What is Rindless Bacon? A Complete Guide

Rindless bacon has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional bacon in recent years. But what exactly is rindless bacon and how does it differ from regular bacon? In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this leaner, healthier bacon option.

What Is Rindless Bacon?

Rindless bacon, also referred to as back bacon, comes from the loin of the pig, in the back section near the rear legs It is a rounder, leaner cut of bacon that does not have the fatty rind attached

Traditional bacon contains streaks of fat running through it and has a tougher rind on the edges. Rindless bacon provides the bacon flavor without the high fat content and chewy rind. It offers a meatier texture and is easier to cook evenly than streaky bacon.

How Is Rindless Bacon Made?

To produce rindless bacon, first the rind or skin is removed from the cut of pork, leaving just the boneless loin meat. Then the pork loin is cured by soaking it in a brine solution, often containing salt, sugars, spices, and preservatives like sodium nitrite.

The pork loin is cured for several days up to a week to absorb the flavors and preserve the meat. Finally, it is smoked over natural hardwoods to impart that iconic smoky bacon flavor and aroma. The end result is delicious rindless bacon ready for cooking and eating!

Nutrition Profile of Rindless Bacon

Rindless bacon is often considered a healthier choice compared to regular bacon. Since it comes from the leaner back loin area, it contains less fat, fewer calories, and less saturated fat per serving

• Fat: 5 grams in 2 slices rindless bacon vs 13 grams in regular bacon
• Calories: 40 calories in 2 slices rindless vs 104 calories regular
• Saturated Fat: 1.6 grams vs 4.4 grams regular

While still relatively high in sodium, rindless bacon can more easily fit into a low calorie, low fat diet. It provides a good source of protein, vitamins B1 and B2, zinc, and selenium. Overall, rindless bacon offers a lighter meal option without skimping on classic bacon taste.

How to Cook Rindless Bacon

Cooking rindless bacon is simple and quick since it doesn’t need long to render out fat. Here are some easy cooking methods:

• Skillet: Cook rindless bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat for 2-4 minutes per side, until browned and slightly crispy. Drain on paper towels.

• Oven: Place bacon slices on a foil lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. Prop up slices on a cooling rack over the sheet pan so the fat drips away from the bacon as it cooks.

• Microwave: Lay rindless bacon slices between paper towels on a microwave safe plate. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, then flip and microwave 1-2 more minutes. Check for doneness.

Rindless bacon’s leanness makes it prone to drying out if overcooked. Stop cooking just before it’s fully crisped up to stay tender and juicy.

Best Uses for Rindless Bacon

The savory flavor of rindless bacon enhances many dishes. Here are some top ways to put this lean pork product to use:

• Breakfast sandwiches – add bacon, egg, and cheese between an English muffin or biscuit.

• Salads – crumble rindless bacon over spinach, wedge, or Cobb salads.

• Soups – mix bacon pieces into hearty bean or potato soups.

• Pizza – sprinkle rindless bacon crumbles over pizza.

• Bacon jam – fry bacon, then caramelize the pieces in brown sugar and spices.

• Bacon bits – use like a seasoning over pastas, baked potatoes, green beans, etc.

• Wrap veggies – wrap asparagus spears, brussels sprouts, or dates with bacon.

Rindless bacon provides that same bacon oomph to recipes, with a healthy advantage over regular bacon.

Where to Buy Rindless Bacon

Look for rindless bacon at most major supermarkets, sold near the regular breakfast bacon. Popular brands like Oscar Mayer, Smithfield, and Hormel sell rindless bacon varieties. Or pick some up from the butcher counter.

Many specialty and online meat shops also offer rindless bacon. Buying from these retailers allows you to choose from artisanal flavor types like black pepper, maple, applewood smoked, and more.

Rindless bacon costs a few dollars more per pound than standard streaky bacon. However, since you lose less fat in cooking, you may find it provides more servings per package.

Storing and Handling Rindless Bacon

Keep rindless bacon fresh by storing it properly:

• Unopened rindless bacon has a 1 week shelf life from the packaged date.

• Place opened rindless bacon in an airtight container or zip top bag. Press out excess air.

• Store rindless bacon in the coldest part of the fridge, not the door.

• Cook within 5-7 days of opening for peak freshness.

• Freeze extras in freezer bags up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

With proper storage, rindless bacon stays tasty and safe to eat.

How Does Rindless Bacon Differ from Other Bacon-Like Pork?

Rindless bacon has some qualities similar to other pork products like pork belly and Canadian bacon. Here’s how they compare:

• Pork belly – This is the cut of meat regular bacon is made from. Pork belly contains long streaks of fat and has a tight rind around the edges.

• Canadian bacon – This is made from pork loin like rindless bacon but is cut into circular medallions rather than strips. It has a very lean, ham-like texture.

• Rindless bacon – Made from pork loin but keeps the traditional sliced strip shape. It has a round shape, evenly distributed fat, and no tough rind.

Rindless bacon offers bacon flavor in a lower fat, healthier package. Its well-rounded taste and versatility make it a smart alternative to regular bacon. For those looking to reduce fat and calories without sacrificing flavor, rindless bacon can be the perfect solution.

This complete guide covered everything from how rindless bacon is made, its nutrition stats, cooking methods, and substitutions. Now that you know all about this leaner bacon, it’s time to give it a try! Crisp up some rindless bacon for a breakfast or lunch meal and enjoy its savory taste today.