What To Know
- The cooking time for raw bacon in the microwave will vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the desired crispiness.
- If you have a large amount of bacon to cook, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the microwave.
- No, it’s not recommended to microwave bacon without paper towels as it can cause the bacon to splatter and make a mess.
Microwaving raw bacon is a quick and convenient way to cook it, especially when you’re short on time or don’t want to heat up your kitchen. However, it’s important to do it correctly to ensure that the bacon is cooked evenly and safely. In this guide, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to microwave raw bacon, along with tips and troubleshooting advice.
Materials You’ll Need
- Raw bacon
- Paper towels
- Microwave-safe plate
- Microwave
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bacon: Remove the bacon from the refrigerator and separate the slices. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Line the Plate: Place a layer of paper towels on a microwave-safe plate to absorb any excess grease.
3. Arrange the Bacon: Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the paper towels. Do not overlap the slices.
4. Set the Microwave: Set the microwave to high power and choose a cooking time based on the desired crispiness (see Cooking Times section below).
5. Cook the Bacon: Microwave the bacon for the specified time.
6. Check the Bacon: After the cooking time is up, open the microwave and check the bacon. It should be slightly curled and have a golden-brown color. If it’s not cooked enough, microwave for a few seconds longer.
7. Drain the Bacon: Remove the bacon from the microwave and drain it on paper towels to remove any excess grease.
Cooking Times
The cooking time for raw bacon in the microwave will vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the desired crispiness. Here are some guidelines:
- Thinly Sliced Bacon: 1-2 minutes
- Thickly Sliced Bacon: 2-3 minutes
- Crisp Bacon: Cook for an additional 30-60 seconds
- Chewy Bacon: Cook for a shorter amount of time
Tips
- Use a Microwave-Safe Plate: It’s essential to use a microwave-safe plate to prevent the bacon from burning.
- Avoid Overlapping Slices: Overlapping slices can cause uneven cooking.
- Drain the Bacon: Draining the bacon after cooking will help remove excess grease.
- Cook in Batches: If you have a large amount of bacon to cook, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the microwave.
Troubleshooting
- Bacon is Not Crispy: If the bacon is not crispy enough, microwave for a few seconds longer.
- Bacon is Burnt: If the bacon is burnt, it was cooked for too long. Reduce the cooking time next time.
- Bacon is Soggy: If the bacon is soggy, it was not drained properly. Drain the bacon on paper towels after cooking.
Safety Precautions
- Never microwave bacon wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Do not leave the microwave unattended while cooking bacon.
- Allow the cooked bacon to cool slightly before handling it.
Final Thoughts: Mastering the Art of Microwaving Raw Bacon
Microwaving raw bacon is a convenient method to cook it quickly and easily. By following the instructions and tips outlined in this guide, you can cook perfectly crispy or chewy bacon every time. Remember to use a microwave-safe plate, drain the bacon after cooking, and microwave in batches if necessary. With a little practice, you’ll become a master of microwaving raw bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I microwave bacon without paper towels?
A: No, it’s not recommended to microwave bacon without paper towels as it can cause the bacon to splatter and make a mess.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from splattering in the microwave?
A: Use a microwave-safe bacon tray or cover the bacon with a paper towel before microwaving.
Q: Can I microwave frozen raw bacon?
A: Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Start with 1-2 minutes for thinly sliced bacon and 2-3 minutes for thickly sliced bacon. Check the bacon after each minute and continue microwaving until cooked to your desired crispiness.
