Delicious Pork Belly Slices Recipe | Easy to Make

by | Aug 11, 2024 | Pork Recipes

Ever wondered how to turn simple pork belly into a tasty treat? Join us on a cooking journey with our easy pork belly recipe. It’s sure to make every bite crispy and delicious.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and experts alike. It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time. It serves 5 people and can be made in an air fryer, oven, or on the stovetop.

Our crispy pork belly dish has a great mix of textures. You get a crunchy outside and tender, juicy meat inside. It’s easy to make and perfect for any day of the week or a special weekend meal.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick preparation: 5 minutes prep, 10 minutes cook time
  • Versatile cooking methods: air fryer, oven, or stovetop
  • Serves 5 people with 1379 kcal per serving
  • Customizable cooking time for desired tenderness
  • Simple ingredients for a flavorful, easy pork belly dish

Introduction to Pork Belly Slices

Pork belly slices are a true delight, packed with rich flavors and many cooking options. They have become a favorite among food lovers and home cooks. Let’s explore why pork belly is a staple in kitchens everywhere.

What is pork belly?

Pork belly comes from the underside of a pig and is known for its high fat content. This fat makes the meat crispy when cooked right. Sliced to be ¼ to ½ inch thick, it’s ideal for a variety of recipes.

Why pork belly slices are a culinary delight

Pork belly is versatile and always delicious, whether oven-roasted or slow-cooked. A 1.5-pound package yields about 12 ounces of cooked meat. It’s full of flavor and texture.

Difference between pork belly and bacon

Pork belly and bacon both come from the pig’s underside but are prepared and cooked differently. Pork belly is fresh and in thicker slices, while bacon is cured and thin. Cooking pork belly in the oven takes about 40-50 minutes at 400°F, while bacon cooks in 20 minutes.

Characteristic Pork Belly Bacon
Preparation Fresh Cured
Slice Thickness ¼ to ½ inch Thin
Cooking Time (400°F oven) 40-50 minutes 20 minutes

Ingredients for Perfect Pork Belly Slices

Starting with the right ingredients is key to a tasty pork belly recipe. You’ll need skinless pork belly strips, about ½-inch thick. This size is perfect for pan-frying or air frying. Thicker cuts are better for oven roasting.

To boost the flavor of your pork belly slices, gather these must-have seasonings:

  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika

For glazed pork belly slices, you’ll need more ingredients for a sweet and savory coat. Here’s a simple glaze recipe:

Ingredient Amount
Light soy sauce 115ml (3 ⅞ floz)
Orange juice Juice of 1 orange
Honey 1 tablespoon
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Minced garlic 1 clove

Choosing high-quality pork belly is vital for the best taste. Go for fresh, well-marbled cuts for a tender and flavorful dish. With these ingredients, you’re all set to make a mouthwatering pork belly dish that will wow everyone.

Preparing Your Pork Belly for Cooking

Mastering pork belly cooking starts with proper preparation. This step is key for a crispy pork belly recipe that will wow your guests. Let’s explore the important techniques to get your pork belly ready for cooking.

Slicing techniques for optimal results

Slice your pork belly into strips that are about ½-inch thick. If it has skin, score it in a diagonal pattern. This helps the fat melt and makes the skin crispy. Make sure all slices are the same thickness to cook evenly and prevent burning.

Seasoning options for enhanced flavor

A simple seasoning mix works well: fine salt, sugar, and black pepper. For more flavor, add garlic powder and smoked paprika. Rub this mix all over the pork belly, focusing on the skin if it has any.

Marinating tips for tender meat

Marinating makes the meat tender and flavorful. Use a marinade with soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder. Start marinating three days before cooking to let the flavors soak in.

Preparation Step Time Frame Purpose
Slicing Immediately before seasoning Ensure even cooking
Seasoning 3 days before cooking Flavor development
Marinating 1-3 days before cooking Tenderize and flavor meat
Drying skin (if applicable) Overnight in fridge Achieve crispy crackling

Bring your pork belly to room temperature before cooking. This ensures it cooks evenly. With these steps, you’re set for delicious pork belly.

Cooking Methods for Pork Belly Slices

Pork belly slices can be cooked in many ways. You can oven-roast or slow-cook them. Each method makes the meat taste and feel special. Let’s look at different ways to cook pork belly for delicious results.

Pork belly cooking methods

Oven-roasting is a favorite for crispy pork belly. Heat your oven to 350°F and cook the meat for about 2½ hours until it’s tender. For something new, try sous vide cooking. Use a device set at 154°F for 24 hours to get tender “Burnt Ends”.

Air frying is another quick way to cook pork belly slices. Cook them at 390°F for about 20 minutes for a crispy outside. If you like slow-cooked pork belly, use a Dutch oven or a foil packet with beef or chicken stock. This makes the meat tender and full of flavor.

Cooking Method Temperature Duration Texture
Oven-roasting 350°F 2½ hours Crispy exterior, tender interior
Sous vide 154°F 24 hours Melt-in-your-mouth tender
Air frying 390°F 20 minutes Extra crispy exterior
Slow-cooking Low heat 6-8 hours Fall-apart tender

Try adding flavors by braising pork belly in hard apple cider, apple cider vinegar, and apple slices. This mix brings a sweet and tangy taste to your dish. The cooking method you pick depends on what you want and how much time you have.

Oven-Roasted Pork Belly Slices Recipe

Make a delicious oven-roasted pork belly dish with this crispy recipe. It’s perfect for a special dinner or a weekend treat. You’ll get tender meat with a crispy outside everyone will love.

Step-by-step instructions

First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, get your pork belly slices ready. Use 1-inch thick slices for the best results. Dry them with paper towels to get rid of extra moisture.

Next, mix your seasonings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and brown sugar. Rub this mix all over the pork belly slices. For more flavor, marinate them for at least an hour or even overnight in the fridge.

Temperature and timing guidelines

Put the seasoned pork belly slices on a roasting rack in a baking dish. This setup helps cook them evenly and gets that crispy skin. Roast for 45-60 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through.

Cooking Step Temperature Time
Preheat oven 375°F (190°C)
Roast pork belly 375°F (190°C) 45-60 minutes
Internal temperature 145°F (63°C)

Achieving the perfect crispy exterior

For a crispy finish, brush the pork belly slices with oil and broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Let the slices rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep the juices in.

This recipe makes 10 servings and takes about 55 minutes to prepare. It has 406 calories per serving and a 4.91 rating from 11 votes. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.

Pork Belly Slices Recipe: Stovetop Edition

Stovetop pork belly cooking instructions

Want an easy pork belly dish? Try this stovetop version that’s quick and tasty. It makes crispy, flavorful pork belly slices without needing an oven. Great for smaller portions or when you’re short on time.

Start with 1½ pounds of pork belly, with the rind on. Season it with 2 teaspoons of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground pepper, and ½ teaspoon of five-spice powder for extra flavor. Boil the pork belly for 5-10 minutes on each side, depending on its thickness, for tender meat.

For the main cooking, use a cast iron skillet over medium heat. This method ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior. Pan-frying crispy pork belly takes about 30 minutes, resulting in a dish that’s crispy outside and juicy inside.

“This stovetop pork belly recipe is a game-changer. It’s so simple yet incredibly tasty!”

Here’s a quick breakdown of the recipe:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Calories: 588kcal per serving

Serve your pan-fried crispy pork belly with rice or noodles for a complete meal. This pork belly cooking instruction yields a dish that’s sure to impress. It combines ease of preparation with mouth-watering results.

Ingredient Amount
Pork Belly (with rind) 1½ lb (675g)
Salt 2 tsp (divided)
Ground Pepper ½ tsp
Five-Spice Powder ½ tsp

Air Fryer Pork Belly Slices: A Quick Alternative

Want a quick way to make crispy pork belly slices? Try your air fryer! It’s a fast and easy way to get that perfect crunch without the effort of traditional cooking.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

Air fryers make food crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They cook pork belly slices faster than oven-roasting, ideal for those with little time. They also use less oil, making the dish healthier.

Recipe Adaptation for Air Frying

Start with 700g of scored pork belly. Dry it and season with garlic powder, Chinese five spice, and sea salt. Put the slices in your air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking.

Cooking Times and Temperatures

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Cook the pork belly slices for 20-25 minutes for a crispy exterior. Then, reduce the temperature to 160°C (320°F) and cook for another 10-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) for safety.

This recipe gives you crispy, tasty pork belly slices quickly. Serve with steamed rice and green veggies for a great meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for three months.

Glazing and Flavoring Your Pork Belly Slices

Take your glazed pork belly slices to the next level with a mix of amazing flavors. This meat can weigh up to 12 pounds when whole. Once cut down to about an inch thick, it’s ready for your creative touch.

For an Asian-style pork belly, mix ginger, green onions, garlic, and light and dark soy sauces. Add brown sugar for sweetness and rice wine for depth. For a Korean twist, use gochujang, a spicy chili paste, in your glaze. This mix creates a sweet and spicy coating that matches the rich pork perfectly.

To get the right sticky glaze, balance honey with rice wine vinegar. Cook the pork belly slices over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side. For a crispy outside, try using an air fryer. You’ll end up with juicy, flavorful bites great for appetizers, main dishes, or salads.

Glaze Ingredient Purpose
Brown Sugar Sweetness and caramelization
Soy Sauce Umami and depth
Rice Wine Acidity and flavor enhancement
Gochujang Spiciness and complexity

Choosing high-quality pork belly with the right meat and fat balance is crucial to avoid dryness. Your glazed pork belly slices can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months. This makes them a great choice for any meal.

Asian-Inspired Pork Belly Slices Recipe

Take your cooking to the next level with this delicious Asian-style pork belly recipe. It blends the deep tastes of the East with the tender pork belly slices. This makes for a meal you won’t forget.

Key Ingredients for Asian Flavors

To make authentic Asian-style glazed pork belly slices, you’ll need these key ingredients:

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pork belly slices
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
  • 1 red chili
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tsp lemongrass paste

Cooking Technique for Authentic Taste

Begin by slow-cooking the pork belly slices in a flavorful broth for 2 hours. This method makes the meat tender and full of Asian flavors. Then, crisp the slices in a pan for that perfect texture.

For the glaze, mix the ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer until it thickens, then brush it over your crispy pork belly slices. This step gives the dish that sticky, glazed finish you love from Asian cuisine.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Asian-style pork belly with steamed rice and fresh herbs. This combo of textures and tastes will take you straight to Asia. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and sherry instead of rice wine.

Nutritional Info (per serving) Amount
Calories 531 kcal
Carbohydrates 14 g
Protein 33 g
Fat 38 g
Saturated Fat 15 g
Sodium 654 mg

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Your easy pork belly dish deserves the perfect accompaniment. Whether it’s the main course or an appetizer, the right pairing can take your pork belly slices to new heights. Let’s explore some delicious options to complement this rich and savory dish.

Pork belly slices recipe served with side dishes

For a classic pairing, consider serving your pork belly with creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes. These starchy sides beautifully balance the richness of the meat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try a refreshing salad like Red Cabbage Slaw or marinated cucumber salad to cut through the fat.

Vegetable sides are excellent choices too. Air fryer asparagus or zucchini fries offer a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with tender pork belly. For a heartier option, cauliflower cheese or a broccoli casserole make great companions.

Get creative with your pork belly slices recipe by incorporating them into different dishes. Try pork belly tacos for a fusion twist, or add them to ramen for a luxurious upgrade to your noodle bowl.

Side Dish Flavor Profile Preparation Method
Red Cabbage Slaw Tangy and Sweet Raw, Tossed
Mashed Potatoes Creamy and Buttery Boiled, Mashed
Air Fryer Asparagus Crispy and Earthy Air Fried
Cauliflower Cheese Cheesy and Savory Baked

Remember, the key to a great meal is balance. Pair your easy pork belly dish with sides that complement its rich flavor and provide a variety of textures and tastes. With these suggestions, you’re sure to create a memorable dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Pork Belly Slices

Learning how to store and reheat pork belly leftovers is key. After enjoying your easy pork belly dish, make sure to store it right. Keep your pork belly slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you need to keep it longer, freeze it for two to three months.

Here are some tips for reheating your leftovers:

  • Oven method: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap slices in foil with a splash of broth. Heat for 10-15 minutes.
  • Microwave method: Cover with a damp paper towel. Reheat in 30-second intervals at 50% power.
  • Air fryer method: Set to 350°F. Reheat for a few minutes until crispy.

Always make sure the reheated pork belly reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for the best results. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to make sure the juices spread evenly. This trick is also great for other meats, like chicken cutlets.

Reheating Method Temperature Time Tips
Oven 350°F (175°C) 10-15 minutes Wrap in foil with broth
Microwave 50% power 30-second intervals Cover with damp paper towel
Air Fryer 350°F (175°C) Few minutes Check for crispiness

Don’t let leftover pork belly go to waste. Get creative with it! Chop it up for salads, add it to rice bowls, or make delicious pork belly tacos. These ideas will make your meals more exciting and use up your leftover pork belly.

Health Considerations When Enjoying Pork Belly

Pork belly lovers should know about its nutritional facts. A 4-ounce serving has 585 calories and 60 grams of fat. It’s tasty, but eating it in moderation is key for a balanced diet.

Slow-cooked pork belly has some good stuff in it. It’s full of B vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. These vitamins help with energy and keeping your nerves working right. Plus, it has zinc and copper, important minerals.

Pork belly slices recipe

  • Trim excess fat before cooking
  • Pair with nutrient-dense vegetables
  • Opt for healthier cooking methods like air frying
  • Choose pastured pork for higher vitamin E and selenium content

Enjoying pork belly means finding a balance. It has a lot of saturated fat, but half of it is the good kind. Make sure your slow-cooked pork belly gets to 145°F before you eat it.

Nutrient Amount per 4 oz serving % Daily Value
Calories 585 29%
Total Fat 60g 77%
Saturated Fat 22g 110%
Protein 11g 22%
Thiamine (B1) 0.45mg 37.3%

Troubleshooting Common Pork Belly Cooking Issues

Mastering pork belly cooking can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get that perfect crispy pork belly recipe every time. When frying, keep the temperature at 350-375°F (175-190°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. This method ensures even cooking and that crispy texture everyone loves.

For oven-roasted pork belly, start with a 2 lb (907g) cut. Bake it for 40 minutes, then crisp the skin for another 20 minutes. To prevent uneven cooking, make sure to slice your pork belly evenly. Pat the meat dry before cooking to help it crisp up better. If you’re frying, avoid overcrowding the pan to let each slice crisp up nicely.

Dealing with too much fat? Drain the pan halfway through cooking and use a splatter guard. After frying, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve for reuse. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Remember, keeping an eye on your pork belly while cooking is key to avoid over or undercooking.