Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple process of turning beef belly into delicious beef bacon. Patience is key, but the results are totally worth it! Here’s how to do it:

In a small bowl, combine your kosher salt, pink curing salt (if using), brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. This is the flavor base for your bacon, so don’t rush this step!

Lay the beef belly flat on a clean surface. Gently rub the curing mixture all over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Don’t forget to cover the edges as well! The cure will draw out moisture, so make sure it’s thoroughly absorbed into the meat.

Once the meat is coated, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in a shallow pan or dish to catch any liquids that may be released during the curing process. Refrigerate the beef belly for at least 5 days, flipping it once a day. This curing period is essential for achieving that classic beef bacon flavor.

After 5 days, remove the beef belly from the fridge and rinse off any excess cure under cold water. Pat the meat dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for getting a crispy finish when you cook the bacon.

You have two options for cooking your homemade beef bacon:

Smoking Method (Preferred for Flavor):

Preheat your smoker to around 200°F (95°C).

Place the beef belly on the smoker rack, fat side up.

Smoke for 2–3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C). The longer you smoke, the richer the flavor!

Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).

Place the beef belly on a baking rack over a lined sheet pan, fat side up.

Bake for 2.5–3 hours, checking periodically until the internal temperature hits 150°F (65°C).

Once cooked, let the beef bacon cool slightly before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your bacon stays juicy yet crispy when you cut it.

For the best results, slice the bacon thinly with a sharp knife. You’ll get that crispy, melt-in-your-mouth texture perfect for any meal. Fry the slices in a pan for extra crispness if desired!