Some food researchers have noted that humans have an innate craving for foods that contain three basic ingredients: salt, sugar and fat. Bacon, of course, has copious amounts of salt (sodium) and fats — and when combined with maple syrup or any other sweetener, you've hit a food trifecta.

So apparently, a sheep-pig exists. Otherwise known as the Mangalitsa, this animal was first bred as an experiment in the nineteenth century to produce more lard-laced meat, and the result was a pig with the body of a porker and the curly-haired coat of a sheep.

This adaptation of French onion soup boasts bacon and a generous measure of herbs, in addition to the classic cheese-topped toasts. Enjoy it on a cold day, accompanied by a glass of full-bodied ale...

Here, we've taken a bowl of nuts to the next level by adding rich maple syrup and savory bacon. For a party-worthy mix, splurge on high-quality bacon, and buy some fresh raw nuts. Use just one type...

The subtle crunch of cornmeal gives johnnycakes appealing texture and a bit of heft. Our version, embellished with crisp bits of bacon and sharp cheddar cheese and served with honey or syrup, makes a delightful sweet-and-salty breakfast treat.