Pork Belly Bliss: A Step-by-Step Guide to Mouthwatering Flavor

Pork belly is a rich and indulgent cut of meat, celebrated for its tender texture and crispy skin. This recipe guides you through the elegant process of preparing perfectly roasted pork belly, starting with a thorough seasoning of garlic, onion powder,

and smoked paprika. Its beef belly is first low-fried and slowly rendered fat, then the temperature is raised for that crispy skin. An optional glaze made with honey, soy sauce and ginger adds a sweet and savory finish. After resting, the meat belly is sliced ​​and served with the side of your choice, making it a luxurious addition to any meal. This dish not only showcases the beauty of simple ingredients but promises to impress family and friends with its delicious taste and texture. Enjoy the culinary delights of perfectly cooked meat belly, a true centerpiece for any dining event!

---

Ingredients

• For the Pork Belly:
  • 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) pork belly, skin on
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
• For the Glaze (optional):
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Belly:

• Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern, taking care not to cut into the meat. This will help render the fat and achieve a crispy skin.
• Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Rub the skin with olive oil and season generously with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, ensuring an even coating.

2. Roast the Pork Belly:

• Place the seasoned pork belly on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up. This allows air to circulate and helps crisp the skin.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the fat has rendered.

3. Increase the Heat for Crispiness:

• After the initial roasting, increase the oven temperature to 220°C (430°F) and continue to roast for an additional 30-40 minutes. Keep a close eye on the pork belly, as the skin should bubble and turn golden brown. If it begins to darken too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.

4. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):

• While the pork belly is crisping, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and grated ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Brush this glaze onto the pork belly during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a sweet and savory finish.

5. Rest and Serve:

• Once perfectly roasted, remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.
• Slice into portions and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Garnish with fresh thyme for an elegant touch.

---

---

Tips for Perfect Pork Belly

• Scoring: Ensure the skin is scored deeply but not into the meat to achieve optimal crispiness.
• Resting Time: Allowing the pork belly to rest after cooking is crucial for juiciness.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with pickled vegetables or a tangy slaw to balance the richness of the pork belly.

Recipe videos

Pork Belly videos:

Love is endless