The Story Behind Our Housemade Beef Bacon
Some of the best menu items aren't planned; they're discovered.
Our housemade beef bacon is one of them!
The Challenge
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the food industry almost overnight. As outbreaks swept through meatpacking facilities across the country, many plants were forced to slow production or temporarily shut down, significantly reducing beef processing capacity. The result was a supply chain disruption unlike anything the food industry had experienced before.
For cattle producers, the challenge wasn't a lack of cattle; it was finding ways to sell and utilize every cut of the animal as processing and distribution were disrupted. While premium steak cuts remained in demand, lesser-known cuts like beef belly had fewer uses, creating challenges for both farmers and processors.
At Asado Life, we've always believed in honoring the whole animal. Rather than focusing only on the most familiar cuts, we saw an opportunity to support producers, reduce waste, and find creative ways to showcase an underutilized ingredient.
The Idea
Like many businesses in the food industry, Urban Asado, our grill fabrication studio, had to adapt quickly. We found new ways to stay connected with our community through virtual grilling demonstrations, grab-and-go grill kits, and outdoor pop-up events. That same spirit of creativity carried into the kitchen, where our team developed new ways to work with available ingredients while continuing to deliver the bold flavors our guests loved.
Instead of viewing beef belly as a secondary cut, we saw an opportunity to transform it into something special, something that benefited the farmer, the restaurant, and the guest all at once.
The Process
The process starts with fresh beef belly, which is fabricated in-house before being pressed and cured with pink salt. Once cured, it's rinsed, sliced, and smoked low and slow, creating a rich, savory bite that's both familiar and uniquely our own.
What began as a creative solution quickly became one of our signature ingredients. Guests loved it, and it earned a permanent place on the menu.
The Favorites
Today, our housemade beef bacon remains a staple on the menu. You'll find it in guest favorites like the BBLT appetizer, Grilled Chicken Club, and Rotisserie Smoked Chicken Salad Sandwich. You can also add it to any burger for an extra layer of smoky, savory flavor.
Looking back, it's a reminder that some of the best ideas don't come from careful planning. They come from adapting, innovating, and finding opportunity in unexpected circumstances.
And this one is here to stay.