How to Make Canadian Bacon

Canadian bacon is a cut of meat from the loin of the pig, located on the middle back. In Canada, it is simply referred to as back bacon. Canadian bacon is typically enjoyed as a breakfast side, on pizza or in sandwiches, and is made by curing and smoking pork loins. Using this easy method, you can make 1 lb. of Canadian bacon at home.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tbsp. Tender Quick
• 1 tsp. brown sugar
• 1 tsp. Montreal Steak Seasoning
• 1 lb. boneless pork loin
• Meat tenderizer
• Thick string
• Resealable plastic bags
• Smoker
• Meat thermometer

Instructions

1. Combine Tender Quick, brown sugar and Montreal steak seasoning in a small dish.

2. Tenderize one pound of pork loin using a meat tenderizer. Pound each side at least three times with the tool. This allows the seasonings to quickly penetrate the pork loin.

3. Coat the pork loin with the prepared seasoning. Rub it in well and apply an even coat to the entire loin. Tie a thick string around the meat to create a roughly round shape and keep it from falling apart.

4. Place the pork loin into a resealable plastic bag and put it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This allows the pork enough time to cure.

5. Remove the pork loin from the refrigerator after the 24-hour period. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry for 25 to 30 minutes. Move the pork into a prepared smoker and secure the lid.

6. Check the internal temperature of the pork every hour using a meat thermometer. Smoke the meat until it has reached a temperature of 160 degrees F. It takes an average of 4 hours, but depending on wind speeds and temperature, it could be longer.

7. Allow the meat to cool on the rack with the lid open after smoking. Move it inside when it is cool enough to be handled, and then allow it to cool to room temperature. The Canadian bacon is now prepared and can be frozen or cooked immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Use your favorite variety of wood chips in your smoker. Applewood, hickory and mesquite are popular for use with Canadian bacon. Salt cure and sugar can be used as a substitute for Montreal Steak Seasoning.