Pork Belly Recipe (with Video)

Pork Belly Recipe: Pork belly is a versatile, flavorful cut of meat loved by food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you like it crispy, tender, or juicy, mastering the right cooking technique is key to getting the perfect dish.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to cook pork belly with step-by-step instructions.

Choosing the Right Pork Belly

The first step to a perfect pork belly dish is selecting high-quality meat. Look for:

• Freshness – The meat should be pinkish-red with white fat layers. Avoid any grayish or overly soft pieces.
• Marbling – A good balance of fat and meat ensures juiciness and tenderness.
• Skin-on or skinless? – If you want crispy pork belly, go for skin-on. Skinless is great for braised or slow-cooked dishes.
• Sourcing – Try to buy from a local butcher or a trusted grocery store for the freshest cut.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice (for crispy skin)
• Optional: honey, chili flakes, or Chinese five-spice for extra flavor

Equipment Needed:

• Sharp knife (for scoring the skin)
• Baking tray or roasting rack
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Cast iron pan (for pan-frying)
• Slow cooker (for braised pork belly)

Preparing the Pork Belly

Proper preparation makes all the difference:

1. Clean and Dry: Rinse the pork belly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Score the Skin: Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts on the skin. This helps with crispiness.
3. Seasoning:
   • For crispy skin – Keep the skin dry and rub with salt.
   • For extra flavor – Marinate in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and spices for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Methods for Pork Belly

Roasting in the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the pork belly skin-side up on a roasting tray.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes until the skin starts to crisp.
4. Reduce heat to 325°F (160°C) and cook for another 45 minutes.
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tip: To achieve extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes!

Slow-Cooking for Tenderness

1. Place seasoned pork belly in a slow cooker.
2. Add broth, soy sauce, garlic, and spices for flavor.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until fork-tender.
4. For a crispy finish, pan-fry or broil the cooked pork belly for a few minutes.

Pan-Frying for a Quick Crisp

1. Slice the pork belly into thin pieces.
2. Heat a cast-iron pan on medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork belly skin-side down first and fry for 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Drain excess oil and serve hot.

Braising for Extra Flavor

1. In a pot, brown the pork belly on all sides.
2. Add soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and star anise.
3. Pour in water or broth and simmer for 1.5-2 hours.
4. The pork belly should be tender with a rich sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed greens.
• Sauces: Hoisin sauce, honey glaze, or spicy vinegar dip.
• Toppings: Fresh herbs, sesame seeds, or pickled vegetables.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or pan-fry for extra crispiness.
• Freeze: Store in portions and thaw before reheating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not drying the skin – This prevents it from crisping up.
• Overcooking – Makes the meat tough and dry.
• Skipping the resting time – Always let the meat rest before slicing.

Health Considerations

• High in fat but also rich in protein.
• Best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs about Pork Belly Recipe

1. What is pork belly?

Pork belly is a boneless, fatty cut of meat taken from the belly of the pig. It is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it perfect for roasting, braising, or frying.

2. How do I get crispy pork belly skin?

For extra crispy skin, pat the pork belly dry, score the skin, and rub it with salt. Roasting at high heat (around 425°F/220°C) for the last 20 minutes will help achieve that perfect crunch.

3. What are the best seasonings for pork belly?

Pork belly pairs well with salt, black pepper, garlic, paprika, and Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, five-spice powder, and hoisin sauce.

4. How long should I cook pork belly?

Cooking time depends on the method. Slow roasting at 275°F (135°C) for 2-3 hours ensures tenderness, while pan-frying or grilling takes about 15-20 minutes per side.

5. Can I make pork belly in an air fryer?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

6. What’s the best way to store and reheat pork belly?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) or air fryer for 5-10 minutes to keep the skin crispy.

7. Is pork belly the same as bacon?

Not exactly. Bacon is cured and smoked, while pork belly is fresh and unprocessed, allowing for more versatile cooking methods.

Conclusion

Pork belly is a delicious, versatile dish that can be crispy, tender, or rich, depending on how you cook it. Whether you roast, slow-cook, pan-fry, or braise, this guide ensures perfect results every time.