Homemade Cured Pancetta

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Homemade Cured Pancetta.

1. Step 1

   Start by mixing together a small bowl of red wine and chopped garlic, then set it aside for later.

2. Step 2

   Next, grab your spice grinder or mortar and pestle, and combine allspice berries, juniper berries, whole cloves, black peppercorns, fennel seeds, white peppercorns, and red pepper flakes.

3. Step 3

   Grind these aromatic spices into a fine powder that will elevate your dish.

4. Step 4

   In a separate bowl, blend the ground spices with salt, Prague Powder #2, and freshly grated nutmeg until everything is well incorporated.

5. Step 5

   Now, take your pork belly and place it in a glass or ceramic dish.

6. Step 6

   Generously coat every side of the pork belly with your spice mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered for maximum flavor.

7. Step 7

   Pour the wine and garlic mixture over the pork belly, spreading it evenly to infuse the meat with deliciousness.

8. Step 8

   To create the perfect curing environment, cover the pork belly with a wire rack and drape a large piece of muslin over the top.

9. Step 9

   This setup keeps the muslin from touching the meat, allowing for proper curing.

10. Step 10

    Now, it’s time for patience—refrigerate the pork belly for two weeks, letting the flavors meld and the meat cure to perfection.

11. Step 11

    After the two weeks have passed, take the pancetta out of the fridge.

12. Step 12

    Slice it to your liking and use it in your favorite recipes, or pan-fry it just like bacon for a delightful treat.

13. Step 13

    Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor the rich flavors you’ve created!.