Country Fried Floured Bacon is a Southern classic that takes regular bacon to the next level by coating it in seasoned flour and frying it to crispy perfection. The flour coating gives the bacon an irresistible crunch and extra flavor, making it the perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. This simple yet indulgent recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- **Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Hot sauce
- Maple syrup
- Honey
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Flour Coating
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to combine.
Step 2: Coat the Bacon
- Pat the bacon slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the flour coating stick better.
- Dredge each slice of bacon in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small pinch of flour into it—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Step 4: Fry the Bacon
- Carefully place the floured bacon slices into the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Fry the bacon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the bacon halfway through cooking.
Step 5: Drain the Bacon
- Once the bacon is crispy and cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the country fried floured bacon hot and crispy, either on its own or alongside your favorite breakfast items like eggs, biscuits, or pancakes.
- For added flavor, drizzle the bacon with hot sauce, maple syrup, or honey.
Cook Notes
- Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it holds up well during frying and retains its juiciness.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If the oil gets too hot, the flour coating will burn before the bacon is fully cooked.
- Bacon Crispiness: The cooking time may vary depending on how crispy you like your bacon. Adjust the time accordingly for softer or crispier bacon.
Variations
- Spicy Bacon: Add extra cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicier version.
- Herbed Bacon: Mix dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour mixture for an herby twist on this classic recipe.
- Sweet and Savory: After frying, drizzle the bacon with maple syrup or honey for a sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake the bacon instead of frying it?
Yes, for a less greasy version, you can bake the floured bacon. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated bacon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon, but it may cook faster than regular bacon, so be sure to keep an eye on it. The texture will also be slightly different.
How do I store leftover fried bacon?
Store any leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain the crispiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Country Fried Floured Bacon is a deliciously crispy and flavorful twist on traditional bacon, making it a perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch. With its crunchy coating and savory flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for bacon lovers. Serve it up with your favorite sides or enjoy it on its own for a truly indulgent treat