Cooking bacon is a beloved ritual for many breakfast lovers. The tantalizing aroma fills the home and sets the perfect mood for a hearty meal. However, the joy of cooking bacon does come with its fair share of challenges, including splattering grease and uneven cooking. Fortunately, the Instant Pot has entered the culinary scene, offering a convenient and time-saving solution. This article will explore the ins and outs of cooking bacon in the Instant Pot, discussing methods, benefits, tips, and recipes that can transform your bacon-making experience.
Understanding the Instant Pot
Before diving into the specifics of cooking bacon, it’s crucial to understand what an Instant Pot is and why it has become a kitchen staple. The Instant Pot is a versatile electric pressure cooker that combines several kitchen appliances into one. It can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and much more, making it perfect for busy individuals seeking to prepare delicious meals quickly.
The Benefits of Cooking Bacon in the Instant Pot
Cooking bacon in the Instant Pot offers several benefits:
- Less Mess: One of the most significant advantages is the reduction in splatter. The Instant Pot’s lid helps contain grease, making clean-up easier.
- Even Cooking: The even heat distribution of the Instant Pot ensures that bacon cooks uniformly without burning in certain areas.
Instant Pot Features You’ll Use for Bacon
When preparing bacon, specific features of the Instant Pot come into play:
- Sauté Function: This option allows you to cook bacon directly in the pot, giving you control over the heat and cooking time.
- Pressure Cooking: While this method isn’t typically used for bacon, it can be used for dishes that incorporate bacon, adding flavor without requiring direct cooking.
How to Cook Bacon in the Instant Pot
Cooking bacon in the Instant Pot can seem intimidating at first, but the process is straightforward. There are two primary methods: the sauté method and the crispy bacon method using the pressure cooker feature. Let’s break these down.
Method 1: Sautéing Bacon in the Instant Pot
This method is the most common and straightforward approach to making bacon in the Instant Pot. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound of thick-cut bacon (adjust based on your needs)
- Optional: Seasonings or herbs for added flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Plug in your Instant Pot and press the “Sauté” button. Allow it to heat for a few minutes.
- Add Bacon: Carefully place strips of bacon in a single layer at the bottom of the pot. Depending on the size of your Instant Pot, you may need to cut the bacon strips in half to fit.
- Cook the Bacon: Allow the bacon to cook for about 5 minutes. Flip the strips over to ensure even cooking. Continue to sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until your desired crispiness is achieved.
- Drain Grease: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease. You may want to drain the grease from the pot if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious, crispy bacon with eggs, in a salad, or as part of your favorite dish.
Method 2: Crispy Bacon Using the Pressure Cooker Feature
While the sauté method is the simplest, you can achieve an incredibly crispy texture with this less conventional method.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound of thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup of water (essential for the pressure cooking process)
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- Set Up a Rack: Place a heatproof rack or trivet inside the pot. This will keep the bacon above the water to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Layer the Bacon: Lay the bacon strips over the rack to ensure they are not submerged in water.
- Seal the Pot: Close the lid and set the pressure valve to “Sealing.”
- Cook: Select the “Pressure Cook” feature and set the time to 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure.
- Crisp the Bacon: Carefully remove the racks with the bacon and place them on a baking sheet. Use a broiler to crisp the bacon further by placing it under the broiler for 2-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Similar to the earlier method, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess grease.
Tips for Perfect Bacon in the Instant Pot
To enhance your bacon-cooking experience, consider the following tips:
Quality Matters
Choose high-quality bacon for the best flavor and texture. Thick-cut bacon generally provides a better outcome than standard cuts.
Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to add spices or seasonings to change the flavor profile of your bacon. While it’s delicious on its own, pepper, maple syrup, or even barbecue sauce can provide a unique twist.
Batch Cooking
If you’re cooking for a crowd or want to prep for the week, consider cooking multiple pounds of bacon at once. Both methods allow for sizeable batches.
Instant Pot Bacon Recipes to Try
In addition to enjoying bacon as a standalone dish, incorporating it into other recipes can elevate your meals. Here are two tempting recipes to inspire you:
1. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken
This flavorful dish is perfect for a dinner that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 pound bacon
- Seasonings: garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Wrap the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts and wrap each in bacon strips, securing them with toothpicks.
- Add to Instant Pot: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken in the Instant Pot and add a cup of chicken broth or water.
- Pressure Cook: Set to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
- Broil If Desired: For additional crispiness, broil for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy with your favorite sides.
2. Bacon and Potato Soup
A comforting soup perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon, chopped
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Seasonings: salt, pepper, and thyme
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Use the sauté function to cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and drain excess grease but leave about a tablespoon in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onions and cook until translucent.
- Pressure Cook: Add potatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings, and seal the lid. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Blend and Serve: Release pressure and add heavy cream. Use an immersion blender for a creamy consistency. Top with reserved bacon before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cooking bacon in the Instant Pot opens up a realm of possibilities for those seeking a hassle-free bacon-cooking method. Whether you opt for the sauté method or the innovative pressure cooking technique, the Instant Pot can help you create incredibly delicious bacon. Plus, with the versatility of this cooking device, you can explore numerous bacon-infused recipes to tantalize your taste buds. So next time you crave that crispy, delicious bacon without the mess, don’t hesitate to reach for your Instant Pot!
Can you cook bacon in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook bacon in the Instant Pot. While the Instant Pot is primarily known for its pressure cooking capabilities, it also has a sauté function that allows you to cook bacon effectively. This method provides a quick and convenient way to crisp up your bacon without the mess typically associated with frying it in a pan.
The sauté feature allows you to achieve various textures of bacon, from chewy to crispy, depending on your personal preference. With the sealed environment of the Instant Pot, you can cook multiple strips at once, making it a great option for meal prep or Sunday breakfasts with family.
What is the best method for cooking bacon in the Instant Pot?
The best method for cooking bacon in the Instant Pot involves using the sauté function. Begin by cutting your bacon strips into smaller pieces, making them easier to handle and fit into the pot. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and allow it to heat up for a couple of minutes before adding your bacon.
Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Once cooked, you can use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. If you want to get creative, consider using the bacon grease left in the pot to sauté other ingredients, adding flavor to your dish.
How long does it take to cook bacon in the Instant Pot?
Cooking bacon in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes, depending on your preferred level of crispiness and the thickness of the bacon. Thin-cut bacon may cook quicker, whereas thick-cut bacon could require a little extra time. It’s important to keep an eye on it as it cooks and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
If you’re using the pressure cooking function, which is less common for bacon due to the desired texture, it may take about 15 minutes, including time for the pot to come to pressure. However, most people prefer the sauté mode for bacon since it allows for better texture control and avoids boiling the bacon in its own fat.
Can you stack bacon in the Instant Pot?
While it is possible to stack bacon in the Instant Pot, it is recommended to lay it out in a single layer for the best results. Stacking may result in uneven cooking, as the bacon on the bottom may become overly greasy while the top strips remain chewy. If you want to cook a larger quantity, consider cooking in batches to ensure that each strip gets optimal exposure to the heat.
If you decide to stack bacon, be aware that the cooking time might increase slightly, as the heat may not circulate as freely around the multiple layers. Make sure to flip the bacon halfway through the cooking process to promote even crisping across all layers if you choose this method.
What should I do with the grease left after cooking bacon in the Instant Pot?
After cooking bacon in the Instant Pot, you will likely have a considerable amount of grease left in the pot. Rather than discarding it, consider saving the bacon grease for cooking other dishes. Bacon grease adds a rich flavor to recipes such as scrambled eggs, sautéed vegetables, or used as a base for gravies and sauces.
To safely store the grease, allow it to cool slightly, then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a month, or in the freezer for longer shelf life. Be cautious not to store it while still hot, as it can cause the container to melt or crack.
Is cooking bacon in the Instant Pot healthier than frying?
Cooking bacon in the Instant Pot can be considered a healthier option compared to traditional frying. When using the sauté function, some of the excess fat can be drained away, resulting in lower fat content in the final dish. Additionally, since the Instant Pot is a sealed environment when in pressure mode, there is no splattering of grease, reducing mess and the risk of burns.
Moreover, using the Instant Pot allows you to control portion sizes and choose how much bacon you want to consume in a single serving. While bacon is still considered a processed meat and should be consumed in moderation, using the Instant Pot can provide a somewhat less fatty way to enjoy this favorite breakfast item.