I remember the first time I tried cooking fatback in the microwave. I had always heard that it was a quick and easy way to cook this delicious and flavorful cut of pork. Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that this simple experiment would end up becoming one of my go-to methods for cooking fatback. Today, I want to share with you my quick and easy guide on how to cook fatback in the microwave.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we proceed any further, let’s make sure you have everything you need to cook fatback in the microwave. Here’s a list of ingredients you will need:
– Fatback:
The star of the show! Fatback is a cut of pork that comes from the back or sides of the pig. It’s known for its high fat content, which makes it incredibly flavorful when cooked.
– Salt and Pepper:
These basic seasonings will enhance the taste of the fatback.
– Microwave-Safe Plate:
You’ll need a plate that can safely go in the microwave without any risk of melting or warping.
– Paper Towels:
To absorb any excess grease that may be released during the cooking process.
Prepare the Fatback
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the fatback for cooking:
1. Rinse the Fatback:
Take the fatback and give it a good rinse under cold water. This will help remove any impurities and excess salt that may be lingering on the surface.
2. Pat it Dry:
Using paper towels, pat the fatback dry. Any excess moisture on the surface can interfere with the cooking process.
3. Season to Taste:
Now, it’s time to season the fatback. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides, making sure to coat it generously.
Cooking Process
With the fatback prepared, it’s time to start cooking!
1. Place the Fatback on the Plate:
Take the microwave-safe plate and place the seasoned fatback on it, fat side up. The fat side should be facing up to allow the fat to render and baste the meat as it cooks.
2. Microwave on High:
Set your microwave to high power and cook the fatback for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn.
3. Flip and Microwave Again:
After the initial cook time, carefully flip the fatback over using tongs or a fork. Return it to the microwave and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Check for Crispiness:
At this point, your fatback should be starting to crisp up nicely. However, microwaves vary in power, so it’s essential to keep an eye on it. If you want it even crispier, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until you achieve your desired level of crispiness.
5. Let it Rest:
Once the fatback has reached your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the microwave. Allow it to rest on a paper towel for a few minutes to absorb any excess grease.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your fatback is perfectly cooked and crispy, it’s time to savor this delectable dish. Here are a few serving suggestions to make the most of your creation:
– As a Side Dish:
Fatback is incredibly versatile and makes for an excellent side dish. Serve it alongside eggs, grits, or beans for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
– In Sandwiches or Wraps:
Take your fatback to the next level by adding it to sandwiches or wraps. Its rich and savory flavor will elevate any sandwich or wrap from ordinary to extraordinary.
– Crumbled as a Topping:
Crumble the crispy fatback and use it as a delicious and crunchy topping for salads, soups, or even pizza. Its unique taste and texture will add a delightful twist to your favorite dishes.
In conclusion, cooking fatback in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this flavorful cut of pork. By following this simple guide, you can achieve crispy and delicious fatback in no time. So go ahead, give it a try, and let your taste buds thank you for this culinary adventure!