Chef Will Murray of Fallow restaurant has revealed a simple oven technique that guarantees perfectly crispy streaky bacon every time, with the addition of demerara sugar midway through cooking. The method, shared by the chef, offers an alternative to frying pan, air fryer, or microwave cooking, promising consistent results from edge to edge.
The Oven Method for Evenly Cooked Bacon
According to Murray, baking bacon in the oven at 180°C for a total of 10 minutes produces evenly crispy strips. He recommends using streaky bacon for its higher fat content, stating that "fat means flavour." The process begins by placing the rashers directly on a baking tray without foil or greaseproof paper, as the bacon's own fat prevents sticking. After five minutes, much of the fat has rendered, and the bacon is turned over.
Adding Sugar for Extra Crispiness and Sweetness
At the turning point, Murray scatters demerara sugar over the rashers. The sugar not only enhances crispiness but also adds an "awesome sweetness." However, he cautions against using too much sugar, as an overly candied result can make the bacon unpleasantly tough. The bacon is then returned to the oven for another five minutes at the same temperature.
Results and Advantages
Upon removal, the chef demonstrated that the edges become "really nice and crispy," asserting that no alternative method can rival this oven technique. The approach allows for cooking large quantities simultaneously and offers greater control over the outcome. Murray's method has been praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, making it a go-to for breakfast or meal prepping.
