Oh no! You've accidentally left your bacon cooking for a little too long, and now it's burnt. Don't worry, all hope is not lost! While burnt bacon may not be ideal, there are plenty of creative and delicious ways to repurpose it rather than tossing it in the trash. In this guide, we'll explore some fantastic ideas on what to do with burnt bacon. Let's get started!
Crumbled burnt bacon can be salvaged and transformed into crispy bacon bits. Finely chop the burnt bacon into small pieces and cook them in a pan until they become extra crispy. These homemade bacon bits can be stored in an airtight container and used as a topping for salads, soups, baked potatoes, or even scrambled eggs.
Burnt bacon can be transformed into a flavorful additive known as bacon salt. Grind the burnt bacon in a food processor or coffee grinder until it becomes a fine powder. Combine it with sea salt or kosher salt to make your very own bacon-infused seasoning. This bacon salt can be a fantastic addition to any dish that needs a hint of smoky, salty goodness.
If you're feeling adventurous, turn your burnt bacon into a mouthwatering bacon jam. Cook the burnt bacon until it crumbles, then combine it with caramelized onions, brown sugar, vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup. Let it simmer until it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency. Bacon jam can be used as a spread on sandwiches, burgers, or as a condiment with cheese and crackers.
Even burnt bacon still possesses some tasty flavors that can be extracted through simmering. Place the burnt bacon in a large pot, cover it with water, and add some aromatics such as onion, garlic, and herbs. Simmer the mixture for a few hours to create a rich bacon stock. This stock can be used as a base for soups, stews, or as a flavor enhancer when cooking vegetables.
A classic Italian pasta dish, carbonara, can easily be adapted to utilize your burnt bacon. Cook spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic and shallots in olive oil, then add your crumbled burnt bacon. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water, and toss it in the pan with the bacon. Beat some eggs with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, then mix it into the pasta, ensuring the heat from the pasta cooks the raw eggs. Serve with additional cheese and black pepper.
Add a twist to your regular butter by infusing it with the smoky flavor of burnt bacon. Mash the burnt bacon into a fine crumble and mix it thoroughly with softened unsalted butter. Roll the mixture into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm. This bacon-flavored butter can be sliced and used to spread onto toast, melt over grilled meats, or toss with roasted vegetables.
Transform your burnt bacon into savory bread crumbs to add a crunchy and smoky touch to various dishes. Toast the burnt bacon until it's completely dry. Blend it in a food processor until it forms fine crumbs. Mix it with regular bread crumbs and store the mixture in an airtight container. Use these bacon-infused bread crumbs as a coating for chicken, fish, or vegetables, or sprinkle them over macaroni and cheese for an added flavor boost.
Give your cooking oils a bacon-infused twist. Whether it's vegetable oil, olive oil, or even coconut oil, place a few pieces of burnt bacon in a bottle and cover them with the oil of your choice. Let it sit for a few weeks to allow the flavors to meld together. This bacon-infused oil can be used to add a smoky essence to salad dressings, sautés, or drizzled over roasted potatoes.
Remember, even if you accidentally burn your bacon, it doesn't mean you have to throw it away. With these clever ideas, you can transform burnt bacon into tasty additions that will enhance various dishes. Give them a try and discover the incredible potential hidden within that once-charred bacon!
Fox Heights pub and grill shop