Smyes lightly peppered bacon –Get ready to embark on a flavor journey with this delightful Pastrami-Style Homemade Peppered Bacon! If you’ve ever had dreams about bacon becoming the culinary equivalent of a superhero, then this recipe is your golden ticket. Prepare your taste buds – it’s about to get deliciously adventurous!
Peppered Bacon Extravaganza
This isn’t just any bacon; it’s an epic creation that brings the spice and zest to your breakfast table! Imagine the savory strips basking in their glory while you prepare to take a bite into the tastiest piece of heaven.
Ingredients for Awesomeness
To whip up this bacon fantasy, gather the following ingredients:
- 5 pounds of pork belly, skin removed
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1)
- Optional: A pinch of your favorite spice – because why not?
How to Create This Bacon Masterpiece
Preparing bacon that could make a grown chef weep is easier than you think! Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be the proud chef of a magnificent bacon creation.
- Start by mixing the kosher salt, sugar, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and pink curing salt in a bowl. This will be your magical curing mix!
- Rub this wonderful mixture all over the pork belly, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Think of it as giving your bacon a spa day!
- Wrap the seasoned pork belly in plastic wrap and place it inside a baking dish or bag to catch any escaping juices. Put it in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days, flipping it every few days. Yes, patience is key!
- After the waiting game, rinse off the curing mix, then pat the bacon dry. Let it rest in the fridge for another 24 hours to get that perfect texture.
- Now comes the fun part! Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the bacon on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake uninterrupted for 2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
- Once your masterpiece is cooked, it’s time for the most challenging part – let it cool and slice it up! Fry those glorious slices in a pan and watch the magic happen.
There you have it! A scrumptious adventure awaits with every bite of your homemade Pastrami-Style Peppered Bacon. Serve it up as part of a brunch feast, in sandwiches, or simply on its own. Enjoy your crispy creation!