I have been making Bacon for a number of years and have always used Pork Belly's from Costco. I've have always been satisfied with the result but have started to wonder about other pig breeds. I've read that Tamworth, Berkshire, Large Black and Red waddle were ones to consider.
My question to you is what Pig Breeds do you consider the best to make Bacon from. Any other comments about different cuts from the breed would also be appreciated.
I like Mangalitsa and Gloucester Old Spot breeds. They can often have quite a high fat to meat ratio compared to some other breeds which is not necessarily to everyone’s taste, however I like them. I can post a picture of some Mangalitsa bacon I’ve had in England if that’s of interest to you, just let me know 👍
I have used a Kurobuta pork belly (Berkshire) once before and it was excellent. But haven't had the chance to use any other breeds. Mostly just Costco bellies.
We've done Tamworths a couple of years. No complaints, and plenty of belly because of the way they're built. Probably no complaints about the others listed above either!
I've used supermarket pork and Large Black in the past, but now primarily use Berkshire. Since I'm always tinkering with the seasonings I've never had a chance to do a side-by-side comparison of one breed vs. another. The supermarket pork and Berkshire both work great, but I have been unimpressed with the Large Black. However, my Large Black producer raises their pigs entirely on a pasture so the differences may be due to a grass fed vs. grain fed diet rather than a difference in breed.
I really appreciate all the comments. I have one source for Heritage pigs in the Portland Or area. I think I need to see who raises them for a source. Please keep the comments coming.
Grill/Smoke/Roast = SnS Grills Kettle + SnS Deluxe Insert & Drip n' Griddle
Grill/Smoke/Roast = Hasty-Bake Gourmet Dual Finish with HB rotisserie and Grill Grates
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