Grilled Canadian Bacon
Tender Canadian bacon glazed with orange juice, brown sugar, and cloves offers a smoky, sweet flavor ideal for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Score the bacon with a knife point in a 1/2-inch grill pattern.
- Place the meat on the grill about 4 inches from the coals.
- Baste with a mixture of orange juice, brown sugar, and ground cloves.
- Cook for 40 to 45 minutes, turning often.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using a wood chip smoker box on the grill. If you want to add a bit of heat, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper into the basting mixture. You can substitute apple juice for a different fruity note or use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for added depth. Scoring the bacon not only enhances the appearance but also helps the marinade penetrate better.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Canadian bacon makes for a hearty addition to a breakfast platter, especially when paired with eggs and toast. It also complements savory dishes like Mildred'S Cowboy Beans or can be served in sandwiches. For a refreshing side, consider a citrus salad or grilled vegetables. This dish pairs beautifully with Nora'S Southport Breakfast Shrimp for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled Canadian bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals. Avoid reheating on high heat, as this can dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Canadian Bacon contains roughly 316 calories, with 48g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (97% of the Daily Value) and potassium (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1704mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular bacon instead of Canadian bacon?
While you can use regular bacon, it will require different cooking times and methods. Regular bacon is thinner and fattier, which may lead to a longer cooking time and a different texture. Canadian bacon has a firmer consistency that holds up well on the grill, so stick with it for the best results.
What type of grill works best for this recipe?
A charcoal grill is ideal for grilling Canadian bacon as it provides a smoky flavor that complements the dish. However, a gas grill can also work well—just ensure you achieve a good heat level. If using a gas grill, preheat it for at least 10 minutes to get the right sear on the bacon.
How can I tell when the Canadian bacon is done cooking?
Canadian bacon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. It should be slightly caramelized on the outside and heated through. Remember to turn it frequently to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).