We know everyone loves bacon. We love it, too. That’s why we always try to sneak it into our Meat CSA whenever we can. And this week, we’re sending out something extra special—Jowl Bacon.
If you’ve never cooked with jowl bacon before, you’re in for a treat. It’s the fattiest of the bacons (which, let’s be honest, makes it the best) and has this deep, almost smoky-sweet flavor that’s a little different from the bacon you’re used to. It still gets crispy and delicious, but the extra marbling makes it melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Now, of course, you can just fry it up like regular bacon. That’s never a bad idea. But if you want to branch out, here are a few other ways to use it—especially now that it’s finally chilly outside and we’re all leaning into comfort food season.
Jowl Bacon + Beans = A Perfect Pair
There’s a reason why Southern cooks have been using jowl bacon in slow-simmered beans forever. Dice it up, render it down, and let all that smoky, salty goodness infuse a pot of black-eyed peas, pinto beans, or even lentils. Add some cornbread, and you’ve got a meal that sticks with you.
Soup Season’s Secret Ingredient
Soup just tastes better when you start with a little jowl bacon. Whether it’s potato soup, a brothy bean stew, or even a chowder, adding a few crispy bits (plus some of that flavorful fat) gives it a whole new depth.
Roasted Vegetables, But Better
Next time you’re roasting Brussels sprouts, carrots, or potatoes, toss them in a spoonful of jowl bacon drippings instead of oil. They’ll crisp up beautifully and take on that rich, smoky flavor.
Pasta Night Upgrade
Ever made carbonara? It’s that rich, creamy pasta dish that usually calls for pancetta. But here’s the thing—jowl bacon is way better. It has more fat (which means more flavor), and it makes the silkiest sauce when you toss it with eggs, cheese, and pasta water.
Next-Level Grilled Cheese
Crispy jowl bacon + a gooey grilled cheese = perfection. Try it with a sharp cheddar or something a little funky like gouda. Bonus points if you add a swipe of whole-grain mustard.
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Whether you’re getting some in your CSA share this week or want to snag a pack as a custom order, jowl bacon is one of those cuts that deserves a little extra love. And we love making sure our pasture-raised pork goes to folks who appreciate every bit of it.
If you’ve got a favorite way to cook jowl bacon, let us know—we’re always up for swapping ideas. Enjoy!