Pork belly is a versatile and succulent cut of meat, perfect for a variety of dishes that can delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that pork belly can be easily transformed into countless mouth-watering recipes. Discovering how to prepare pork belly in different ways can elevate your cooking skills and expand your culinary repertoire.
In this article, we will explore 15 of the best pork belly recipes that range from simple and quick to complex and impressive. You’ll learn how to make crispy pork belly, flavorful sandwiches, and even slow-roasted delights that will impress your family and guests. By the end, you’ll have a collection of recipes that show just how delicious and diverse pork belly can be.
1) Roasted Pork Belly with Honey Garlic Glaze
Preheat your oven to 180ºC (356ºF). Line a roasting tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the pork belly slices fat side up. Use a sharp knife to score the fat. This helps the fat render and crisp up nicely during cooking.
Next, season the pork belly slices with salt and pepper. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for one hour. After an hour, turn the pork belly over and bake for another 30 minutes.
Make a glaze by combining ¼ cup of honey with 3 tablespoons of tamari sauce and minced garlic. Heat this mixture until it cooks for about one minute. Once done, remove the pork belly from the oven and brush the honey garlic glaze over the top.
Return the pork belly to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. This allows the glaze to set and the pork to crisp up. Once it’s done, let the pork belly rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the blend of sweet and savory flavors with each bite.
2) Crispy Pork Belly Tacos
Crispy Pork Belly Tacos are a tasty choice for taco night. Start by seasoning the pork belly with taco seasoning, brown sugar, and sea salt. Bake it until crispy. This will bring out the rich flavors and make the pork belly very tasty.
While the pork belly is cooking, prepare your tortillas. You can char them over a flame or heat them in a pan. This makes them slightly smoky and warm. Keeping them wrapped in a towel helps them stay soft.
When assembling, add a layer of shredded cabbage to each tortilla. The cabbage adds a nice crunch. Place slices of crispy pork belly on top of the cabbage. You can also add fresh jalapeño slices for some heat and a drizzle of sour cream sauce for extra flavor.
Serve with lime wedges and fresh cilantro to add a fresh touch. These tacos are a great mix of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors.
3) Pork Belly Ramen
Pork Belly Ramen is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender pork and flavorful broth. To start, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Rub salt and pepper on the pork belly and roast it for 90 minutes to 2 hours until it’s cooked through.
Once the pork belly is roasted, let it cool and then chill it in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, slice it into pieces. In a large skillet, heat butter and sesame oil. Brown the pork belly pieces for about 2-3 minutes until they are crispy.
To prepare the broth, heat olive oil in a Dutch oven. Add shallots and garlic, and cook until they smell fragrant. Stir in lemongrass and ginger, then add chicken stock. Bring the broth to a boil and add your ramen noodles. Cook the noodles for about a minute if using fresh ones.
Add vegetables like bok choy and cook for an additional minute. Ensure all ingredients are well-blended and serve the broth with the crispy pork belly on top. This dish is perfect for a warm, cozy meal.
4) Sweet and Spicy Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Sweet and spicy pork belly burnt ends are a delicious treat for BBQ lovers. You start by preheating your smoker to 275°F. Cut the pork belly into 1 to 1 1/2-inch cubes. Season with a hot rub of your choice. Place the pieces on a rack and let them smoke for about 2 hours.
Remove the pork belly cubes and transfer them to an aluminum pan. Add your favorite BBQ sauce and mix well. Cover the pan with foil and return it to the smoker. Cook for another 1-2 hours until the internal temperature reaches about 195-205°F.
The final step is to rest the pork belly burnt ends for 15-20 minutes. Serve them with extra sauce on the side. These pork belly burnt ends are perfect for gatherings or a special family meal.
5) Slow-Cooked Pork Belly with Apples
Slow-cooked pork belly with apples is a delicious and hearty dish. The slow cooking retains the pork’s juices and flavors while making it melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Start by seasoning your pork belly on all sides. A mix of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs works well.
Place the pork in your slow cooker. Add sliced apples around the pork. The apples add a sweet contrast to the rich pork.
Pour in chicken stock and add some chopped onions and garlic. This mixture will create a savory broth that enhances the dish.
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-7 hours. You’ll know the pork is ready when it easily shreds with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into thick pieces.
Serve the pork belly with cooked apples on the side. The sweet apples pair perfectly with the savory, tender pork. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
6) Pork Belly Bao Buns
Pork belly bao buns, also known as Gua Bao, are a delicious street food from Taiwan. These buns feature soft, pillowy bread filled with juicy pork belly.
To start, you need to make the dough. Mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add milk, warm water, and melted butter. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. Let it rise until doubled in size.
Marinate the pork belly. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and five-spice powder. Place the pork belly in a ziplock bag with the marinade. Leave it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Cook the pork belly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the marinated pork belly until it’s tender and caramelized.
While the pork belly cooks, steam the buns. You can use a bamboo steamer for this. Steam the buns for about 10 minutes until they’re fluffy and cooked through.
Assemble your bao buns. Slice the cooked pork belly. Place it inside the steamed buns. Add additional toppings like pickled cucumbers, fresh cilantro, and crushed peanuts for extra flavor and texture.
7) Maple Bourbon Glazed Pork Belly
Maple Bourbon Glazed Pork Belly combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the rich flavor of bourbon. You start by rubbing the pork belly with salt and white pepper. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Next, mix maple syrup and bourbon in a small bowl. Pour the mixture over the pork belly, making sure it covers the meat well. Let it marinate for at least four hours, or overnight if possible, in the refrigerator.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the pork belly on a baking sheet, fat-side up, and roast for 15 minutes. This initial high heat helps to create a crispy exterior. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 275°F (140°C) and continue to bake for 1.5 hours or until the pork is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
If you prefer more caramelization, baste the pork belly with extra maple-bourbon sauce and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches about 205°F before serving.
Maple Bourbon Glazed Pork Belly is perfect for special occasions or weekend dinners. Its blend of sweet and savory flavors will make it a favorite on your table.
8) Pork Belly Bites with Salsa Verde
For a delicious and zesty snack, try making pork belly bites with salsa verde.
Start by cutting your pork belly into small, bite-sized pieces. Season them with a simple mix of salt and pepper.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the pork belly pieces in the skillet, cooking them until they are crispy and golden brown.
In a separate bowl, prepare your salsa verde. Mix together fresh cilantro, chopped onions, serrano chilies, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar for balance.
After the pork belly bites are perfectly crispy, add the salsa verde on top. The combination of crispy pork and tangy salsa creates a flavor explosion.
Serve these pork belly bites hot, straight from the skillet. They are perfect for sharing at parties or as an appetizer before a meal.
9) Korean BBQ Pork Belly
Korean BBQ pork belly, known as Samgyeopsal, is a popular dish in Korean cuisine. It’s made by grilling thin slices of pork belly.
Start with some fresh pork belly slices. You can season them with salt, pepper, and garlic. Another way is to marinate the pork with soy sauce, sugar, sesame seeds, and hot pepper flakes.
When grilling, preheat your grill to around 350°F. Place the pork belly on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and crispy.
A common dipping sauce includes toasted sesame oil, salt, and a little garlic. Pair your grilled pork belly with fresh green onion salad.
Make the green onion salad by soaking shredded green onions in cold water for 5 minutes. Drain and mix with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Serve this alongside your pork belly.
For an extra touch, you can cook mushrooms and onions in the pork fat until they are caramelized and tender. Use kitchen shears to cut the cooked pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Enjoy your Korean BBQ pork belly with various side dishes like kimchi and rice.
10) Pork Belly Banh Mi
Pork belly banh mi is a delicious Vietnamese sandwich that combines crispy pork with fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces.
Start by preparing the pork belly. Season it with salt, oil, and any desired herbs or spices. Roast it in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender.
While the pork is roasting, prepare the pickled carrots. Mix sliced carrots with sugar, salt, and vinegar. Let them sit until they are slightly softened and tangy.
Next, get a baguette and slice it in half. Spread mayonnaise or butter on the bread, then add chili sauce or seasoning sauce if you like a bit of heat.
Layer the roasted pork belly on the bread. Top it with the pickled carrots, fresh herbs like cilantro, and sliced chilies for an extra kick.
Finally, put the top half of the baguette on the sandwich. Press down gently to combine all the flavors.
Enjoy your pork belly banh mi as a hearty and satisfying meal, packed with textures and flavors.
11) Pork Belly Porchetta
Pork belly porchetta is an Italian dish known for its flavorful, crispy skin and juicy interior. You start by laying the pork belly flat and seasoning it with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and fennel seeds.
Next, roll the pork belly tightly. Secure it with butcher’s twine to hold its shape. This ensures even cooking and helps the flavors meld together.
Preheat your oven to 475°F. Roast the porchetta for 30 minutes to get the skin crispy. Then, lower the heat to 300°F and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This can take about 2-3 hours.
Some recipes suggest checking the pan frequently and adding water if needed. This prevents the pan juices from burning and keeps the porchetta tender and moist.
For extra flavor, you can add potatoes to the roasting pan halfway through cooking. Toss them in the drippings to coat and roast them alongside the porchetta.
Let the porchetta rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted potatoes and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this delicious dish.
12) Beer-Braised Pork Belly
Beer-braised pork belly is a tasty and rich dish that combines tender meat with flavorful broth. You start by browning the pork belly in a heavy pot or Dutch oven. This helps to lock in the juices and adds a deep flavor.
Once browned, add onions, ginger, and garlic for additional layers of taste. Pour in beer, apple juice, and beef broth. These liquids help braise the pork belly and break down its fat.
The braising process takes a couple of hours. This slow cooking makes the meat tender and allows it to absorb the flavors of the liquid and spices. You might need to skim off some fat before serving.
To finish, you can crisp the skin in a hot oven. This step gives the pork belly a crunchy texture on the outside while staying tender inside. Serve it with white rice, noodles, or potatoes. These sides balance the richness of the pork belly.
13) Pork Belly Sliders
Pork belly sliders are a fun and tasty snack. They’re perfect for game days or casual get-togethers. The juicy pork belly with crispy edges makes each bite delicious.
To start, slice the pork belly thinly. You can use roasted or pan-fried pork belly. This makes the edges crispy and adds a great texture.
Next, prepare a simple sauce. Mix mayonnaise with sriracha and sesame oil. This adds a creamy, spicy kick to your sliders.
Toast slider buns lightly. Spread the sauce on each side of the buns. This helps balance the flavors and keeps the sliders moist.
You can add extra toppings for more flavor. Some options are Asian slaw, green onions, or jalapeño slices. These add a fresh crunch and a little heat.
Finally, assemble your sliders. Place the pork belly slices on the buns. Add your favorite toppings and press the buns together gently.
Pork belly sliders are easy to make and always a hit. Enjoy them hot and fresh for the best taste.
14) Orange-Glazed Pork Belly Skewers
For a tangy and sweet treat, try orange-glazed pork belly skewers. Begin by cutting pork belly into 3cm cubes. Mix orange juice, lemon juice, and honey to create the glaze. Cook this mixture on low heat for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Once cool, marinate the pork belly cubes in the glaze for 30 minutes. Thread the marinated pork belly onto skewers, alternating with slices of orange. You can also add a sprinkle of your favorite spices for extra flavor.
Preheat your grill to 400°F. Cook the skewers on the hot grill for about 3 minutes on each side. Watch closely, as pork belly fat can cause flare-ups. Once the skewers are nicely charred and cooked through, remove them from the grill.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. These skewers make a great appetizer or main dish. Enjoy them with a fresh salad or steamed rice for a complete meal.
15) Five-Spice Pork Belly
Five-spice pork belly is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s sure to impress. You start by mixing a blend of five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture should be rubbed thoroughly over the pork meat, but avoid the skin. The goal is to infuse the meat with the rich, balanced flavor of the spices.
Once the pork belly is seasoned, it’s important to let it rest. Place the pork belly in the refrigerator uncovered for at least 24 hours. This helps the flavors to deepen and ensures the skin dries out, which is essential for getting that desired crispy texture.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to around 275°F (135°C). Searing the pork belly in a skillet before roasting helps develop a crispy crust. Brown the pork belly, skin-side down, until it is golden and crispy. Then flip and sear the other side for a few minutes.
Transfer the pork belly to the oven and roast for about 1.5 hours. If your pork belly has ribs attached, extend the roasting time by an extra 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the pork to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the pork belly briefly at the end. Allow the meat to rest before slicing.
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy five-spice pork belly, which is perfect for any special meal!
Understanding Pork Belly
Pork belly is a flavorful cut of meat often prized for its rich taste and versatility. Knowing its nutritional value and how to select quality pieces will improve your cooking experience.
What Is Pork Belly?
Pork belly comes from the underside of the pig. This fatty cut includes both meat and layers of fat, which makes it juicy and flavorful. It’s the main ingredient in many popular dishes like bacon and pancetta.
Texture and flavor are key here. The marbled fat renders down during cooking, making the meat tender and moist. You can cook it in various ways, such as roasting, frying, or braising, each method enhancing its distinctive taste.
Nutritional Information
Pork belly is high in both fat and calories but also offers essential nutrients. A typical 100-gram serving contains about:
- 500 calories
- 45 grams of fat
- 10 grams of protein
It provides important nutrients such as:
- Vitamin B12: Supports nerve function and the production of red blood cells.
- Selenium: An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
- Zinc: Important for immune system function.
It’s also a good idea to be mindful of its high saturated fat content, which, if consumed in large amounts, can impact heart health.
Selecting Quality Pork Belly
Choosing high-quality pork belly ensures a better end result. Look for the following characteristics:
- Color: A good piece should have a pinkish-red hue. Avoid any that look pale or gray.
- Marbling: Adequate fat layers are essential. The more marbling, the more flavorful the pork belly will be.
- Skin: If your recipe calls for skin-on pork belly, the skin should be smooth and free of blemishes.
Key Tips for Selection:
- Freshness: Always opt for fresh over frozen if possible.
- Source: Buy from reputable butchers or stores known for quality meat.
- Smell: Fresh pork belly shouldn’t have a strong odor. If it smells off, it’s best to avoid it.
By understanding pork belly and keeping these factors in mind, you can make better choices in the kitchen and elevate your culinary creations.
Cooking Techniques for Pork Belly
Mastering the art of cooking pork belly requires knowing a few key techniques. This rich and flavorful cut of meat benefits from methods like braising, roasting, and sous vide to achieve crispy skin and tender meat.
Braising
Braising involves slow cooking pork belly in liquid at a low temperature. Start by searing the pork belly until it’s browned on all sides. Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven for this step. Once seared, add aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots. Pour in enough liquid, such as broth or wine, to partially cover the meat. Cover the pot and cook on low heat or in an oven set to about 300°F for 2-3 hours. The meat becomes incredibly tender, and the fat renders down, infusing the meat with flavor.
Roasting
Roasting pork belly provides a crispy skin and tender meat. Begin by scoring the skin and rubbing it with salt and oil. Let it rest uncovered in the fridge overnight to dry out the skin. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Start roasting the pork belly skin side up for 30 minutes, then reduce the heat to 275°F. Continue roasting until the meat is tender, about 1-2 hours. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F-200°F. For extra crispiness, finish by blasting the skin under a broiler for a few minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Sous Vide
Sous vide is a precise cooking method that ensures even cooking. First, season the pork belly with your choice of spices and salt. Vacuum seal it in a bag and cook it in a water bath set to 165°F for 10-12 hours. This long, slow cook time breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. After sous vide cooking, sear the pork belly in a hot skillet or under a broiler to achieve crispy skin. This method is great for controlling the exact texture of your pork belly, making it both tender and flavorful.
Complementary Ingredients
When cooking pork belly, the right combination of spices, herbs, vegetables, and sauces can elevate the flavor and texture of the dish. You can experiment with different ingredients to find what pairs best with this rich and savory meat.
Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs add depth and complexity to pork belly. Garlic and ginger are popular choices because they bring a warm and slightly spicy note. Rosemary and thyme enhance the meat’s earthy flavors. Paprika gives it a smoky kick, while black pepper adds just the right amount of heat. Mustard powder can also be used for a subtle tang.
Use fresh herbs when possible. Fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme have more intense flavors than dried versions. When mixing spices, consider creating a dry rub with salt, pepper, paprika, and a bit of sugar to help caramelize the pork belly during cooking.
Vegetables
Vegetables can complement pork belly and balance its richness. Roasted cauliflower is a great choice, offering a crispy texture and a mild flavor that pairs well with pork. Spinach or kale can be sautéed with garlic to add a healthy, green element to the meal.
Consider broccolini, which cooks quickly and has a slightly sweet taste. Butternut squash or roasted pumpkin adds a touch of sweetness and a bright color to your plate. Cucumber and radish salads provide a refreshing, crunchy contrast.
Sauces and Marinades
The right sauce or marinade can bring out the best in pork belly. Soy sauce and honey together create a sweet and salty glaze that’s hard to beat. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note that cuts through the fatty richness of the meat.
Ginger and garlic-based marinades introduce a bold, spicy flavor. Red pepper flakes can add heat, and olive oil can keep the meat moist during cooking. Experiment with mustard-based sauces for a unique kick, and consider a marinade of olive oil, garlic, vinegar, and herbs to infuse your pork belly with layers of flavor before it even hits the pan.
