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Save Pin The ultimate artisan charcuterie project: fresh pork belly dry-cured for 7 days in maple syrup, brown sugar, pink curing salt, and smoked over applewood.
Humble pantry staples can create an extraordinary Homemade Maple Brown Sugar Cured Bacon Recipe when treated with proper heat and technique. This recipe celebrates pork belly, dark brown sugar, packed and pure vermont maple syrup in under 7 days 45 min, providing a reliable, flavor-packed dish you will want to make again and again.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, kosher salt, pink curing salt, and black pepper. Rub cure all over pork belly.
Place pork belly in a large ziplock bag. **Refrigerate for 7 days**, flipping bag daily to distribute liquid brine.
Rinse cure off pork belly; pat dry. Smoke over applewood at 200°F (93°C) for **2 to 3 hours** until internal temp reaches 150°F (65°C).
**Chill overnight in fridge**. Slice into thick bacon strips; fry in a skillet until crisp.
1. Let the Meat Rest Before Slicing: Transfer cooked meat to a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before carving. Resting allows tight muscle fibers to relax and redistribute savory juices evenly throughout the cut. 2. Season in Measured Layers: Introduce small pinches of salt at different cooking stages rather than dumping seasoning on at the end. This draws out moisture and seasons every ingredient to its core. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Flip the ziplock bag daily during the 7-day cure for even distribution.
Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.
Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.
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