homemade bacon recipe

How to Make Homemade Bacon: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making homemade bacon is a rewarding process that yields delicious, preservative-free meat. Follow this simple guide to create your own flavorful bacon at home.

Ingredients & Tools:

You’ll need 2 pounds of pork belly, 2 tablespoons of coarse salt, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of curing salt (optional, for safety). Essential tools include a large ziplock bag, a roasting pan, and a meat thermometer.

Step 1: Prepare the Cure Mix

In a bowl, thoroughly combine the salt, brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, and curing salt (if using). This mixture will both flavor and preserve the pork belly.

Step 2: Apply the Cure

Rub the cure mix generously all over the pork belly, ensuring even coverage. Place the belly in a ziplock bag, seal it tightly, and refrigerate for 7–10 days, flipping the bag daily to distribute the cure evenly.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

After curing, remove the pork belly from the bag and rinse off excess cure under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. For a crispy texture, let it air-dry in the refrigerator for 24 hours, uncovered.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the pork belly on a wire rack set over a roasting pan. Bake for 2–3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C). For a smoky flavor, add wood chips to a grill and smoke the bacon for 1–2 hours instead.

Step 5: Slice and Store

Let the bacon cool completely, then slice it to your desired thickness. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Enjoy your homemade bacon on sandwiches, salads, or as a breakfast side—its rich, savory flavor will elevate any dish!