Have you ever wanted to try your hand at making your own bacon at home? Or maybe you’ve been craving a mouthwatering batch of pork belly burnt ends. Finding a nice slab of uncured pork belly can sometimes be a challenge. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore some common places where you can find top-quality pork belly near you, as well as a few trusted online butchers that we highly recommend.
Things to Consider When Buying Pork Belly
Before you embark on your hunt for the perfect pork belly, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. Whether you’re planning to make bacon or experimenting with other delicious dishes, these considerations will ensure you make the best purchase.
1. Source
It’s crucial to know where the hogs that provide the pork belly come from. Opting for organically fed, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free meat is always a healthier choice. If you’re unsure about the source, websites like Crowd Cow or Porter Road provide detailed information about their animals’ upbringing. For example, Porter Road’s Heritage Pork Belly is pasture-raised and free from antibiotics, hormones, and GMOs. By choosing the right source, you can enhance the health benefits of your homemade bacon.
2. Quality of Meat
Different breeds of hogs offer distinct flavors. Heritage breeds such as Berkshire, Duroc, and Kurobuta are known for their bold and meaty tastes. Just one look at the high-quality meat from Porter Road in the photo below, and you’ll understand why it’s worth considering the breed when buying pork belly.
3. Cost and Size
Decide on your budget and how much pork belly you need. Making bacon at home is often more cost-effective than purchasing it from the store. However, keep in mind that some suppliers may require you to buy the full pork belly, which usually weighs around 10 – 12 lbs. Ensure you have enough freezer space to accommodate it.
Where to Buy Pork Belly
Now that we’ve considered these important factors, let’s explore the best places to find pork belly.
Locally
Start your search for pork belly at local stores and markets. It’s always nice to inspect each belly personally to ensure you’re getting one with plenty of meat. While many supermarkets don’t typically carry pork belly, you can ask the butcher if they can order it for you. If not, here are a few other places to try:
- Costco: They sell whole and sliced bellies.
- Local Butcher Shop
- Whole Foods
- Local Ethnic Stores or Asian Markets
(Tip: If you have enough freezer space, consider buying by the case, as it’s usually more cost-effective.)
Where to Buy Pork Belly Online
If you can’t find pork belly locally or prefer the convenience of online shopping, several reputable companies deliver it anywhere in the continental United States. Although online options tend to be slightly more expensive, the high-quality meat you’ll receive is well worth it. Let’s take a look at two trusted online butchers:
1. Porter Road
Porter Road sources their animals from small farms in Tennessee and Kentucky. Their pork belly comes in at a weight between 2.75-3.25 lbs. The pasture-raised and hormone-free pork belly they offer boasts a wonderful color and taste.
2. Crowd Cow
- Heritage Pork Belly
- Weight: 3 lbs.
- Skinless
- Limited Quantity
Pork Belly Recipes
Now that you know where to find the best pork belly, it’s time to unleash your culinary skills! Here are some fantastic recipes to enjoy on your grill or smoker:
- BBQ pork belly
- Porchetta-style Pork Belly
- Pork Belly Burnt Ends
- Hot Honey Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Just remember to consider the source, quality of meat, cost, and size before making your purchase. By doing so, you’ll be able to create bacon that’s not only cheaper and healthier but also more delicious than anything you can buy at the store. So go ahead, get that pork belly, and start cooking up a storm!