Bacon is made from pork belly, which is the fatty part of a pig's belly. It's cured with salt and other seasonings, then smoked or air-dried to give it that irresistible flavor. The result? Crispy, savory goodness that adds a burst of flavor to everything it touches.

For perfectly crispy bacon, start with a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally until golden brown and delicious. To prevent bacon from curling while cooking, gently press it down with a spatula as it cooks.

Save the bacon grease for cooking other foods, it adds amazing flavor to dishes like scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, and even popcorn. Store it in the refrigerator or freeze leftover bacon grease in ice cube trays for easy portioning and convenient use in future recipes.

Cut your bacon slices in half before cooking for more manageable portions and faster cooking time. Cook bacon in the oven on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess fat to drain away for crispier results.

Buy bacon in bulk and freeze it in individual portions for long-term storage and cost savings. Look for sales or discounts on bacon at your local grocery store or butcher shop. Consider making your own bacon at home, it's easy, fun, and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.