Xiangxi bacon is a traditional cuisine of Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hunan Province, with a long history and unique production technology. It is not only one of the main foods for local people, but also an important part of Chinese culinary culture. In this article, we will introduce you the production method and cultural background of western Hunan bacon.

I. History and cultural background of western Hunan bacon

The history of western Hunan bacon can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty, when the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups started to make bacon. During the Song Dynasty, western Hunan bacon had become one of the main foods for local people. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, western Hunan bacon began to spread outward and became a nationally acclaimed delicacy.

The production process of western Hunan bacon is very unique, which utilizes traditional curing and smoking techniques. First, the pork is cut into appropriately sized pieces and then cured with salt, sugar, wine, pepper and other seasonings for several days to make it flavorful. Next, the cured pork is hung in a well-ventilated place to dry, and then smoked over a wood fire to turn it into golden-colored bacon.

2. Steps of Making Xiangxi Bacon

1. Preparing Materials

The following materials are needed to make Xiangxi bacon:

Pork

Salt

Sugar

Wine

Peppercorns

Chips

Chaiwu

2. Cutting and Curing

Cut the pork into pieces of appropriate size, then marinate it with salt, sugar, wine, peppercorns and other seasonings for several days to make it flavorful.

3. Drying

Hang the marinated pork in a well-ventilated place to dry, which usually takes 3-5 days.

4. Smoking

Smoke the dried pork over a wood fire to turn it into golden brown bacon.

3. How to eat western Hunan bacon

Western Hunan bacon can be eaten as a main dish or side dish, or as a snack to get high. It has a delicious taste, tough meat, and a unique flavor that brings back memories.

In western Hunan, people usually cut bacon into thin slices or small pieces, cook it and serve it with seasonings such as garlic paste and chili oil as a delicious dish for drinking. In addition, western Hunan bacon can also be used as an ingredient in hot pot or shredded for stir-fry.

Four, ending

Xiangxi bacon is a treasure of food culture inherited for thousands of years, which not only represents the traditional culture of Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in Hunan Province, but also is an important part of China's culinary culture. We hope that through the introduction of this article, more people will understand the production method and cultural background of Xiangxi bacon, and feel the unique charm of Chinese cuisine.