giving it a slightly sweeter flavor. It is often served as part of a traditional English breakfast.

=== Pancetta ===

Pancetta is an Italian bacon that is made from pork belly. It is cured with salt and spices, but is not smoked like American bacon. Pancetta is often used in Italian dishes, such as carbonara and amatriciana.

== Health Concerns ==

Bacon is high in fat and sodium, and is often criticized for its negative health effects. Studies have linked the consumption of bacon to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. However, bacon can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

== Cooking with Bacon ==

[[Image:Speck-1.jpg|thumb|Bacon from the back (above) and belly (below)]]

Bacon can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, baking, and grilling. It is often used as a flavoring ingredient in dishes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. Bacon can also be wrapped around other foods, such as chicken or scallops, to add flavor and texture.

== Cultural Significance ==

Bacon has become a cultural icon in many parts of the world, and has been the subject of countless jokes and memes. In the United States, there is even a National Bacon Day, which is celebrated on the Saturday before Labor Day. Bacon-themed festivals and events are held around the world, and there are even bacon-themed products, such as bacon-flavored toothpaste and bacon-scented candles.

In addition to its cultural significance, bacon has also been used in popular culture. It has been mentioned in songs, movies, and TV shows, and has even been the subject of its own reality TV show, "United States of Bacon."

== References ==

<references />
[[File:2018 Corner 117 Bacon Dinner - Sarah Stierch.jpg|thumb|right|Bacon and eggs breakfast]]

[[File:Canadian bacon.jpg|thumb|right|Canadian bacon]]

[[File:Maple Bacon Doughnut.jpg|thumb|right|Pancetta]]

[[Category:Meat]]
[[Category:Pork]]
[[Category:Breakfast foods]]
[[Category:Cuisine]]

== Conclusion ==

Bacon is a versatile and flavorful food that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether you prefer American bacon, Canadian bacon, or pancetta, there is a type of bacon out there for everyone. While bacon is high in fat and sodium, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. Whether you're cooking it up for breakfast or using it to flavor a dish, bacon is a delicious addition to any meal.

[[Category:Meat]]
[[Category:Pork]]
[[Category:Breakfast foods]]
[[Category:Cuisine]]

'''Bacon''' is a type of [[meat]] that comes from [[pig]]s. It is taken from the sides, back, or belly of the pig. It is often cut in thin slices, unlike other cured or smoked [[pork]] products. It is usually [[Frying|fried]] or [[Grill (cooking)|grilled]]. It can also be [[microwave oven|microwaved]].

In the [[USA]], back bacon and smoked [[ham]] is sometimes called [[Canadian bacon]].

Bacon has lots of fat. Because bacon comes from pigs, some religions will not eat it. In some cultures and religions (such as [[Islam]] and [[Judaism]]), eating pork may be considered "unclean." Because of this, other varieties of bacon are also made out of [[Turkey (bird)|turkey]] or [[chicken]] instead. Turkey bacon and chicken bacon usually contain half of the fat of pork-based bacon.


{{food-stub}}

[[Category:Pork]]
[[Category:Breakfast foods]]
{{Bacon}}
<gallery>
File:Made20bacon.png|Bacon
File:Bacon in a pan.jpg|Bacon in a pan
File:Bacon in a pan (cooked).jpg|Cooked bacon in a pan
</gallery>