Cook the bacon by placing it on a cold skillet or the flat side of a griddle. Heat the pan to medium and fry the bacon, turning it occasionally, until it reaches your desired crispness. Alternatively, you can cook the bacon in the oven or broiler. Once cooked, place the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels. Pour the bacon fat into a heatproof glass measuring cup to reserve for later. Wipe the skillet or griddle clean with a paper towel; washing it is not necessary. Chop bacon.