Unveiling the secret: how to achieve restaurant-worthy pork belly bacon at home

Indulge in the delectable flavors of homemade pork belly bacon, a culinary masterpiece that will transform your breakfast routine into an extraordinary experience. With its irresistible crispiness, smoky aroma, and tantalizing taste, this pork belly bacon recipe will become your go-to choice for a hearty and satisfying morning meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pork belly, approximately 3-4 pounds
• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Belly:

• Remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. Score the skin of the pork belly in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.

2. Create the Dry Rub:

• In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.

3. Season the Pork Belly:

• Generously rub the dry rub all over the pork belly, covering both the skin and the meat. Place the pork belly in a large baking dish or roasting pan.

4. Refrigerate and Cure:

• Cover the pork belly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12-24 hours, or up to 3 days. This process will help draw out moisture and enhance the flavor of the bacon.

5. Remove from Refrigerator and Dry:

• Remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the skin crisp up during cooking.

6. Roast the Pork Belly:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the pork belly for 30 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

7. Reduce Oven Temperature and Continue Roasting:

• Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork belly reaches 145°F (63°C).

8. Rest and Slice:

• Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy bacon.

Variations:

• Spicy Bacon: Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the dry rub for an extra kick.
• Sweet Bacon: Drizzle the pork belly with honey or maple syrup before roasting for a sweeter flavor.
• Smoked Bacon: If you have access to a smoker, smoke the pork belly for several hours before roasting for a smoky and flavorful twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy your homemade pork belly bacon as part of a classic breakfast with eggs, pancakes, or waffles.
• Use it to elevate sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
• Crumble it over pasta dishes or soups for an extra layer of flavor.

Health Benefits:

• Pork belly bacon is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• It contains iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.
• The fat in pork belly bacon is mostly unsaturated, which is considered healthier than saturated fat.

Tips for Success:

• For the crispiest skin, make sure to score the pork belly deeply and dry it thoroughly before roasting.
• Don’t overcook the pork belly, as it will become tough and dry.
• Let the pork belly rest before slicing to prevent the juices from escaping.

The Next Level: Pork Belly Bacon Bites

Take your pork belly bacon to the next level by cutting it into small cubes and pan-frying them until crispy. These bite-sized treats are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or as a topping for salads and soups.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a pork shoulder or a pork loin, but the pork belly will yield the most flavorful and crispy bacon.
2. How long can I store homemade pork belly bacon?
Store the bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze homemade pork belly bacon?
Yes, you can freeze the bacon for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
4. What is the best way to reheat pork belly bacon?
Reheat the bacon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
5. Can I make pork belly bacon in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the pork belly in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, or until tender. Then, roast it in the oven to crisp up the skin.