Pork Belly - Whole

Whole Pork Belly 

Our Whole Pork Belly, weighing in at 8-10 pounds, is a magnificent cut for those who enjoy the art of cooking. This large piece offers endless culinary possibilities, from crafting homemade bacon to preparing show-stopping main courses. The balance of meat and fat in this cut ensures rich flavor and succulence in every dish. Ideal for those looking to experiment with more adventurous cooking techniques, our whole pork belly is a versatile canvas that promises delicious results, whether you're slow-roasting, smoking, or curing.

Detailed Cooking Tips:

1. Slow Roasting: Season as desired and roast in a low-temperature oven (around 250°F) for several hours. This method renders the fat and tenderizes the meat, perfect for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Smoking: Smoking a whole pork belly infuses it with a deep, smoky flavor. Maintain a low temperature and smoke for several hours until the desired tenderness and flavor are achieved.
3. Curing for Homemade Bacon: Cure the belly with a mix of salt, sugar, and spices. After curing, smoke it at a low temperature to create your own homemade bacon.

New Recipe Ideas:

1. Homemade Artisanal Bacon: Cure the belly with a mix of kosher salt, pink curing salt, brown sugar, and black pepper. Let it cure in the fridge for a week, turning daily, then smoke it at a low temperature until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F. Slice and fry as needed.
2. Asian-Style Braised Belly: Cut the belly into large pieces and braise with soy sauce, rice wine, star anise, and ginger. Cook slowly until tender, then serve with steamed buns and pickled vegetables.
3. Crispy Pork Belly with Caramelized Apples: Slow roast the belly until tender, then increase the oven temperature to crisp up the skin. Serve with caramelized apples for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
4. Pork Belly Burnt Ends: Cube the belly, season with a BBQ rub, and smoke until tender. Coat with BBQ sauce and cook further until the sauce caramelizes for a sticky, sweet, and savory bite.

A Whole Pork Belly from Jake's Country Meats is not just an ingredient; it's an invitation to explore and enjoy the richer side of pork cooking.