Applewood Bacon

Ingredients

• 1 pork belly from the loin end
• 2 cups salt
• 2 cups white granulated sugar
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 gallon iced water
• to taste applewood chunks

Steps

1. In a large pot, bring to apple cider to boil.
2. Stir in salt and sugar until dissolved.
3. Transfer cider mixture to a very large container.
4. Add iced water.
5. Once ice has melted and brine is cool enough, submerge the pork belly in the brine.
6. Refrigerate for 3 days.
7. Remove belly.
8. Place on top of a running box fan for 30 minutes per side to dry out.
9. Place dry applewood chunks in the firebox of a cold smoker.
10. Insert pork belly and smoke for 3–4 hours.
11. Remove from smoker.
12. Place in the freezer for up to 2 hours.
13. Slice bacon as thick or as thin as you like.
14. Cook or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.