Are you looking for a delicious and hearty meal to satisfy your hunger? Look no further! Salt pork, also known as bacon or pancetta, is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and texture to a wide variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory salt pork recipes from around the world that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic Southern comfort food to international twists, these recipes showcase the rich flavor of salt pork in all its forms. Whether you’re a fan of crispy fried pork or slow-cooked stews, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the magic of salt pork!
Classic Southern Fried Salt Pork with Gravy
This hearty recipe yields a crispy, golden-brown pork dish smothered in rich, creamy gravy – the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salt-cured pork loin or shoulder, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for gravy)
– 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip pork in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry pork until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Transfer pork to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and pour chicken broth over the top. Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
7. Whisk in heavy cream and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
New England Salt Pork and Bean Bake
This hearty dish combines tender salt pork with creamy beans and sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked navy beans
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine salt pork, navy beans, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Mix well to distribute ingredients evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 2 hours, or until sweet potatoes are tender and salt pork is crispy.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Crispy Salt Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Salt pork adds a rich, savory flavor to this quick and easy stir-fry, paired with crunchy cabbage and a hint of garlic. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 pound salt pork, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced salt pork and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the cooked salt pork to the pan and stir to combine with the cabbage.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Salt Pork with Root Vegetables
This hearty dish is a perfect example of comfort food at its finest. The slow-cooked salt pork and root vegetables meld together to create a rich, savory flavor profile that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless salt pork
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the salt pork with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the salt pork, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour in the chicken broth until the ingredients are covered.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Salt Pork and Potato Hash Breakfast Skillet
Salt Pork and Potato Hash Breakfast Skillet: A hearty and savory breakfast dish that combines crispy salt pork with tender potatoes and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced salt pork and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
5. Create four wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cook the eggs until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
7. Serve the Salt Pork and Potato Hash Breakfast Skillet hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Portuguese Feijoada with Salt Pork
Feijoada is a hearty Portuguese stew that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights. This recipe combines tender salt pork, creamy beans, and aromatic spices to create a rich and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine salt pork, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pork is golden brown and crispy (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the soaked black beans, chicken broth, white wine (if using), cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight, until the pork is tender and the beans are creamy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Salt Pork and Collard Greens Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Southern comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. The rich flavor of salt pork pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter taste of collard greens, making this a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 bunches collard greens, chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the salt pork in a large pot over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Split Pea Soup with Salt Pork
This traditional recipe combines the comforting flavors of split peas, salt pork, and aromatics to create a nourishing and flavorful soup. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 pounds salt pork, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 cups water
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, salt pork, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the split peas, water, and carrots (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Salt Pork and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of salt pork with the sweetness of cornbread. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, diced
– 2 medium ears of corn, kernels removed
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced salt pork over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, buttermilk, and egg to the dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer the cooked salt pork, corn kernels, and cornbread batter in the prepared dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern-Style Salt Pork and Black-Eyed Peas
This classic Southern dish is a hearty and flavorful combination of tender salt pork, sweet black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Southern-style dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine salt pork, black-eyed peas, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that all ingredients are covered.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until pork is tender and peas are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Salt Pork and Apple Stuffing
This stuffing combines the rich flavors of salt pork with the sweetness of apples, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup diced salt pork (or pancetta), cooked and crumbled
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 apples, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled salt pork and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the bread, apple, and cooked salt pork mixture.
5. Dot with butter and sprinkle with sage, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French-Canadian Tourtière with Salt Pork
Tourtière is a traditional French-Canadian dish that’s perfect for the holidays. This savory pie filled with salt pork, beef, and vegetables is a staple at many Quebecois tables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, diced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the salt pork and ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add the onion, garlic, flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in butter, chicken broth, and water.
5. Roll out one pie crust to fit a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Fill the crust with the meat mixture and top with another pie crust.
7. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits in the top crust for steam escape.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Salt Pork and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky salt pork and nutritious lentils, simmered to perfection in a rich broth. A classic combination that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork (rind removed), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine salt pork, onion, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add lentils, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
German-Style Salt Pork and Sauerkraut
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of salt pork with the tangy zip of sauerkraut, perfect for a cozy German-inspired meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both authentic and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, rind removed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place the salt pork in the skillet and brown on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the salt pork is tender.
6. Meanwhile, combine the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper in a separate pot. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve the salt pork with the sauerkraut and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Salt Pork and Clam Chowder
This hearty chowder recipe combines the rich flavors of salt pork with tender clams, potatoes, and vegetables for a comforting soup perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and savory taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of clams, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add salt pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in clam juice, milk or cream, potatoes, and clams. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caribbean Salt Pork and Rice with Pigeon Peas
This hearty dish is a staple of Caribbean cuisine, combining the rich flavors of salt pork, aromatic spices, and creamy pigeon peas. It’s perfect for a comforting meal or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, diced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 1 cup pigeon peas (or black-eyed peas)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced salt pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, pigeon peas, chicken broth, curry powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salt Pork and Butternut Squash Risotto
Salt Pork and Butternut Squash Risotto: A Hearty Fall Comfort Food Recipe
This creamy risotto is a perfect blend of savory salt pork, sweet butternut squash, and Arborio rice. It’s an ideal fall recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Salt Pork (such as pancetta or Canadian bacon), diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium Butternut Squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the salt pork over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
3. Add olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the butternut squash, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Add Arborio rice, vegetable broth, and white wine (if using). Cook, stirring constantly, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
5. Stir in butter, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Smoky Salt Pork and White Bean Cassoulet
This hearty, slow-cooked casserole combines tender pork shoulder with creamy white beans and smoky flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder in the olive oil over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the white beans, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and the beans are creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 savory salt pork recipes! From classic Southern-style fried salt pork to hearty bean bakes and comforting stews, there’s something for everyone. Try making a crispy salt pork and cabbage stir-fry, or slow-cook it with root vegetables for a tender treat. Salt pork also makes a delicious addition to breakfast skillets, casseroles, and soups. With inspiration from around the world, including Portugal, France, and Germany, you’ll find new favorite recipes to add to your culinary repertoire.
