Are you looking to switch up your breakfast routine? Look no further than pork jowl bacon!
This flavorful cut of meat is similar to traditional bacon but with a unique texture and taste. But how do you cook it?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore different methods for cooking pork jowl bacon, from stovetop to smoker.
Plus, we’ll share some delicious recipe ideas to incorporate this tasty meat into your meals. So grab a skillet and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Pork Jowl Bacon?
There are several ways to cook pork jowl bacon, depending on your preference and available equipment. Here are three methods to try:
What Is Pork Jowl Bacon?
Pork jowl bacon is a type of bacon that is made from the cheeks of a pig instead of the more commonly used pork belly. It is a fatty and silky cut of meat that is often used in Southern cuisine and soul food. In some parts of the world, it is also known as hog jowl or “joe meat”.
The curing and smoking process for pork jowl bacon is similar to that of regular bacon. The jowl is cured with a mixture of salt and curing salt, which is then left to dry overnight. Afterward, it is smoked at a low temperature until it reaches the desired level of smokiness.
When cooked, pork jowl bacon has a higher meat-to-fat ratio than regular bacon, which makes it tender and flavorful. It can be used in the same way as regular bacon, such as in breakfast dishes, sandwiches, or as a cooking fat for beans, greens, or other dishes.
It’s important to note that pork jowl bacon often comes with the skin or rind still attached. This can be removed before cooking if desired, but it can also add flavor and texture to certain dishes. Pork jowl bacon can be found at some specialty butcher shops or online retailers.
Different Cooking Methods For Pork Jowl Bacon
1. Stovetop Cooking: To cook pork jowl bacon on the stovetop, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. If the jowl is not already sliced, use a sharp knife to slice it into desired thickness for bacon. Place the slices of pork jowl bacon in the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd it. Cook it for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning the jowl meat frequently to prevent burning.
2. Oven Cooking: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the bacon strips on the parchment paper, leaving 1 1/2 inch between each strip. Cover the bacon with another sheet of parchment paper to absorb excess oil from the meat whilst it cooks. After 15 minutes remove the tray from the oven and remove the parchment paper from the top of the bacon. Then place the baking tray back into the oven for a further 5 minutes, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. You’ll know the bacon is done when it’s a dark honey color.
3. Smoking: Weigh the jowl in grams and mix regular salt and curing salt together in a ratio of 2% regular salt and 0.25% curing salt, with sugar if you prefer. Massage the salts (and sugar, if using) into the jowl well and put it in a vacuum bag or sealable plastic bag in the fridge for a week. When cured, remove from bag, rinse and pat dry, set it on a rack in the fridge overnight. Get your smoker ready at 165F or as close as possible. Take out of fridge and set it in smoker for at least 3 hours, up to 8 hours if smoker is below 120F.
Each of these methods produces different results depending on how you like your pork jowl bacon cooked. Stovetop cooking will give you crispy and flavorful bacon, while oven cooking produces a crispy texture with a slightly sweet taste. Smoking adds a unique smoky flavor that complements the savory taste of pork jowl bacon perfectly. Try out each method to find your favorite way to cook pork jowl bacon!
Cooking Pork Jowl Bacon On The Stovetop
Cooking pork jowl bacon on the stovetop is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this savory meat. You can use a cast-iron skillet or a griddle pan to cook the bacon, and the process is similar to cooking regular bacon.
To start, preheat your skillet or griddle pan over medium heat. If your jowl bacon is not sliced, use a sharp knife to cut it into your desired thickness. Once your pan is hot, place the slices of pork jowl bacon in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it. Cook the bacon for about 10-15 minutes, flipping the slices as needed to prevent burning.
As the bacon cooks, you may notice that it releases some fat. This is normal and can actually help to flavor the meat. If you find that there is too much fat in the pan, you can carefully pour some of it off into a heat-safe container.
When the pork jowl bacon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan with tongs or a slotted spatula and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. You can serve the bacon immediately while it’s still warm and crispy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your jowl bacon, you can season it with salt, pepper, and other spices before cooking. You can also try adding some chopped onions or garlic to the pan for a savory twist.
Grilling Pork Jowl Bacon
Grilling pork jowl bacon is a great way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. To prepare, season the pork jowl with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the pork jowl slices on the grates. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the outside starts to crisp and caramelize.
When finished grilling, remove the pork jowl bacon from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. Cut at an angle and against the grain to get the best thin slices. This method of cooking pork jowl bacon results in a smoky, charred flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your grilled pork jowl bacon, try marinating it beforehand. Combine garlic, cilantro stalks, lemongrass, oyster sauce, soy sauce, black peppercorns, brown or palm sugar, and salt in a food processor or using a mortar and pestle. Blitz or pulverize until smooth and pour over the pork jowl. Make sure everything is evenly coated and let it marinate in the fridge overnight. When ready to grill, take the pork out about 30-60 minutes before cooking and allow it to warm up to room temperature before grilling. This will help ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Smoking Pork Jowl Bacon
Smoking pork jowl bacon is a popular method for adding depth and complexity to the flavor. To start, place the jowls on a rack and smoke them for 3-4 hours or until you reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This can be done using a smoker or grill with a smoking attachment.
Before smoking, it’s important to cure the jowls. This can be done by rubbing them with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices and letting them sit in the refrigerator for several days to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once smoked, pork jowl bacon can be used in a variety of dishes. Its flavor is similar to regular bacon but with a silky-smooth texture on the tongue. It can be diced up and used as seasoning for black-eyed peas or added to cornbread stuffing. It’s also delicious when used in pasta dishes or simply fried up and added to salads.
Recipe Ideas For Pork Jowl Bacon
Pork jowl bacon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some recipe ideas to inspire your next meal:
1. Pork Jowl BLT: This classic sandwich gets a twist with the addition of jowl bacon. Fry the bacon until crispy, then layer it on toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.
2. Black Eyed Pea and Jowl Bacon Stew: Combine the smoky flavor of jowl bacon with black eyed peas for a hearty and comforting stew. Start by frying the bacon until crispy, then add chopped onions, garlic, and celery to the pan. Once the vegetables are soft, add chicken or vegetable broth, canned tomatoes, and black eyed peas. Let the stew simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Jowl Bacon Carbonara: This Italian pasta dish is traditionally made with pancetta or bacon, but jowl bacon makes a great substitute. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, then drain and set aside. In a separate pan, fry diced jowl bacon until crispy. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan, then toss in the cooked spaghetti. Beat together eggs and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl, then pour over the pasta and toss until coated.
4. Jowl Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: This simple appetizer is sure to impress your guests. Wrap asparagus spears in thin slices of jowl bacon, then bake in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.
5. Jowl Bacon Breakfast Hash: This savory breakfast dish is perfect for lazy weekend mornings. Fry diced jowl bacon in a cast iron skillet until crispy, then remove from the pan and set aside. Add diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers to the pan and cook until the vegetables are soft and browned. Add the bacon back to the pan and crack several eggs on top. Cover with a lid and cook until the eggs are set.
No matter how you choose to cook it, jowl bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to any dish. Experiment with these recipe ideas or come up with your own unique creations!