Homemade Ralph Paul Adams Bacon Scrapple Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Breakfast Meat

Introduction

Ralph Paul Adams Bacon Scrapple is a beloved breakfast staple, cherished for its savory blend of meats, grains, and spices. Originating from the Mid-Atlantic region, scrapple has become a morning favorite, often sliced and pan-fried to a golden crisp. This homemade version captures the essence of the original while offering a healthier profile and customization options, allowing you to tweak ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting scrapple at home provides the advantage of using fresher, higher-quality ingredients. It allows for reduced sodium content and the flexibility to choose leaner meats or alternative grains. Plus, homemade scrapple can be cost-effective and tailored to your taste buds, whether you prefer it spicier or with a smoky twist.

Personal Anecdote

I first encountered scrapple during a visit to Philadelphia, where it was served alongside eggs and toast. Intrigued by its unique texture and flavor, I decided to recreate it at home. After experimenting with various ingredients and cooking techniques, I developed a recipe that not only mimics the original but also offers a healthier alternative. My family now enjoys a scrapple that's both nutritious and delicious, made right in our kitchen.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:25 minutes
• **Cook Time:35 minutes
• **Total Time:60 minutes
• **Yield:8 slices

Ingredients

Meat and Aromatics:

• 1 pound (450g) lean ground pork
• 6 slices (180g) of bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Spices:

• 2 teaspoons (10g) sage
• 1 teaspoon (5g) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) paprika

Grains and Liquid:

• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (475ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 large egg

Instructions

• Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon bits with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon fat.

• Cook Pork and Onion: In the same skillet with bacon fat, add ground pork and chopped onion. Cook until pork is browned, breaking it into small pieces.

• Add Spices: Stir in sage, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

• Mix Grains: In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal and flour. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Add the egg and mix well.

• Combine Mixtures: Pour the grain mixture over the pork mixture in the skillet. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 minutes.

• Incorporate Bacon: Stir in the reserved bacon bits.

• Set Scrapple: Pour mixture into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set, at least 2 hours.

• Serve: Slice scrapple into 1/2-inch thick slices. Pan-fry until golden and crispy. Serve hot.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika or add a bit of liquid smoke.
• Vegan Option: Substitute pork with plant-based sausage and use vegan bacon.

Pro Tips

• Texture Tip: Ensure the mixture cools properly before slicing for clean cuts.
• Pan Choice: Use a well-seasoned skillet for frying to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup for a sweet and savory balance.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Substitutions: Yes, you can use turkey bacon or gluten-free flour.
• Texture Issues: If too runny, add more cornmeal; if too thick, a bit more broth.
• Storage: Keeps up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months frozen.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Classic: Serve with eggs and toast.
• Sandwich Addition: Add to a breakfast sandwich for extra flavor.
• Side Dish: Pair with pancakes or hash browns.

Conclusion

This homemade scrapple recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought versions. With its rich flavor and adaptable ingredients, it's a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy the satisfaction of a nutritious breakfast made with love in your own kitchen. Share your creations and let me know your thoughts!