Are you ready to elevate your cooking game and impress your friends and family? Look no further than the delicious world of crispy pork belly! This mouthwatering cut of meat has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. With its tender texture and rich, unctuous flavor, it’s a must-try ingredient for any serious foodie.
From classic slow-roasted recipes to innovative twists like honey glazed bites or spicy stir-fries, there are countless ways to prepare this indulgent meat. And in this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring 20 mouthwatering crispy pork belly recipes that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these dishes are sure to inspire and delight.
Slow-Roasted Crispy Pork Belly
Slow-Roasted Crispy Pork Belly Recipe
Discover the tender and crispy delight of slow-roasted pork belly, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. This recipe yields a richly flavored dish with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly ( Skin-on)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Score the fat layer of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Place the pork belly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 2 1/2 hours or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Pork Belly Bites
This recipe transforms pork belly into bite-sized morsels coated with a sticky honey glaze, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying these sweet and savory treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the pork belly cubes and toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with vegetable oil. Arrange the coated pork belly cubes in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Pork Belly Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines tender pork belly with crunchy vegetables and a kick of gochujang sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup gochujang sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork belly and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Pour into the pan and stir to combine.
5. Add pork belly back to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the spicy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Pork Belly Skewers
Elevate your BBQ game with these tender and flavorful pork belly skewers, infused with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together garlic, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread pork belly cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the pork belly on each skewer.
5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is tender and caramelized.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Pork Belly Banh Mi
This Vietnamese-inspired sandwich combines the unctuous richness of caramelized pork belly with the crunch of pickled carrots, the freshness of cilantro, and the warmth of toasted baguette. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 baguette, split
– Pickled carrots (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro leaves
– Mayonnaise or sriracha mayo (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Place pork belly in the saucepan, cover with foil, and braise for 2-1/2 hours or overnight.
4. Slice pork belly into thick strips and toast baguette.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or sriracha mayo on toasted baguette, adding pickled carrots, cilantro leaves, and caramelized pork belly.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A rich and savory ramen dish featuring tender pork belly, soft-boiled eggs, and a variety of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bok choy, chopped
– 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 4 soft-boiled eggs
– Noodles of your choice (e.g., ramen or udon)
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork belly, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, sugar, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
2. Prepare noodles according to package instructions.
3. Add bok choy and mushrooms to the pork belly mixture and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Cook soft-boiled eggs by placing them in a pot of boiling water for 6-7 minutes.
5. Assemble ramen bowls with cooked noodles, pork belly mixture, and a soft-boiled egg.
6. Garnish with green onions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these sweet and savory Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Sliders. The combination of tender pork belly, caramelized maple syrup, and a hint of bourbon will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 slider buns
– Coleslaw or pickled carrots (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season the pork belly with salt and pepper. Place in a roasting pan and pour the maple-bourbon glaze over the top.
4. Roast for 2 hours or until the pork is tender and caramelized.
5. Slice into thin strips and assemble sliders with buns, slaw or pickled carrots (if using).
6. Cook time: 2 hours
7. Serve immediately.
Crispy Pork Belly Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the harmonious fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and Mexican traditions with this unique taco recipe, featuring crispy pork belly and a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pineapple salsa (recipe below)
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add pork belly strips and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork belly until crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with crispy pork belly, pineapple salsa, green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Pork Belly Adobo with Coconut Rice
Experience the harmonious fusion of savory pork belly and creamy coconut rice in this mouthwatering Filipino-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thick strips
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, combine soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly slices and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a separate pot, combine coconut milk and cooked rice. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until creamy and well combined.
4. Season the adobo with salt to taste.
5. Serve the pork belly on top of the coconut rice and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Elevate your BBQ game with this innovative recipe that combines the richness of pork belly with the crispy, caramelized texture of burnt ends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the pork belly cubes in a large container or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Smoke the pork belly for 8 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before shredding into burnt ends.
6. Return the shredded pork to the smoker for an additional 30 minutes to crisp up the edges.
Cook Time: 8 hours and 30 minutes
Pork Belly Fried Rice with Scallions
This recipe combines the richness of pork belly with the comfort of fried rice, topped with crispy scallions for added crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pork belly, diced
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 2 eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the onion mixture. Then, add the cooked rice, pork belly, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
6. Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Top with thinly sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Soy-Glazed Pork Belly
Elevate your pork belly game with this sweet and savory Sticky Soy-Glazed recipe, perfect for a special occasion or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Score the pork belly in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1 cm deep.
4. Place the pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the soy-glaze all over the pork belly, making sure to get into the scored lines.
6. Roast for 2 hours and 30 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Pork Belly Pancakes with Hoisin Sauce
Pork Belly Pancakes with Hoisin Sauce: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Traditional Flapjacks
Discover the harmony of sweet and savory flavors in these delectable Pork Belly Pancakes, served with a rich and velvety Hoisin Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted pork belly fat (or vegetable oil)
– Freshly grated ginger, to taste
– Hoisin Sauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted pork belly fat (or oil).
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to set.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with Hoisin Sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Belly and Kimchi Stew
This hearty stew combines the richness of pork belly with the bold flavors of kimchi, creating a spicy and savory dish perfect for cold winter nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this Korean-inspired comfort food in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, gochujang, chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, and kimchi. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Pork Belly with Mango Chutney
Grilled Pork Belly with Mango Chutney: A Sweet and Savory Fusion
This recipe combines the rich flavor of pork belly with the sweetness of mango chutney, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango chutney (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, olive oil, soy sauce, and cumin.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork belly on the grill and cook for 2-3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Slice the pork belly into thick slabs and serve with mango chutney spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork Belly Bibimbap with Gochujang
Transform your Korean-inspired bibimbap game with the rich flavors of pork belly and spicy gochujang. This harmonious union of textures and tastes is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed rice (short-grain and regular)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Assorted vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together pork belly strips with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
3. Pan-fry pork belly until crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side. Drain excess fat on paper towels.
4. In a separate pan, heat gochujang over medium heat. Add scallions and sesame seeds; stir-fry until fragrant.
5. Assemble bibimbap bowls by layering cooked rice, pork belly, assorted vegetables, and gochujang mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Belly Larb with Fresh Herbs
This recipe puts a new spin on the traditional Laab (or Larb) dish by incorporating tender and unctuous pork belly. The combination of crispy skin, savory meat, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as basil or Thai basil), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and red pepper flakes. Add the sliced pork belly and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
3. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the pork on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together chopped cilantro, mint, and garlic. Serve the pork belly with the fresh herb mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Belly Bao Buns with Pickled Vegetables
Experience the harmonious balance of tender pork belly and tangy pickled vegetables wrapped in soft, fluffy bao buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 4 cups bao bun dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Pickled Vegetable Filling (see below)
Pickled Vegetable Filling:
– 1 cup thinly sliced daikon radish
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pan, combine pork belly pieces, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, then transfer to the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, prepare bao bun dough according to package instructions (or homemade recipe).
4. Assemble bao buns by placing a few pieces of pork belly onto each bun, followed by a spoonful of pickled vegetable filling.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Belly Carbonara Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory, and utterly indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of pork belly with the comforting warmth of carbonara. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup pork belly, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced pork belly over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water if needed for creamy consistency.
5. Add cooked pork belly to the pasta mixture, tossing to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Salad with Citrus Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavors of crispy pork belly with a zesty citrus dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salad greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup citrus segments (oranges, grapefruits, lemons)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, five-spice powder, and cornstarch. Add pork belly strips and toss until coated.
3. Fry pork belly for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together citrus segments, orange juice, and honey.
5. Assemble the salad by placing fried pork belly, salad greens, and citrus dressing in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispiest, most mouthwatering pork belly recipes! This collection of 20 dishes will take your taste buds on a journey around the world. From slow-roasted to honey-glazed, spicy to sticky, and ramen to tacos, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make tender bites with garlic butter, crispy pancakes with hoisin sauce, or savory stir-fries with gochujang. Whether you’re a pork belly fanatic or just looking for new inspiration, this list is sure to satisfy your cravings.
