Home cured pancetta –Y’all, let me tell you about this delicious Home Cured Pancetta recipe that’s bound to elevate your cooking game. If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with something special, this dried meat is where it’s at! Let’s dive right into this culinary adventure.
Feast Your Eyes on This
Check out this beautiful, mouth-watering pancetta. It’s got that rich color and texture that screams homemade goodness!
Ingredients
Now before we start, let’s gather up all the goodies you need:
- 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly cracked
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Cheesecloth (for wrapping)
Instructions
Alright, let’s get this show on the road. Follow these steps to create your very own pancetta:
- Start by making the curing mix. In a bowl, combine the kosher salt, sugar, black pepper, and pink curing salt. This is what’s gonna give that pancetta its fabulous flavor.
- Rub the curing mix all over the pork belly, ensuring a good coat. Don’t hold back, get it everywhere!
- Next, sprinkle the crushed garlic and fresh herbs over the pork belly. Wrap it up tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped pork belly in a container and put it in the fridge for about 7-10 days. Turn it over every couple of days to ensure the cure is evenly distributed.
- After the curing period, take the pork belly out and rinse off any excess cure under cold water. Pat it dry with some paper towels.
- Now, wrap the cured pork belly in cheesecloth and tie it off securely. Hang it in a cool, dry place (like a wine cellar or a cool pantry) for about 2-3 weeks. It should feel firm to the touch when it’s done.
- Once it’s ready, slice it up and savor your hard work! You can use it in sandwiches, pasta dishes, or eat it as is. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors!
And there you have it, a fantastic home-cured pancetta recipe that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bit of the process, and share the love with those around you!