Boiled bacon with garlic and paprika

Boiled bacon with garlic and paprika: A traditional delicacy

Are you dreaming of a simple yet flavorful dish that brings back memories of delicious meals from your childhood? Boiled bacon with garlic and paprika is undoubtedly an excellent choice! This recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, is easy to prepare and will surely become a star on your table.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- Salted bacon (approximately 500 g)
- 1 head of garlic
- 4 bay leaves
- Peppercorns (1-2 tablespoons)
- Paprika (sweet or spicy, according to preference)
- Salt (optional, to taste)

A touch of history:

Bacon has a rich story, having been used for centuries as a source of protein and fats in people's diets. This ingredient is found in many culinary cultures and has been appreciated over time not only for its taste but also for its ability to preserve meat. The combination with garlic and paprika is not accidental - these ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also provide health benefits, possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by choosing a quality bacon, preferably one that is salted, with a good meat-to-fat ratio. Its aroma will be essential for the recipe. If you prefer less salty bacon, you can soak it in cold water for a few hours before cooking.

2. Boiling the bacon: Place the bacon in a large pot with hot water. Add the peppercorns, bay leaves, and the whole head of garlic (you can cut it in half to release more flavor). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the bacon simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check if it is cooked by trying it with a fork - it should easily pierce through the bacon.

3. Cooling the bacon: Once the bacon is boiled, remove the pot from the heat and let the bacon cool in the water. This step will help it retain its juiciness. After it has cooled slightly, take the bacon out of the water and let it drain on a paper towel.

4. Rubbing with garlic: After the bacon has drained, take the boiled garlic from the pot, peel the cloves, and crush them in a mortar or with a knife. Rub the bacon with the crushed garlic, adding paprika according to your preference. You can use both sweet and hot paprika, depending on how spicy you want the dish.

5. Final cooling: Place the prepared bacon in a container and refrigerate it for a few hours, preferably overnight. This resting time will allow the flavors to combine perfectly.

Serving:

Boiled bacon with garlic and paprika is usually served sliced thinly on a rustic plate, accompanied by mustard or horseradish. An excellent combination of flavors that will delight all your senses!

Helpful tip: You can serve it with fresh bread, pickles, or a simple green salad. A cold beer or a dry white wine pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use smoked bacon?
Yes, smoked bacon adds a unique and deep flavor to the dish. It may change the taste slightly, but it is worth trying.

2. How long does boiled bacon last?
It keeps very well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to a week. You can also use it in other recipes, such as salads or vegetable dishes.

3. Is bacon healthy?
When consumed in moderation, bacon and garlic can be part of a balanced diet. Bacon provides healthy fats, and garlic has numerous health benefits.

Possible variations:

If you want to put your personal touch on the recipe, you can add extra spices such as thyme, oregano, or even chili for a spicy note. You can also experiment with different types of mustard or sauces to accompany this savory dish.

I hope this recipe for boiled bacon with garlic and paprika brings a touch of joy to your kitchen! Enjoy your meal!