Bacon is a beloved food item that many people enjoy. Its crispy texture, smoky flavor, and versatility make it a popular choice for various dishes. While there are many ways to prepare bacon, dry-curing is a method that yields exceptional results. In this article, we will explore the best easy dry-cured bacon recipe that you can try at home.
Dry-curing bacon involves coating the pork belly with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices, then allowing it to cure for several days. This process draws out moisture, intensifies the flavor, and helps preserve the meat. The result is a delicious, slightly salty bacon that is perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or adding a burst of flavor to any dish.
To make this easy dry-cured bacon recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of pork belly
– 1 cup of kosher salt
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of black pepper
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
2. Place the pork belly in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Rub the salt mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it cure for 7-10 days. Turn the bacon over every day to ensure even curing.
4. After the curing period, remove the bacon from the refrigerator and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels.
5. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the bacon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drippings.
6. Bake the bacon for approximately 2 hours or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from burning.
7. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on the wire rack for a few minutes. Slice it into thin strips or chop it into small pieces.
Now that you have learned how to make this delicious dry-cured bacon, let’s answer some commonly asked questions:
1. How long can I store dry-cured bacon?
Dry-cured bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use regular table salt instead of kosher salt?
Kosher salt is preferred for its larger crystals, which help draw out moisture more effectively. However, you can use regular table salt if that’s all you have on hand.
3. Can I add other spices to the curing mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your bacon.
4. Can I use this dry-curing method for other cuts of pork?
Yes, you can use this method to dry-cure other cuts of pork, such as pork loin or pork shoulder.
5. Can I smoke the dry-cured bacon instead of baking it?
Yes, smoking the bacon after dry-curing will add a wonderful smoky flavor. Follow the instructions of your smoker for best results.
6. Can I use this recipe for turkey bacon?
This recipe is specifically designed for pork belly. However, you can try adapting it for turkey bacon by adjusting the curing time and temperature.
7. Can I use this dry-cured bacon in recipes that call for regular bacon?
Absolutely! Dry-cured bacon can be used interchangeably with regular bacon in any recipe. It will add a unique flavor profile to your dishes.
In conclusion, this easy dry-cured bacon recipe allows you to make delicious, flavorful bacon at home. Experiment with different spices and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own cured bacon. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as an ingredient in your favorite recipes, this homemade bacon is sure to impress.