Bacon is a satisfying breakfast staple for many, and is commonly found in continental breakfast buffets in hotels served alongside sausages and eggs. It is also popular as an ingredient, a topping, and even as a condiment in foods such as sandwiches, sauces, pizzas, salads, and soups. However, the well-loved traditional bacon, which is made out of pork, is often left out of breakfast buffets and many other dishes and restaurants in Southeast Asia out of religious sensitivity.
The good news is that there are halal poultry bacon alternatives to consider when preparing a bacon dish. Swapping out traditional bacon in any recipe for these options can also significantly reduce the calories, cholesterol, and fat content of the dish, serving up a healthier version.
Turkey Bacon
Turkey bacon is probably the most common substitute for traditional bacon. While comparable servings of traditional bacon may contain more nutrients such as protein, zinc, and choline; for dieters, turkey bacon definitely wins out with fewer calories and less fat1. Try using turkey bacon in a salad alongside shredded Brussels sprouts and spinach for an appetizing take on this alternative.
Chicken Bacon
Chicken bacon is by far a healthier choice over traditional pork bacon as it contains less fat and calories. It might also contain more protein per strip than pork bacon (depending on the cut) as chicken is a naturally leaner meat. And if sodium intake is a concern, diners will be happy to know that it might take less salt to cure chicken than pork bacon, making it a better choice for those watching their blood pressure2.
Remember to pay close attention when preparing recipes using chicken bacon; due to its lower fat content and marbling, it is more prone to being burnt or overcooked.
Duck Bacon
Duck bacon is made from thinly sliced smoked duck breast cut thinly lengthwise, and is leaner than the pork belly used in traditional bacon. Duck bacon is salty and full-flavored, and is distinctive enough to be enjoyed on its own, but can also complement other milder flavors in a dish. As with other duck products, beware of overcooking duck bacon. Additionally, as duck meat does not turn crispy with longer cooking times, it works ideally with hors d’oeuvres and other recipes involving bacon-wrapped ingredients such as chicken breasts and scallops.
References:
1 Prevention (2014). Which is healthier: pork bacon vs turkey bacon? [online] Available at: Which Is Healthier: Pork Bacon vs. Turkey Bacon
2 WiseGeek (2016). What is chicken bacon? [online] Available at: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-chicken-bacon.htm