Bellies?

[damon555]

If I end up having to buy a case of pork bellies to make bacon is it acceptable to freeze what I don't use? Does this affect the quality of the bacon after it's been frozen and thawed?

 

[jarhead]

I've never done it that way, but as long as it's fresh, I don't see a problem.

You might check with your butcher and see if he will flash freeze it or freeze part of it for you.

It will take a long time to freeze 2 or 3 bellies.

 

[daveomak]

I bought a case a few weeks ago....  60#'s... my butcher vac'd each one individually at no extra charge....   I don't think freezing will make a difference since we are basically drying out the meat with the salt and the long smoke....  I am planning on cutting the belly into thirds to try different recipes of spices....  they will all be cured the same (salt, cure, maple sugar)..... Just add different spices after the cure is on...  Dave

 

[smokeamotive]

If it's vacuum packed it should keep quite well.

 

[southernsausage]

got some curing now and another batch going on to cure tonight...