Cooking bacon in the microwave can be a quick and convenient method, but you must take proper precautions to avoid any risk of fire. Here's a step-by-step guide to safely cook bacon in the microwave:
Choose the right microwave-safe dish: Use a microwave-safe plate or a microwave-safe bacon tray. Avoid using plates or dishes that have metal trim or decorations, as these can cause sparks and fire in the microwave.
Line the dish with paper towels or microwave-safe parchment paper: Lay a couple of layers of paper towels or microwave-safe parchment paper on the plate. This helps absorb excess grease and prevents splattering inside the microwave.
Arrange the bacon slices on the plate: Place the bacon slices side by side on the paper towels or parchment paper. Ensure they don't overlap, as this will help the bacon cook more evenly.
Cover with another layer of paper towels: Lay another layer of paper towels or microwave-safe parchment paper on top of the bacon slices. This will further help contain the grease and reduce splattering.
Microwave in short intervals: Cook the bacon in the microwave in short intervals (e.g., 30-60 seconds) at medium power (50-70% power level). Microwaves vary in power, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Check for doneness: After each interval, check the bacon's progress. If it's not cooked to your desired level of crispiness, continue microwaving in short intervals until it reaches your preferred texture.
Remove and drain excess grease: Once the bacon is cooked, carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel, as it might be hot. Use tongs or a fork to transfer the bacon to another plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining grease.
Dispose of the grease properly: Allow the grease to cool down, then dispose of it in a safe manner. Do not pour bacon grease down the drain, as it can solidify and cause plumbing issues.
By following these steps, you can cook bacon in the microwave without the risk of it catching fire. However, always keep a close eye on the cooking process and be cautious when handling hot dishes or bacon to avoid burns or accidents.