Tag: homemade

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars

Klondike bars are a very dangerous thing. Whatever gene you have to be born with to control yourself around them is one that I do not have. I thought that the store-bought ones were tempting enough until I made homemade red velvet Klondike bars. Now I know what true temptation is.

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars

No Chocolatiers Live Here, That’s For Sure

I’m not a baker or chocolatier or anything like the experts that make chocolate treats. I was lucky to get the chocolate on these bars in an even remotely even manner. These homemade red velvet Klondike bars came out tasting fantastic. I couldn’t care less if some had a bit more chocolate than others.

One of the biggest keys to these bars is the coconut oil. It doesn’t take a lot of the oil, but it’s very important to the texture and sheen of the chocolate.

Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, Cold-Pressed - Natural Hair /Skin Oil and Cooking Oil with Fresh Flavor, Non-GMO Unrefined Extra Virgin(Aceite de Coco), USDA Organic, 16 oz
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, Cold-Pressed – Natural Hair /Skin Oil and Cooking Oil with Fresh Flavor, Non-GMO Unrefined Extra Virgin(Aceite de Coco), USDA Organic, 16 oz

You can, of course, substitute any ice cream flavor you like. Red velvet ice cream was only available here for a limited time, so I had to grab it while I could. For a simpler but just as crazy good treat, try my homemade mini ice cream sandwiches. If you love red velvet as much as my wife does, my red velvet ice cream cone cupcakes are delicious too!

Also try my frozen yogurt dots.

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars

I thought that the store-bought ones were tempting enough until I made homemade red velvet Klondike bars. Now I know what true temptation is.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword dessert, homemade
Prep Time 6 hours
Cook Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings 4 -6 servings
Calories 391kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Almost Super Mom

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add ice cream to an 8" x 8" baking dish lined with parchment paper. Add enough so that the ice cream is 1/2" – 1" thick.
  • Spread out evenly using a spatula.
  • Freeze for at least 6 hours or until the ice cream is completely refrozen.
  • Turn pan upside down to remove the ice cream.
  • Cut into 4-6 equal-sized squares. Return the squares to the freezer to re-freeze.
  • Place coconut oil and chocolate chips into a double boiler over medium heat and and melt, stirring often.
  • Remove chocolate from heat and let cool to room temperature. Do not rush this step.
  • Working quickly, take ice cream squares from freezer and dip into the chocolate.
  • Flip with a fork and quickly remove to parchment paper.
  • Place bars in freezer for 20 minutes.
  • Wrap in thin foil before serving.

Notes

Well-frozen ice cream is key to making sure the chocolate sticks well. Also do not rush cooling the chocolate sauce. It needs to be at room temperature. Any warmer and it will melt the ice cream and not adhere.

Nutrition

Calories: 391kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 106mg | Potassium: 263mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 556IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 169mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Homemade Pastrami

I’ve been making homemade pastrami for years. I make what is commonly called ‘cheater’ pastrami, or ‘fauxstrami’. I don’t start with a brisket, brine (or ‘corn’) it for ages and then smoke it. Instead, I start with a corned beef brisket. The end result is absolutely fantastic.

Homemade Pastrami

A Big Hit Every Time I Make It

I load up on corned beefs any time they are on sale. My relatives and neighbors absolutely love it when I make pastrami. It’s always a huge hit.

I took a slightly different approach than my traditional method and I’ve found this way to make homemade pastrami to be even better than the old. You still get that slight peppery bite, but the pastrami-like flavor seems more pronounced and further penetrates the meat than when I use a more coarse spice grind.

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites. For this pastrami I went with apple.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Homemade Pastrami
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Pastrami

I load up on corned beefs any time they are on sale. My relatives and neighbors absolutely love it when I make pastrami. It’s always a huge hit.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword corned beef, smoked
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 16 hours
Servings 1 corned beef
Calories 2012kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Rinse and dry the corned beef.
  • Whisk together the mustard, brown sugar, coriander and allspice. You want the mixture to be slightly wet so that it adheres to the meat. If it does not, add a bit more mustard and mix.
  • Rub the mixture all over the brisket, then cover completely with the ground pepper.
  • Place in a large resealable bag or wrap tightly in foil and keep in the fridge overnight.
  • The next day, fire up your smoker for 225-250 F. Place a chunk or two of light fruit wood in the smoker (I used cherry).
  • Cook the brisket for at least 8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 195 – 205 F.
  • Remove, wrap in foil, and let rest for 30 minutes.
  • Thinly slice the brisket against the grain using a meat slicer or sharp knife.
  • Serve.

Notes

I usually buy reduced sodium corned beef to make pastrami. If you have concerns over the amount of sodium, soak your brisket in cold water for 2 hours, replacing the water every 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 2012kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 136g | Fat: 137g | Saturated Fat: 43g | Cholesterol: 486mg | Sodium: 11313mg | Potassium: 3116mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 146IU | Vitamin C: 246mg | Calcium: 258mg | Iron: 19mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Homemade Italian Sausage

I have been making a lot of pizzas on the grill this year. It took a long time of testing, trying, and testing some more. Now, I’m very happy with our homemade dough and homemade sauce. And now I can say I’m also happy with our homemade Italian sausage. It’s very easy to make but still packs a nice spicy flavor. It’s perfect for pizzas, calzones, or hoagies.

Homemade Italian Sausage

Great Sausage For Pizzas

Nothing beats a pizza hot off a charcoal- or wood-fired grill, specially if it’s loaded with homemade Italian sausage. I use a Kettle Pizza adapter on my 22″ Weber charcoal grill. It’s great any time I want to recreate that awesome classic pizza flavor.

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

Also try my homemade beef summer sausage.

Homemade Italian Sausage
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Italian Sausage

I’m very happy with our homemade Italian sausage. It’s very easy to make but still packs a nice spicy flavor. It’s perfect for pizzas, calzones, or hoagies.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword homemade, Italian, sausage
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 15 minutes
Servings 3 pounds
Calories 1231kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the pork in a large bowl.
  • Add all of the remaining ingredients.
  • Mix well. I found using my hands to be the best way. Just make sure you get all of the spices distributed evenly throughout the pork.
  • Let pork refrigerate for 12 hours before using to distribute the flavors.

Notes

I froze the sausage in 1/2 to 1 pound packages for use later on pizzas or in pasta sauces.

Nutrition

Calories: 1231kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 78g | Fat: 97g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Cholesterol: 327mg | Sodium: 2612mg | Potassium: 1490mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 571IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Homemade Frosted Corn Flakes

One of the first recipes I made out of Big Bad Breakfast: The Most Important Book of the Day from John Currence was homemade frosted corn flakes. As soon as I saw it I was like wow…. how cool would it be to eat a bowl of cereal that I made? So I did. And it was fantastic. So much more corn flavor than the stuff in a box! I mean they were super corny! I could not get over just how much I enjoyed this cereal. It was like I hadn’t had a bowl in years. It didn’t wow me any more, I guess. Well, now I’m wow’d again!

Homemade Frosted Corn Flakes

Crunchy Until The Last Spoonful

These homemade frosted corn flakes were also a lot crunchier than the ones out of a box. They can definitely hold up to milk. You know how with the store-bought flakes you only have a few minutes before you have bowl of soggy sadness. Not with these. You’ll be crunching until the last flake.

The recipe calls for real sugar. I didn’t try it using a sugar substitute. My gut feeling is that you’re better using the real deal.

Homemade Frosted Corn Flakes
Print Pin
2.25 from 4 votes

Homemade Frosted Corn Flakes

So much more corn flavor than the stuff in a box! I mean they were super corny!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cereal, homemade
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4 cups
Calories 449kcal
Author Based on a recipe from John Currence

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 250 F.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Lightly spray the paper with non-stick spray.
  • Combine the cornmeal, masa, 3 tablespoons of the sugar, vanilla extract, and all of the salt.
  • Add 2 cups of boiling water and stir until blended. Add more water as needed, getting the batter to a consistency just a little thinner than that of pancake batter.
  • Pour the batter out onto the lined baking sheet and spread out evenly. Try to get it as thin as possible (mine was a bit thick, but you’re aiming for 1/8″ if possible).
  • Sprinkle the batter with the remaining sugar.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, turning every 15 minutes. The batter will dry out and start to crack. If your batter is thick like mine you might have to bake it a little longer.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool.
  • Break up the corn into bite-sized pieces. It’s like breaking up brittle, but you want smaller pieces.
  • Return to the oven and bake another hour or until fully dried.
  • Remove and let cool completely. The flakes will get a bit crunchier after cooling.
  • Keep in an airtight container.

Notes

These flakes are thicker and ‘cornier’ than the store-bought stuff.

Nutrition

Calories: 449kcal | Carbohydrates: 90g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 309mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 30IU | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Homemade Chipotles in Adobo

I go thru a lot of chipotles in adobo sauce. I have an entire section of one of my pantry shelves devoted to cans of them. So it occurred to me that I should try my hand at making them at home. These homemade chipotles in adobo came out fantastically. Great smoky flavor and a bit of heat. They do take a bit of time to prepare, but they are oh so worth the trouble.

Homemade Chipotles in Adobo

Smoke ‘Em First

First thing is to smoke the peppers. You want to get them good and smoked, too. You want that smoky flavor and lots of it. This is important. Don’t rush it.

Dry ‘Em Second

I dried my smoked jalapenos in my Nesco Snackmaster Pro dehydrator. If you don’t have a dehydrator you can place the jalapenos on a baking sheet and place in the oven at the lowest temperature setting. Rotate the jalapenos every few hours until dried. The chipotles were the star ingredient my Texas chipotle burgers and on my adobo Buffalo chicken wings!

You can also skip the smoking and drying of the jalapenos and buy dried chipotles at your marketplace. In our grocery store the dried peppers can be found by the produce section.

Lastly, Make The Adobo

This step is a bit more complicated, but it’s why you’re here. You rehydrate the peppers first. Some of them go into the blender to get pureed nice and smooth. Then everything comes together in a vinegary sauce that is out-of-this-world fantastic.

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

You can also make bacon bits using your Nesco Snackmaster Pro.

Chipotles in Adobo
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Homemade Chipotles in Adobo

These homemade chipotles in adobo came out fantastically. Great smoky flavor and a bit of heat. They do take a bit of time to prepare, but they are oh so worth the trouble.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword chipotle, sauce
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 days 8 hours
Total Time 2 days 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings 12 chipotles
Calories 22kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up a smoker for smoking at 250 F. Use a strong wood such as hickory.
  • Add the jalapenos to the smoker and smoke until browned and shriveled, at least 4 hours.
  • Remove and let cool slightly then transfer to a dehydrator and dry at 135 F for 24-48 hours or until completely dried.
  • Remove the stems (and seeds, if desired) and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Cover with hot water. Cover with a plate to weigh the peppers down into the water and let soak for 20 minutes.
  • Remove 4 of the peppers and transfer to a blender.
  • Add the tomato puree and honey and 1/2 cup of the soaking water.
  • Blend until you have a paste.
  • Take the remaining peppers and the soaking liquid and transfer to a pot. Add in the paste.
  • Add the onion, garlic, vinegar, salt and peppercorns.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and simmer for 1-2 hours until thick. If the sauce gets too thick add a bit of water.
  • Store in the freezer or use within a month.

Notes

You’ll definitely want extra trays for your dehydrator!

Nutrition

Calories: 22kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 105mg | Potassium: 161mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 265IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)

Save

Homemade Chicken Stock

I’m a big fan of making and using my own chicken stock. Homemade chicken stock is so much better than store-bought, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Since cooler months are here, I decided to haul out my Bayou Classic burner along with my Bayou Classic stockpot, which has an insert that makes it super simple to remove all the ‘stuff’ that goes into making great homemade chicken stock.

Homemade Chicken Stock

Save Your Trimmings

You can actually make stock for free, or close to free. Just keep the vegetable and chicken trimmings you accumulate thru the year in a bag or container in the freezer. Things like onion and carrot ends, less-than-ripe celery, and the tips off chicken wings make for great stock. They don’t have to be pretty. They’re going to cook all day and flavor the stock, and in the end, when they’ve served their purpose, they’ll be discarded.

I made a lot of chicken wings. When I trim them I end up with the tips that I don’t cook. And sometimes little trimmings. I save them for making stock, too.

Sadly, our cats do not like the chicken after the stock is made. Most of the flavor is gone from the meat since it’s in the liquid itself, so I can’t really blame them. But you can save it if you like.

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

I do not recommend adding salt to the stock as you make it. Save the salt for when you use the finished stock in recipes at a later time.

Also try my slow cooker chicken stock.

Homemade Chicken Stock
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Chicken Stock

You can actually make stock for free, or close to free. Just keep the vegetable and chicken trimmings you accumulate thru the year in a bag or container in the freezer.
Course Stock
Cuisine American
Keyword broth, chicken, homemade, stock
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 hours
Total Time 18 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4 quarts
Calories 407kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • Note: The following will fit into a 12-quart stock pot. You can double or triple the recipe for a larger stockpot.
  • 3-4 pounds chicken cut into pieces, rinsed (Note: I also save the tips when I make chicken wings. Freeze them and throw them into the pot when making stock)
  • 2 large onions skin on, quartered
  • 2 large carrots unpeeled, rinsed
  • 2 large celery ribs halved, rinsed
  • 12 peppercorns
  • 1 head garlic skin on, broken into cloves
  • water

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients into a stockpot.
  • Add enough water to cover and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to simmer and let simmer for 5-6 hours.
  • Scrape any fat off the top of the liquid.
  • Let pot cool for 2-3 hours then place in fridge overnight.
  • The following day, return pot to stove and heat until just warm.
  • Scrape any fat that is present if desired.
  • Strain liquid and use within 3 days.

Notes

Leftover stock and be frozen for later use. Keep in mind that the liquid expands as it freezes so do not over-fill your containers.

Nutrition

Calories: 407kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 145mg | Potassium: 571mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 6256IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 62mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Homemade Catalina Salad Dressing

We loved this simple and delicious homemade Catalina salad dressing. Why would you buy dressing at the store when you can make an even better version at home? Just toss some simple ingredients that you probably already have on-hand into a blender. Pulse a few times, then transfer to a Mason jar. You end up with a fantastic tasting dressing. And you have a healthier dressing for a fraction of the cost of store-bought.

For a little different flavor, substitute honey for the white sugar.

Homemade Catalina and Italian Salad Dressings

Homemade Dressings Are Always Better

On the right is my homemade Italian dressing. It’s not only great tasting too, it is also just as easy to make as this Catalina dressing.

Check out my new site, Dress My Salad, for more great salad dressing ideas!

Kakamono 2-pack Porous Squeeze Bottles,Leak Proof Refillable Condiment Container for Kitchen Use,Salad Dressings,top dispensers for ketchup mustard mayo hot sauces olive oil(10 oz)
Kakamono 2-pack Porous Squeeze Bottles,Leak Proof Refillable Condiment Container for Kitchen Use,Salad Dressings,top dispensers for ketchup mustard mayo hot sauces olive oil(10 oz)

This dressing is great on my Mason jar salad.

Homemade Catalina and Italian Salad Dressings
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Catalina Salad Dressing

We loved this simple and delicious homemade Catalina salad dressing. Why would you buy dressing at the store when you can make an even better version at home? Just toss some simple ingredients that you probably already have on-hand into a blender.
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword homemade salad dressing
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 cups
Calories 1434kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all but the onion in a blender.
  • Pulse a few times.
  • Add white onion to taste and blend until smooth.
  • Store in the fridge.

Notes

Stir or shake before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1434kcal | Carbohydrates: 122g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 110g | Saturated Fat: 89g | Sodium: 3062mg | Potassium: 277mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 117g | Vitamin A: 578IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Homemade Canadian Bacon

I was so happy with just how great this homemade Canadian bacon turned out. The flavor is fantastic and the meat is just the right amount of tenderness. Now, I just need to do a better job trimming the pork loin before I start! Despite my lack of butchering skills, I’d make this again and again.

Homemade Canadian Bacon

Wonderful Canadian Bacon

I loved this. I use it on my copycat Tiny Tim’s subs (creamy Italian dressing, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, Swiss, mozzarella, lettuce).

Canadian bacon on pizzas with a little pineapple is another favorite of mine. A slight variation on the traditional Hawaiian pizza. And of course this homemade Canadian bacon would be fantastic in an omelet or frittata.

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites. This time I used apple.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

Also try my homemade tasso.

Homemade Canadian Bacon
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Canadian Bacon

I was so happy with just how great this homemade Canadian bacon turned out. The flavor is fantastic and the meat is just the right amount of tenderness. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, homemade
Prep Time 3 days 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 days 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 2 pounds
Calories 1791kcal
Author From The Meatwave

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine 1 quart of water, the salt, syrup, brown sugar, curing salt, bay leaves, garlic and peppercorns in a large pot.
  • Bring to a boil, whisking to dissolve.
  • Boil for 1 minute then remove from heat.
  • Add 3 quarts of cold water.
  • Transfer the cool brine (if it is not cool, refrigerate for 30 minutes or so until it is) to a large sealable container.
  • Add the pork (It should be fully submerged) and seal.
  • Place in refrigerator for 3-5 days.
  • Fire up your smoker to cook at 225 F.
  • Add some light wood.
  • Meanwhile, remove the pork from the brine and rinse well.
  • Smoke pork over indirect heat for 2-3 hours until the meat reaches 140 F.
  • Let pork rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Go light on the smoke. It should not overpower the meat.

Nutrition

Calories: 1791kcal | Carbohydrates: 149g | Protein: 204g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 572mg | Sodium: 57058mg | Potassium: 3901mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 132g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 318mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

D.Q. Curing Salts - Pink Salt - 1 bag, 1 lb
D.Q. Curing Salts – Pink Salt – 1 bag, 1 lb

Homemade Applewood-Smoked Maple Bacon

Making bacon has been on my to-do list for a while now. I was able to find some nice pork belly in the butcher case, so I grabbed a few pounds and set off on making this homemade applewood-smoked maple bacon.

The end result was absolutely great. This is easily the best bacon I’ve ever had. There’s a hint of maple, a hint of smoke, and great texture and flavor. Outstandingly good and so easy that I will always make bacon from here on any time that I have my smoker going.

Homemade Applewood-Smoked Maple Bacon

Cheaper? Maybe. Better? Absolutely.

Price-wise, this homemade applewood-smoked maple bacon is also cheaper than store bought, and you can slice it any way that you like, from super thick to wafer thin. I think I paid about $1.99/pound for the pork. I did have to remove the skin (which I saved for making cracklins at a later time). That took a little effort. If you get your pork belly from a butcher you might want to ask to have the skin removed for you.

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites. I used apple for this bacon.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

Also try my Sriracha and chipotle bacon.

Homemade Applewood-Smoked Maple Bacon
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Applewood-Smoked Maple Bacon

Making bacon has been on my to-do list for a while now. I was able to find some nice pork belly in the butcher case, so I grabbed a few pounds and set off on making this homemade applewood-smoked maple bacon.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, homemade, smoked
Prep Time 7 days
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 7 days 2 hours
Servings 1 pound
Calories 5129kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Amazing Ribs

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pound pork belly skin removed (save for making cracklins). Choose a belly that is consistent in thickness so that it cooks evenly.
  • 3 teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon Pink Curing Salt
  • 3 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons maple syrup Grade B if you can find it, otherwise Grade A will work do
  • ½ cup cold water

Instructions

  • Put the belly into a large resealable bag.
  • Whisk together the remaining ingredients in a medium bowl.
  • Add to the baggie.
  • Seal the bag, trying to remove as much air as possible.
  • Place in to a deep flat pan (in case the bag leaks) in the fridge for 7 days, flipping over twice a day.
  • The day you are ready to smoke, fire up your smoker for 225 F cooking over a light wood such as apple.
  • Remove belly from the bag and rinse well with cold water.
  • Place belly onto smoker and smoke for 1 1/2-2 hours or until the meat reaches 150 F.
  • Remove belly from smoker and let cool slightly before placing in the fridge for an hour.
  • Slice bacon as desired.
  • Bake, pan fry, or use however you wish!
  • Store smoked bacon in a plastic bag or container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Store bacon long-term in the freezer. For best flavor, use vacuum-sealed bags for storage.

Nutrition

Calories: 5129kcal | Carbohydrates: 108g | Protein: 85g | Fat: 481g | Saturated Fat: 175g | Cholesterol: 653mg | Sodium: 7285mg | Potassium: 2061mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 95g | Vitamin A: 124IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 227mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

D.Q. Curing Salts - Pink Salt - 1 bag, 1 lb
D.Q. Curing Salts – Pink Salt – 1 bag, 1 lb

Chipotle Bacon

This is the first year that I’ve been experimenting with curing my own meats to make bacon and jerky. I’ve found the processes to be much easier than I had expected, and the end results to be far, far better than I could’ve ever dreamed. It all started when I bought a small pork belly and made homemade applewood-smoked maple bacon. After that success, I contacted my local butcher at Moody’s Butcher Shop and ordered two pork sides. As I soon found out, a pork side (seen below) is like a pork belly but oh so much bigger and thicker and perfect. It screams bacon. It screams chipotle bacon.

Chipotle Bacon

Subtle, But Fantastic

This chipotle bacon had a mild chipotle flavor. The first time I made it I was way too shy with the chipotle, and although it was fantastic, it didn’t have much of that great smoky chipotle flavor. I recommend you be quite liberal with the chipotle peppers. We aren’t making cheesecake here. Use a lot of chipotle.

Blows Store-Bought Bacon Away

I am so hooked on homemade bacon I know I’ll never go back to store-bought. Not only is homemade tastier, I can make whatever flavor combination I want. I usually do a few big batches all at once, freezing any leftovers for later use.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

Also try my Sriracha bacon and my black pepper bacon.

Chipotle Bacon
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Chipotle Bacon

This chipotle bacon had a mild chipotle flavor. The first time I made it I was way too shy with the chipotle, and although it was fantastic, it didn’t have much of that great smoky chipotle flavor.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, homemade, spicy
Prep Time 7 days
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 7 days 2 hours
Servings 1 pound
Calories 4780kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Amazing Ribs

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Put the belly into a large resealable bag.
  • Whisk together the remaining ingredients in a medium bowl. Add to the baggie.
  • Seal the bag, trying to remove as much air as possible. Place in to a deep flat pan (in case the bag leaks) in the fridge for 7 days, flipping over twice a day.
  • The day you are ready to smoke, fire up your smoker for 225 F cooking over a light wood such as apple.
  • Remove belly from the bag and rinse well with cold water.
  • Place belly onto smoker and smoke for 1 1/2-2 hours or until the meat reaches 150 F.
  • Remove belly from smoker and let cool slightly before placing in the fridge for an hour.
  • Slice bacon as desired. Bake, pan fry, or use however you wish!
  • Store smoked bacon in a plastic bag or container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Scale the recipe for your pork belly. The recipe below is for a 2 pound belly.

Nutrition

Calories: 4780kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 85g | Fat: 481g | Saturated Fat: 175g | Cholesterol: 653mg | Sodium: 8522mg | Potassium: 1759mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 5074IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 8mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

D.Q. Curing Salts - Pink Salt - 1 bag, 1 lb
D.Q. Curing Salts – Pink Salt – 1 bag, 1 lb