Hickory Smoked Bacon

One Pound Yields:  Typically, Thin Slice about 35 strips.  Regular Slice about 16 to 20 slices. Thick slice about 12 to 16 slices. 

Bacon can be cooked in a few different ways, including on the stove, in the oven, or in the microwave:

• Stove

  Start with a cold skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until it's crisp and brown, about 2–4 minutes per side, depending on desired crispiness. If you add water, it'll help keep the stove less messy and take about 5 minutes to boil off before you can lower the heat and finish cooking.

• Oven

  Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and arrange the bacon strips in a single layer. Put the baking sheet in a cold oven and then heat to 400°F. Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the bacon is as crisp as you like it. Thin-sliced bacon might take 5–6 minutes longer, and thick-cut bacon might take 8–10 minutes longer. When it's done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

• Microwave

  Put the bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel and cover it with a couple more paper towels. Microwave on high for about 1–6 minutes per slice, depending on desired crispiness. The paper towels will absorb excess fat and help with cooking.