🍳 Pan-frying
Cook Bacon in Beef Tallow
Starting bacon in a little tallow prevents sticking and helps render the bacon's own fat more evenly. The result is perfectly flat, evenly crispy bacon every time.
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Temperature
325-350°F (medium heat)
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Cook Time
8-12 minutes
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Tallow Amount
1 tablespoon (for starting)
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Method
pan-frying
What You'll Need
✓
cast iron skillet or cold pan
✓
tongs Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Start with cold pan for thick-cut bacon (or medium heat for thin)
2
Add small amount of tallow to prevent initial sticking
3
Lay bacon strips in single layer, not touching
4
Cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally
5
Bacon will render its own fat as it cooks
6
Remove when desired crispness is reached
7
Drain on paper towels
8
Save the rendered fat for future cooking!
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Pro Tips
- ✓ Cold pan start = more evenly cooked bacon
- ✓ Low and slow = less shrinkage
- ✓ Thick-cut takes longer but stays meatier
- ✓ The rendered bacon fat mixed with tallow is liquid gold
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Heat too high (burns before fat renders)
- ✗ Overcrowding the pan
- ✗ Not saving the drippings
- ✗ Removing too soon or too late
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should I cook bacon in beef tallow? ▼
For pan-frying bacon in beef tallow, heat your pan to 325-350°F (medium heat). This temperature ensures proper browning without burning.
How long does it take to cook bacon in beef tallow? ▼
Bacon typically takes 8-12 minutes when cooking in beef tallow using the pan-frying method.
Why is beef tallow good for cooking bacon? ▼
Starting bacon in a little tallow prevents sticking and helps render the bacon's own fat more evenly. The result is perfectly flat, evenly crispy bacon every time.
New to cooking with beef tallow?
Learn all about this versatile cooking fat and how to render your own at home.
