Using Cheesecloth for Pancetta
I am making pancetta for the first time and I've just taken it out of the cure to dry. I have rolled it and am ready to hang it. Before I hang it, what are the pros and cons of wrapping it in cheesecloth while it dries? The recipe I am using says to cover it in cheesecloth when laying flat to dry, but nothing about wrapping it in cheesecloth to hang it.
Best Answer
I've made pancetta many times. When rolling, I just tie with a string. Traditionally, it is just tied off. Personally, I prefer the results when I just hang it without rolling...poke a hole, loop a string, hang...but that is just personal preference. The only downside I can see to the cheese cloth, is that it might slightly slow the drying process. Other than that, as long as you are working clean, I can't see a problem with it, but I am not sure it really helps you in any significant way. Perhaps you could get a tighter roll with a sheet of cheesecloth?
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Wrap the belly in 3 layers of cheesecloth. Wrap a length of twine around the pancetta about an inch from one end, and tie it off with a square knot, leaving a foot or so of loose twine on one end. Make a loop with the twine. Wrap the loop over the far end of the pancetta.What does a cheese cloth do meat?
It is used as a strainer when a fine sieve is needed, as a cover for roast turkey or chicken to keep the bird moist, and is made into little pouches for herbs for seasoning meats, broth, soups, and other dishes. Cheesecloth is something we may not often have in our kitchen.How do you tie pancetta?
Pancetta is made from pork belly. Any rib bones must be removed and the skin left on. To make great tasting pancetta, you need to start with the freshest meat you can find.Do you cut the skin off pancetta?
If you are dead set on making pancetta without it, make the flat (tesa) kind. It's much safer. The thick layer of black pepper (a natural antibiotic), rolled into the pancetta, also aids in preventing bacterial growth and rot.Cheesecloth Fabric Product Guide | What is Cheesecloth?
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Answer 2
Cheese cloth would actually be great as it will inhibit some bugs getting to the meat while still being porous enough as to not let the meat sweat.
If your hanging in the summer it is a good thing to cover the meat with something. You just need a substance that lets the meat breath. If it is just a regular bag the meat can sweat and this could open the door for spoilage bacteria to enter.
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