Question

How do you cook bacon in a microwave oven without leaving grease on everything else in the kitchen or on yourself?

Answer 1

Cooking bacon in a microwave can be a convenient and less messy alternative to stovetop frying. Here's a step-by-step guide to cook bacon in a microwave oven while minimizing grease splatter:

1. Preparation: Lay out the bacon strips on a microwave-safe plate. It's best to use a microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe paper towels to prevent grease splatter. Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe bacon cooker or a bacon-specific microwave tray with a lid.

2. Covering the bacon: If you're using a microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe paper towels, place them over the bacon slices to create a barrier that will help contain the grease. Ensure the bacon is entirely covered.

3. Microwaving: Microwave the bacon on high power for short intervals, typically starting with 30 seconds to 1 minute per slice, depending on the thickness of the bacon and your microwave's wattage. It's better to start with shorter cooking times to avoid overcooking.

4. Checking and draining: After each interval, check the bacon for doneness. Use oven mitts or a microwave-safe utensil to carefully lift the cover or paper towels, and check if the bacon has reached your desired level of crispiness. If there is a significant amount of accumulated grease, carefully drain it into a container, being cautious not to spill or splatter.

5. Repeat if necessary: If the bacon isn't fully cooked yet, continue microwaving in short intervals until it reaches your preferred level of crispiness. Drain excess grease as needed.

6. Let it cool: Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, allow it to cool on a plate lined with paper towels or on a wire rack to remove any additional grease.

7. Dispose of the grease properly: Do not pour bacon grease down the sink, as it can solidify and clog your pipes. Instead, let the grease cool and solidify, then dispose of it in a sealed container or trash bag.

By using a microwave-safe cover, paper towels, or a bacon-specific microwave tray with a lid, you can minimize the grease splatter in your microwave and keep your kitchen and yourself cleaner while cooking bacon. However, it's essential to remain cautious and handle hot bacon and grease with care to avoid burns or spills.