Recipe Cured Salt Pork

When it comes to adding savory, rich flavors to your dishes, homemade cured salt pork is a delicious and versatile ingredient to have on hand. This traditional recipe is a classic technique that has been used for generations to preserve and enhance the flavor of pork. Whether you want to add depth to soups, stews, or beans, or elevate the taste of your favorite dishes, this cured salt pork recipe is a must-try. Follow along to learn how to create your own batch of this culinary staple.

Recipe: Cured Salt Pork

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork belly, skin on
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons black pepper
– 2 bay leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, smashed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries

Instructions:
1. Start by rinsing the pork belly under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Place it in a large dish or zip-top bag with a tight seal.

2. In a bowl, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, bay leaves, garlic, thyme, and allspice berries. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Rub the salt mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides. Massage the mixture into the meat, ensuring it is well-covered.

4. Place the pork belly in the dish or bag and seal it tightly. Refrigerate for 7-10 days, turning the pork belly over every few days to redistribute the curing mixture.

5. After 7-10 days, remove the pork belly from the refrigerator. Rinse off the curing mixture under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

6. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the cured pork belly on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the pork belly is cooked through and firm to the touch.

7. Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Slice the cured salt pork thinly or dice it into small pieces, depending on how you plan to use it.

8. Store the cured salt pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month, or freeze it for longer storage. Use it in your favorite recipes to add a depth of flavor that will elevate your dishes.

Enjoy the rich, savory taste of homemade cured salt pork in your cooking, and savor the delicious results that this classic preparation method can bring to your kitchen. From enhancing soups and stews to adding a flavorful punch to beans and grains, this homemade ingredient is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try and discover the difference that homemade cured salt pork can make in your dishes today!