Bacon chops are a cut of bacon that will be well known and loved by bacon lovers. But perhaps you may be one of those people who are unsure exactly what they are and how best to cook them.
They are sourced from the same cut of pork loin. And just like our regular rashers of bacon, this pork loin has been cured using the same traditional cure. The difference between a rasher and a chop is in the slicing. Bacon chops are sliced thicker, ours are typically 1/2 inch thick. What this means is more or the delicious taste of bacon per slice. A bacon chop can be a tasty and more cost-effective switch up from a similar sized beef steak. Or if we compare it to a pork chop, also cut from the same loin of pork, they have a much milder flavour and take longer to cook. A pork chop is also prone to being overcooked and somewhat dry. In comparison the curing of the bacon results in a steak that is quicker to cook and full of flavour.
So, if you have never cooked a bacon chop before, here’s a quick ‘how to’ as an introduction to cooking this flavourful cut. Whether you decide to make it for a substantial lunch, or dinner. You may also choose to switch your regular breakfast rasher for a bacon chop as part of your cooked breakfast.
For the most even cooking, like any cut of meat, prepare it first by bringing it to room temperature. As a small cut of meat, this can be achieved in a few minutes.
Heat your frying pan to a high temperature.
Using a sharp knife, make cuts into the fat at approximately 1.5cm between without cutting the meat. Then using tongs hold the chop on its side in the frying pan, to render the fat. Pressing the fat against the pan for 2-3 minutes until crisp. Then add a little oil to the pan and fry over a medium/high heat for 4-5minutes each side, until cooked and golden brown.
Remove from the pan and let the cooked chop rest for 5 minutes before serving.
We have the perfect summery recipe for you to try, our Grilled Bacon Chops with Homemade BBQ Beans.
Bacon chops are perfect for freezing. Freeze our unopened pack, or if open wrap well and place in a freezer bag, making sure to squeeze the extra air out. Label with the date and store for 1-3 months for the best flavour and quality.
To thaw, allow them to defrost overnight in the fridge and used within 24hrs of defrosting.
Shop our bacon chops here.
