A.K.A

back bacon

What is it?

More like ham than bacon, Canadian bacon is a cured, lightly smoked pork loin—much leaner than regular bacon, which comes from pork belly. It’s neat, cylindrical shape makes it an ideal choice for eggs Benedict and sandwiches. It’s also a good option for adding a slightly smoky, meaty flavor to dishes without adding a lot of extra fat.

Don’t have it?

Bacon, pancetta, or ham can stand in.

How to choose:

Look for Canadian bacon in the meat section near other smoked pork products like ham hocks (it’s not usually displayed near the regular bacon). It may be sold in a log or sliced and shingled in vacuum-sealed packages.

How to prep:

Because Canadian bacon is cured and smoked, it can be eaten like ham without further cooking, but it’s better if heated first by sautéeing, grilling, or baking.

How to store:

Store well-wrapped and refrigerated.

Cross Reference

Bacon

Recipes

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  Recipe

  Classic Eggs Benedict

  The key to this brunch classic is delicious simplicity: poached fresh eggs, Canadian bacon, toasted English muffins, and an authentic hollandaise sauce. Eggs Benedict can be intimidating for a first-timer,…

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  Recipe

  Five-Treasure Fried Rice

  This recipe makes good use of leftover broccoli stalks, but its easily adaptable, so feel free to substitute other vegetables you might have in the fridge—asparagus, zucchini, peas, mushrooms, bok choy, bean sprouts,…

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  Recipe

  Corn Sauté with Canadian Bacon, Potatoes & Peppers

  Canadian bacon and potatoes make this corn sauté hearty enough to stand alone as a light main course, but it also makes a wonderful side dish or a zesty bed…

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  Recipe

  Chive & Gruyère Omelet