Bacon Duet

Sweet and Spicy Candied Bacon:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place a wire rack on a foil lined baking sheet. Arrange the bacon on the wire rack and sprinkle with the cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper and black pepper. Lightly pat the brown sugar on top of the bacon to create a thin layer. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the brown sugar has melted and the bacon is crisp.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes. Using tongs, transfer the bacon to a parchment lined baking sheet and allow to cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Honey-Bourbon Bacon:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine the honey and bourbon in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Lay the bacon on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes. Brush with some of the honey-bourbon syrup. Continue roasting until deeply caramelized and crispy, another 10 to 15 minutes–the bacon will really crisp as it cools. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon pepper and serve.