Do i need to form the pellicle?

[mattyoc20]

My bacon has been in the fridge uncovered since fridayy night.  I was hoping that the pellicle would form by now, but it hasnt.  I was planning on smoking today but dont no if i should with out the pelicle forming.  How much longer will it take do you guys think.  I was hoping to let it rest a couple days and eat christmas  Doenst look that is going to happen,  THanks for the help

 

[dirtsailor2003]

You need some air flow over the bacon to get the pellicle to form. I bet if you pull it out and put it in front of a fan for a hour it'll start forming.

 

[mattyoc20]

will it be alright sitting out at room temp?  I do nnot have a big enoguh fridge put in a fan.  and it is unseaonably warm today.  About 70 degrees?  Thanks for the quick response

 

[backsmokin]

That's what the cure is for. Cover with paper towels lightly (Golden Retriever fur is an issue in my home) to prevent surface contamination

 

[driedstick]

Well did it form and turn out for you??

 

[mattyoc20]

I guess it did I'm not really sure what it is supposed to look or feel like but I smoked it for 22 hours and it was awesome

 

[daveomak]

I guess it did I'm not really sure what it is supposed to look or feel like but I smoked it for 22 hours and it was awesome

Excellent that you liked the bacon..... The pellicle should be "dry" to the touch... kind of have a shiny surface... It's made up of the water soluble proteins that have dried on the surface of the meat... or something like that...

Dave

 

[delfuegosr]

Just my opinion, but I have made BB bacon with and without a pellicle, and the pieces with the pellicle smoked much better and tasted better than without. Supposed to help retain more smokey flavor, I have read... I must concur.