Smoked ribs with marjoram and potatoes

Smoked bacon with potatoes – a rustic recipe that brings the warmth of winter evenings to your plate

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t fondly remember winter evenings spent with family, enveloped in the aroma of lovingly cooked food? Smoked bacon with potatoes is a recipe that revives those moments. With a rich taste and simple preparation, this rustic dish is sure to become a family favorite.

A brief history of smoked bacon

Smoked bacon has always been a staple ingredient in traditional kitchens. The smoking method not only preserves the meat but also gives it an unmistakable flavor that brings a touch of nostalgia. This dish has been enjoyed by generations, becoming a symbol of joy and family reunions at the table. Whether served with pickles or vegetables, smoked bacon remains a perfect choice for festive meals or simply for a family dinner.

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg smoked bacon
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 tablespoons roasted red pepper paste (ideally homemade)
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 3 sprigs of fresh tarragon
- 1.5 liters of water

Step-by-step preparation

1. Desalting the bacon:
Start by desalting the smoked bacon. Place it in a bowl of cold water and let it soak for a few hours, changing the water occasionally. This step is essential to reduce the excessive saltiness of the meat and make the dish more pleasant to taste.

2. Blanching the bacon:
After soaking, place the bacon in a large pot of water and bring to a boil. Blanch the bacon for 5 minutes, then drain it. This step helps remove excess salt and improve the texture.

3. Preparing the ingredients:
Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely. This ingredient will add a savory flavor to the dish. Also, prepare the potatoes by peeling and cutting them into suitable pieces.

4. Arranging in the multicooker:
Place the bacon in the Philips multicooker pot. Add the roasted red pepper paste, chopped garlic, marjoram, and tarragon on top. These flavors will transform the bacon into a delicacy. Pour 1.5 liters of water over all the ingredients.

5. Cooking in the multicooker:
Set the device to the "Stew" function and let it cook for one hour. This cooking method will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender and juicy.

6. Boiling the potatoes:
After 30 minutes of cooking the bacon, place the peeled and cut potatoes in another pot of boiling water. Transfer some of the bacon broth into the potato pot to infuse flavor. Boil the potatoes until they are soft, but remember to crush them lightly, keeping their texture intact to avoid turning them into puree.

7. Finalizing the dish:
The bacon is ready when the liquid around it has reduced, and you can easily insert a fork into the meat. Finally, serve the smoked bacon alongside the crushed potatoes and your favorite pickles. An ideal combination that will warm your soul!

Practical tips

- Pickles: Smoked bacon pairs perfectly with pickled cucumbers, sauerkraut, or bell peppers. Choose your favorite pickles to complement this dish.
- Variations: For a more intense flavor, you can experiment with spices, adding sweet or spicy paprika. You can also use sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste and a touch of originality.
- Pepper paste: If you don't have roasted red pepper paste, you can use canned peppers or even fresh peppers, which you can roast before adding.

Nutritional information

Smoked bacon is a rich source of protein and contains fats that can provide energy. However, it is a salty food, so it is best consumed in moderation. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, making this dish a balanced choice for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! This recipe works well with pork or even beef, but the cooking time will vary.

How can I store leftover bacon?
If you have leftover bacon, you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can use it in sandwiches or salads.

What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine or a craft beer would be excellent accompaniments for this hearty dish.

So, I invite you to try this simple and delicious recipe for smoked bacon with potatoes, and enjoy the authentic flavors of childhood. Whether you prepare it for a family evening or to impress guests, it will surely bring smiles to everyone's faces. Enjoy your meal!