Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game and experience the incredible flavor of homemade bacon? Forget store-bought – this dry-cured bacon recipe will transform your kitchen into a charcuterie haven. Making your own bacon is easier than you think, and the reward is unbelievably delicious, perfectly crisp bacon, bursting with savory flavor. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, perfect for those seeking delicious dishes and best recipes. It’s a truly rewarding experience that will impress even the most seasoned cooks. It's also a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, as you can use it in countless recipes!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork belly, skin scored (preferably with a good layer of fat)
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, coarsely cracked
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Ziploc bag or shallow dish
- Meat thermometer
- Rack for curing (optional, but recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Belly
Begin by scoring the pork belly skin. This helps render the fat evenly during the cooking process. Make shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart, creating a crosshatch pattern. This is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy skin.
Step 2: The Cure
In a large bowl, combine the salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and allspice. Rub this mixture generously all over the scored pork belly, ensuring every inch is coated evenly. This is where the magic happens, creating a flavorful cure that penetrates the meat.
Step 3: Curing the Bacon
Place the cured pork belly in a ziploc bag, removing as much air as possible, or in a shallow dish. Refrigerate for 7-10 days, flipping the belly halfway through. This curing process draws out moisture and infuses the pork belly with flavor.
Step 4: Rinsing and Drying
After 7-10 days, remove the pork belly from the refrigerator. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess cure. Pat it completely dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a crispy skin.
Step 5: Optional: Hanging the Bacon
For optimal results, hang the pork belly in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 days to further dry the surface, aiding in crispiness. If you don't have a suitable space, you can skip this step and proceed to smoking or baking.
Step 6: Smoking or Baking
There are two excellent ways to cook your dry-cured bacon:
- Smoking: Smoking at a low temperature (around 150°F) for 4-6 hours until the internal temperature reaches 150°F will result in smoky, tender bacon.
- Baking: Baking in a low oven (200°F) for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F, is a great alternative if you don't have a smoker. Place the bacon on a rack set over a baking sheet to allow for even cooking and fat rendering.
Step 7: Cooling and Slicing
Once cooked, let the bacon cool completely before slicing. This allows the fat to solidify, making it easier to slice and resulting in crispier bacon. Slice thinly against the grain for optimal texture.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to customize the spice blend to your liking. Add more or less cayenne pepper for heat, experiment with different herbs, or incorporate other spices.
- Different cuts: You can also try this recipe with other pork cuts, such as a pork loin or shoulder, but adjust the curing time accordingly.
- Storage: Store your homemade bacon in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per 3-ounce serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Saturated Fat: 10-15g
- Sodium: High (due to the curing salt)
Enjoy your delicious, homemade dry-cured bacon! It's a fantastic addition to any meal, from a simple breakfast to a more complex dish. This easy recipe is a testament to the wonders of homemade cooking, resulting in a truly satisfying culinary experience. It's a recipe you'll want to revisit time and again.