Bacon with Paprika

Bacon is a traditional dish that brings with it a lot of culinary memories and moments of conviviality. Starting from the neck part, also known as the wattle, it can be cooked both fresh and salted, offering remarkable versatility. To enjoy truly delicious bacon, it is important to follow the preparation steps and use the right ingredients.

If you opt for salted bacon, the first step is to desalt it. This is done by soaking it in cold water for a few hours, changing the water at regular intervals. Once desalted, it is boiled in a pot of unsalted but well-seasoned water. The latter is key to providing flavor to the bacon. Add a few black peppercorns, some bay leaves, a whole onion, a few cloves of garlic cut in half, and some coriander seeds to the water. These spices will infuse the bacon with intense flavors.

If you have fresh bacon, the procedure is slightly different. Here, the bacon is placed directly into boiling salted water, adding the same spices mentioned earlier. It is important to keep the heat low, so the water does not boil excessively, to avoid losing the qualities of the bacon. Boil the bacon until it becomes tender, and to check if it is ready, use a fork. A useful trick is to remove the bacon from the water when it easily comes off the fork.

After you finish boiling the bacon, take it out of the water and sprinkle it with sweet or spicy paprika, depending on your preferences. This step adds an extra touch of color and flavor to the dish. Let the bacon cool in a cool place, away from sunlight. Once it has cooled, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator. Although it may be tempting to consume it immediately, it is best to wait a few hours or even a day to allow the flavors to develop.

Bacon keeps well in the refrigerator, but it is ideal to consume it within a few days to appreciate its fresh taste. It can be served as an appetizer, alongside fresh bread or pickles, and can add a touch of flavor to family meals or parties. So, get ready to savor an authentic delicacy that not only brings joy to the plate but also to the soul!