Bacon Lovers, Rejoice! Discover the Secret of Homemade Ground Pork Bacon
Are you tired of the same old bacon routine? If so, it’s time to try making your own ground pork bacon. This homemade delicacy is incredibly flavorful, versatile, and surprisingly easy to make. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make ground pork bacon:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground pork (80% lean, 20% fat)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
1. Season the Ground Pork
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, brown sugar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Form the Bacon
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take small handfuls of the seasoned ground pork and form them into strips about 1/2-inch thick and 3-4 inches long. Place the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake the Bacon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and has reached your desired level of crispiness.
4. Drain the Bacon
Remove the bacon from the oven and drain it on paper towels to remove any excess fat.
5. Enjoy
Your homemade ground pork bacon is now ready to enjoy! Serve it with your favorite breakfast dishes, sandwiches, or as a snack.
Tips
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked ground pork.
- Add a touch of heat by including a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- To make the bacon strips thinner, roll out the seasoned ground pork into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface before cutting it into strips.
- If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking sheet lightly with cooking spray.
Variations
- Applewood Smoked Bacon: Add 1/2 teaspoon of applewood smoked salt to the seasoning mixture.
- Honey Garlic Bacon: Replace the maple syrup with 1/4 cup of honey and add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
- Sriracha Bacon: Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha sauce to the seasoning mixture.
Storing
Store the cooked ground pork bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Health Benefits
Ground pork bacon is a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. It is also lower in fat and calories than traditional bacon.
Final Thoughts
Making ground pork bacon at home is a rewarding experience that will impress your taste buds. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a delicious addition to any meal. So, next time you’re craving bacon, give this homemade version a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is ground pork bacon safe to eat?
A: Yes, ground pork bacon is safe to eat as long as it is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Q: Can I use ground beef or turkey instead of ground pork?
A: Yes, you can use ground beef or turkey, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Q: How long does ground pork bacon last in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked ground pork bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze ground pork bacon?
A: Yes, you can freeze ground pork bacon for up to 2 months.
Q: What are some ways to use ground pork bacon?
A: Ground pork bacon can be used in a variety of dishes, including breakfast sandwiches, omelets, salads, and pizzas.