Homemade bacon

Delicious Homemade Bacon Recipe with Garlic Sauce

Here’s a recipe that brings a touch of tradition to any meal, perfect for winter evenings when the aroma of well-prepared bacon makes you feel at home. Homemade bacon with garlic sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed alongside cheeses, red onion, and a shot of homemade plum brandy. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Total time: 4 days (including salting period)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of bacon (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 liter of white table wine
- 6 cloves of garlic (for the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- Bay leaves (3-4 pieces)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Coarse kitchen salt (for salting)
- Whole peppercorns (5-6 pieces)
- Optional: cabbage brine (for added flavor)

Short history:
Bacon preparation is an ancient tradition found in many cultures, often used as a method of preserving meat. On cold winter mornings, bacon transforms into a savory delight, being a staple ingredient in holiday meals. This recipe not only pays tribute to these traditions but also combines rustic flavors with modern cooking methods.

Step by Step:

1. Salting the Bacon:
- Start by salting the bacon. Choose 4 suitable pieces, ensuring they have some meat for an intense flavor. Sprinkle coarse kitchen salt over the entire surface of the bacon, making sure it is well covered. Wrap the bacon in plastic wrap or place it in a container and leave it in the refrigerator for 3 days. It will absorb the necessary salt, becoming more flavorful.

2. Preparing the Bacon:
- After the 3 days of salting, remove the bacon from the refrigerator. In a large pot, add the bacon, then pour enough white table wine to completely cover the pieces. Add the finely chopped garlic cloves (6 cloves are ideal), bay leaves, dried thyme, and a few peppercorns. It’s important that the bacon is fully submerged in liquid, so there’s no need to stir, which could crumble it.

3. Boiling:
- Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for about an hour. Ensure the bacon is cooked evenly. You can check the cooking with a skewer; if it easily goes into the bacon, it’s done.

4. Cooling:
- Once boiled, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain in a colander. Place the pieces on a kitchen towel on the balcony to cool completely. This step is essential for allowing the bacon to firm up.

5. Seasoning:
- After it has cooled well, prepare the garlic sauce, saving some for brushing the bacon. Mix the sauce with sweet paprika to taste, and a bit of ground thyme. Brush the bacon with this mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Leave it again on the balcony, preferably overnight; the longer it sits, the more intense the flavors become.

6. Serving:
- The bacon is now ready to be enjoyed! Slice it and serve it on a traditional platter, alongside telemea cheese, sheep cheese, or crumbled salty cheese. Add sliced red onion and don’t forget a shot of homemade plum brandy – a perfect accompaniment for this dish.

Practical tips and variations:
- Ingredients: Choose bacon with a balanced proportion of meat and fat; this will ensure a rich flavor and pleasant texture.
- Garlic sauce: You can experiment with different types of garlic; for example, younger garlic can add a sweeter note.
- Variations: Instead of paprika, you can use herbs like oregano or dill to give it a different note.
- Easy to store: Bacon can be kept in the refrigerator for a few weeks, but it is recommended to consume it in the first few days to enjoy its fresh aroma.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This homemade bacon is rich in proteins and healthy fats, but it is important to consume it in moderation. A portion of about 100 g contains around 350-450 calories, depending on the proportion of meat and fat. The added garlic not only enhances the flavor but also brings benefits for the immune system and blood circulation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can experiment with pork or even beef, but the cooking time may vary.
- What other dishes pair well with homemade bacon? It pairs excellently with homemade bread, pickles, or even in a rustic salad.
- How can I preserve it for a longer time? You can lightly smoke it after it has cooled to enhance the flavors and extend its shelf life.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious homemade bacon, all that’s left is to get cooking! Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share the result with your loved ones!