Side pork is a wonderfully flavorful cut from the pork belly, often described as “bacon on steroids” because of its extra juiciness and rich taste. If you love bacon but want to try something even more indulgent, side pork is your go-to. Whether you want to pan-fry, roast, or grill it, this guide will walk you through the best ways to cook side pork to crispy, golden perfection.
What Is Side Pork?
Side pork is essentially pork belly sliced into strips, uncured and unprocessed, unlike bacon which is cured with nitrates and smoked. This makes side pork a great choice if you want a more natural, preservative-free option with a deep pork flavor and luscious fat content. It’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or adding richness to recipes.
Preparing Side Pork for Cooking
Before cooking, preparation is key:
– Pat dry the side pork slices with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps achieve a crispy crust.
– Season generously with salt and pepper. Since side pork is unprocessed, salt is essential to bring out the flavor.
– Optionally, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
– If cooking a whole slab, scoring the skin in a crisscross pattern helps render the fat and crisp the skin.
How to Cook Side Pork
1. Pan-Frying (The Classic Method)
Pan-frying side pork is quick, easy, and yields crispy, golden slices.
– Heat a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat.
– Lay the side pork strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding.
– Cook on medium-low to medium heat, turning occasionally for even browning.
– Render the fat slowly so the meat crisps without burning.
– Once golden and crisp, remove from pan and drain on paper towels.
– Sprinkle with a little more salt if desired.
– Save the rendered fat for cooking eggs, frying vegetables, or making gravy.
2. Oven-Baking for Crispy Strips
If you prefer a hands-off method:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Arrange side pork slices on a wire rack set over a baking tray.
– Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the pork is crispy and golden.
– Flip halfway through for even cooking.
– Let rest briefly before serving.
3. Grilling for Smoky Flavor
Grilling side pork adds a delicious smoky char:
– Preheat grill to medium-high.
– Place seasoned side pork strips directly on the grates.
– Grill for about 8-10 minutes per side until cooked through and nicely charred.
– Let rest before slicing.
4. Slow Simmering for Tender Side Meat
For a different approach, especially if you have a thicker cut:
– Season the pork well.
– Sear in a hot skillet until browned on all sides.
– Add chopped onions, carrots, and stock to cover halfway.
– Simmer covered on low heat for 2-3 hours until tender.
– Serve with the cooked vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Side Pork
– Use a cast iron skillet if possible; it retains heat well and helps render fat evenly.
– Adjust heat carefully: too high burns the meat, too low causes it to boil in its own juices, making it tough.
– Side pork can splatter more than bacon, so be cautious while cooking.
– Save the rendered pork fat-it’s a flavorful cooking fat that can be refrigerated or frozen for future use.
– Serve side pork fresh and hot for the best texture and flavor.
How to Enjoy Side Pork
Side pork is incredibly versatile:
– Eat it plain for a rich, meaty breakfast treat.
– Use it in sandwiches with mayo, lettuce, and tomato.
– Substitute it in recipes calling for bacon.
– Use the saved fat to cook eggs, fry potatoes, or make savory gravies.
Side pork is a delicious alternative to bacon, offering a richer, juicier experience with simple cooking methods that anyone can master. Whether pan-fried, oven-baked, or grilled, it’s a flavorful cut that deserves a place in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with this tasty pork belly treat!
Deliciously crispy and packed with flavor, side pork is a must-try for pork lovers looking to elevate their meals.