Smoked Canadian Bacon in the Oven: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Are you craving the rich, smoky flavor of Canadian bacon but don’t have a smoker? Don’t worry – you can still achieve that delicious taste by smoking Canadian bacon in the oven. This simple method allows you to enjoy the irresistible flavor of smoked Canadian bacon without needing any specialized equipment. In this article, we’ll walk you through the easy steps to create your own mouthwatering smoked Canadian bacon right in your oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound of pork loin
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pink curing salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Loin: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork loin. Then, place it in a large resealable plastic bag.
2. Create the Brine: In a bowl, mix together the kosher salt, maple syrup, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you’re using pink curing salt, add it to the mixture as well. This brine will infuse the pork loin with flavor and help it retain moisture during the smoking process.
3. Coat the Pork Loin: Pour the brine into the bag with the pork loin, ensuring that the meat is completely covered. Seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator to brine for 3-5 days. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
4. Preheat the Oven: After the brining period, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). This low temperature will gently smoke the Canadian bacon without cooking it too quickly.
5. Smoke the Canadian Bacon: Remove the pork loin from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the loin on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loin to monitor the internal temperature.
6. Cook Until Done: Place the pork loin in the preheated oven and smoke it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This process typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the loin.
7. Rest and Slice: Once the Canadian bacon reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Then, slice the Canadian bacon thinly and enjoy!
Benefits of Smoking Canadian Bacon in the Oven:
- Convenience: You don't need a specialized smoker to achieve the delicious flavor of smoked Canadian bacon.
- Control: By smoking Canadian bacon in the oven, you can closely monitor the cooking process and ensure the perfect level of smokiness.
- Flavor: The combination of the sweet and savory brine infuses the Canadian bacon with irresistible flavor.
Now that you know how to smoke Canadian bacon in the oven, you can enjoy this delectable treat whenever the craving strikes. Whether you use it in breakfast dishes, sandwiches, or as a savory snack, your homemade smoked Canadian bacon is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate your culinary creations.