Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

You don't have to pre-order the short ribs at Daisy May's. They are an everday staple of the menu.

The traditional is all that is necessary, and I recommend seasoning yourself. Just follow the directions that come with the pan and follow. You could avoid rust by just wiping out after using and applying a thin coat of vegetable oil (just never olive oil).

If you have any particles that adhere, use kosher salt as an abrasive and rub in a circular motion with a dry dedicated cloth. Wipe out after and apply a thin coat of oil. If you have more then one pan, and stack them, place a paper towel between. If the pan is rusty beyond repair, you can use steel wool, soap and water - but you would have to re-season, following manufactures instructions.

If you want to take the process one step further, sand interior of cast iron with a high grit sand paper until smooth, wash with soap and water and then season following directions - maintain as discussed. This will make the surface super non-stick after properly seasoning and antique like in quality. This finish allows you to use a minimum of fat, and maximizes caramelization.

That's awesome, Adam. Thanks for the heads up.

A favorite Bacon Purveyor:
The Grateful Palate. Their selections are unique and well chosen, and the Bacon of the Month Club a fun gift that I've given, but sadly, for some reason never received.

ed, this was awesome! made me so hungry. i have a nomination in the literature category.

best sad children's book about pigs: a day no pigs would die

god bless the pigs...

From the Smokey Mountains' Artisanal Hickory Smoked Ham to Kurobuta to Spain's Iberico Pata Negro...the year of the Pig is something to celebrate.

I note that Boston is omitted from the list of cities offering great porcine products. This is a shame. From No.9 Park's sublime pork belly, to Chinatown's fabulous roast pork and barbequed pork to Somerville's ribs this is a town in love with the pig.

Benton's bacon is unbelieveable. My vegetarian next door neighbor was drooling and cursing me...the ham, too...

still looking for the best chicharonnes...

here's to our porcine friends and their sacrifice which is not under appreciated!

Cheers,
The Leather District Gourmet

Great list! But, no love for the Thorne's "Serious Pig"? I know only one chapter of the book is about pork, but what a chapter! (not that I have any fault with Mr. Trillin and Mr. Steingarten!)