Bellabbs

Yes, you can cook bacon in an instant pot, and it might just become your new favorite method. Forget messy stovetop splatters and unevenly cooked strips. The Instant Pot delivers perfectly cooked bacon, whether you prefer it crispy, chewy, or somewhere in between. This article will explore the various methods for cooking bacon in your Instant Pot, along with tips and tricks for achieving bacon perfection.

Why Cook Bacon in an Instant Pot?

Beyond the obvious benefit of easier cleanup, using an Instant Pot for bacon offers several advantages. The consistent heat distribution ensures even cooking, minimizing burnt edges and undercooked centers. The contained environment also reduces the lingering bacon smell that often permeates the kitchen during traditional stovetop cooking. Plus, it’s a hands-off approach, freeing you up to focus on other breakfast preparations.

Benefits of Instant Pot Bacon

• Even Cooking: Say goodbye to unevenly cooked bacon strips. The Instant Pot’s consistent heat distribution ensures every piece is cooked to perfection.
• Less Mess: No more greasy stovetop splatters! The Instant Pot contains the mess, making cleanup a breeze.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once you set it and forget it, your Instant Pot does all the work, allowing you to multitask in the kitchen.
• Reduced Bacon Smell: While the delicious aroma of bacon is welcome, the lingering smell can be overwhelming. The Instant Pot helps contain the odor.

Perfectly Cooked Instant Pot Bacon

Methods for Cooking Bacon in an Instant Pot

There are a couple of ways to cook bacon in your Instant Pot, each with its own benefits. Let’s explore the two most popular methods:

The Trivet Method

This method involves placing bacon on a trivet inside the Instant Pot. It’s ideal for larger batches and results in crispy bacon with minimal effort.

1. Place a trivet inside your Instant Pot inner pot.
2. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer on the trivet. Avoid overcrowding.
3. Add about a cup of water to the bottom of the pot.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing.
5. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release.
6. Carefully remove the bacon from the Instant Pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

The Air Fryer Lid Method (For Instant Pots with Air Fryer Functionality)

If your Instant Pot has an air fryer lid, this method offers the crispiest results, mimicking traditional pan-fried bacon.

1. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Attach the air fryer lid to your Instant Pot.
3. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes, depending on your desired crispness. Flip the bacon halfway through.

Tips and Tricks for Instant Pot Bacon Success

• Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding the pot prevents even cooking and can lead to soggy bacon. Arrange the bacon in a single layer for best results.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your bacon and desired crispness. Start with the recommended times and adjust as needed.
• Use Quality Bacon: The quality of your bacon will impact the final result. Opt for thicker-cut bacon for better texture and flavor.
• Save the Bacon Grease: Don’t throw away that precious bacon grease! Strain it and store it in the refrigerator for use in other recipes.

“Using the Instant Pot for bacon has revolutionized my breakfast routine. It’s so much easier and the results are consistently delicious,” says renowned chef, Michael Simon.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Bacon

Instant Pot bacon pairs perfectly with classic breakfast staples like eggs, pancakes, and waffles. You can also crumble it and add it to salads, soups, or pasta dishes for a burst of smoky flavor.

“The beauty of Instant Pot bacon is its versatility. It’s a fantastic addition to so many dishes, beyond just breakfast,” says food blogger and recipe developer, Sarah Jones.

Conclusion

So, can you cook bacon in an Instant Pot? Absolutely! Whether you choose the trivet method or the air fryer lid, the Instant Pot offers a convenient and mess-free way to achieve perfectly cooked bacon every time. Experiment with different cooking times and find your preferred level of crispness. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Instant Pot bacon!

FAQ

1. How long does it take to cook bacon in an Instant Pot? Using the trivet method, it takes about 5 minutes on high pressure, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. The air fryer method takes 8-12 minutes.

2. Can I cook a whole package of bacon in an Instant Pot? You can cook a significant amount of bacon in an Instant Pot, but avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. What should I do with the bacon grease? Strain the bacon grease and store it in the refrigerator for use in other recipes.

4. Can I cook other things with the bacon in the Instant Pot? You can experiment with adding other breakfast items, like eggs, to the Instant Pot with the bacon, but be mindful of cooking times.

5. Is Instant Pot bacon healthier than pan-fried bacon? The cooking method doesn’t significantly alter the nutritional content of bacon.

6. Why is my Instant Pot bacon not crispy? Adjust the cooking time or try the air fryer lid method for crispier results.

7. Can I use frozen bacon in the Instant Pot? While you can use frozen bacon, it may require a longer cooking time and might not cook as evenly. Thawing it beforehand is recommended.

“The Instant Pot’s consistent cooking environment ensures perfectly cooked bacon every time, regardless of your preferred crispness,” shares culinary expert, Emily Carter.