If you are a fan of Italian cuisine, then you are probably familiar with guanciale. This delicious cured pork cheek is a key ingredient in many traditional dishes such as pasta carbonara and amatriciana. Making your own homemade guanciale can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making pork guanciale at home.

What You Will Need

  • 3 pounds of pork jowl
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pink curing salt
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Airtight container
  • Cheesecloth or paper towels
  • Butcher’s twine

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Jowl

Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork jowl, leaving a thin layer to ensure proper curing. Rinse the jowl under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Create the Curing Mixture

In a bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, sugar, pink curing salt, and minced garlic. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Apply the Cure to the Pork Jowl

Generously coat the pork jowl with the curing mixture, making sure to cover all sides. Massage the mixture into the meat to ensure even distribution. Place the jowl in an airtight container and refrigerate for 7-10 days, flipping it every other day.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Guanciale

After the curing period, remove the jowl from the container and rinse off any remaining curing mixture under cold water. Pat the jowl dry with paper towels and let it air dry for a few hours until the surface feels tacky to the touch.

Step 5: Tie and Hang the Guanciale

Cut a piece of butcher’s twine long enough to tie around the jowl. Create a loop at one end of the twine and slip it over one end of the jowl. Tie the twine tightly around the jowl, leaving a length of twine to hang it. Hang the guanciale in a cool, dry place with good airflow for about 3 weeks.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Once your guanciale is fully cured, remove it from the hanging area and untie the butcher’s twine. Using a sharp knife, slice the guanciale into thin pieces. Now, you are ready to use your homemade pork guanciale in your favorite Italian recipes!

Learning how to make homemade pork guanciale allows you to infuse your dishes with an authentic Italian flavor. It may seem like a lengthy process, but the result is definitely worth the effort. Give it a try and elevate your Italian cooking to a whole new level!

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