Pork Belly Recipes

Pork belly is a crowd favorite with its irresistible combination of rich flavors and amazing texture. From crispy crackling to tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites, these recipes showcase the versatility of this delicious cut of meat. Here’s a roundup of the 10 most popular pork belly recipes that will elevate your cooking game and satisfy your cravings!

Contents

Pork Belly Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Pork belly tacos topped with pineapple salsa on a wooden table.

Pork belly tacos topped with fresh pineapple salsa are a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of crispy pork belly and sweet, tangy salsa creates a flavor explosion in every bite. These tacos are not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

The richness of the pork belly pairs wonderfully with the bright notes of the pineapple salsa, which adds a refreshing touch. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra zing. This dish is a standout from the 10 most popular pork belly recipes you can try!

Crispy Pork Belly with Honey Glaze

Delicious crispy pork belly with honey glaze on a white plate

Crispy pork belly with honey glaze is a delightful dish that combines crunchy skin with tender meat, creating a perfect balance of textures. The sweet and sticky honey glaze enhances the rich flavor of the pork, making each bite satisfying and savory. This recipe is straightforward, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to impress.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it as an appetizer or a main course; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds pork belly
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Score the pork belly skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
  2. Rub the pork belly with salt and pepper, ensuring it gets into the scores. Drizzle with olive oil.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Brush this mixture generously over the pork belly.
  4. Place the pork belly on a roasting pan and roast for about 30 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  5. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue cooking for another 1 hour, basting with the honey glaze every 20 minutes.
  6. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Braised Pork Belly with Soy Sauce

Bowl of braised pork belly with soy sauce served over rice

Braised pork belly with soy sauce is a rich and savory dish that brings together tender chunks of pork belly, infused with the umami flavor of soy sauce and the sweetness of various spices. The slow cooking process makes the meat incredibly tender, allowing it to soak up all the delicious flavors. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be served with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a bit of patience while it cooks to perfection. As one of the 10 most popular pork belly recipes, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table with its mouthwatering taste and aroma.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds pork belly, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork: In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the pork belly pieces and sear until browned on all sides.
  2. Add Ingredients: Stir in garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer.
  3. Cook Slowly: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  4. Finish and Serve: Stir in chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy over a bed of rice or with your favorite side dishes.

Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich

A delicious Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich with fresh herbs and pickled vegetables.

The Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. This Vietnamese sandwich features succulent pork belly, paired with crunchy vegetables and fresh herbs, all tucked into a light and airy baguette. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy elements makes every bite a taste sensation. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

This sandwich is not just filling; it’s a vibrant meal that brings a sense of joy with each ingredient working in harmony. The crispy pork belly melts in your mouth, while the pickled veggies add a zesty crunch. Served with a spread of spicy mayo or pate, this Banh Mi is sure to be a hit. Ready to get cooking? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork belly
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 French baguette
  • 1/2 cup pickled carrots
  • 1/2 cup pickled daikon
  • Fresh cucumber slices
  • Cilantro leaves
  • Chili mayo (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and garlic powder. Add the pork belly and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cook the Pork: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated pork belly on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until crispy. Let it rest before slicing.
  3. Prepare the Bread: While the pork is cooking, slice the baguette lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Lightly toast if desired.
  4. Assemble the Sandwich: Layer sliced pork belly into the baguette, followed by pickled carrots, pickled daikon, cucumber slices, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle with chili mayo if using.
  5. Serve: Enjoy your homemade Pork Belly Banh Mi sandwich immediately, and savor the delicious medley of flavors!

Slow-Roasted Pork Belly with Crackling

A beautifully roasted pork belly with crispy crackling, sliced and served on a wooden board.

This slow-roasted pork belly recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, combining tender meat with irresistible crackling. The slow cooking transforms the pork into a juicy delight, while the skin becomes crispy and golden, adding a satisfying crunch. It’s simple enough for a weekend dinner, yet impressive enough for special occasions.

The combination of savory spices and the rich flavor of the pork makes every bite memorable. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 pounds pork belly
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Score the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat.
  3. Rub the pork belly all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Place the pork belly on a rack in a roasting pan, skin-side up. Roast for about 2 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender.
  5. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the skin is crispy and bubbly.
  6. Let the pork belly rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.

Spicy Pork Belly Ramen

Delicious bowl of spicy pork belly ramen with soft-boiled eggs and green onions

Spicy pork belly ramen is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and comforting textures. The crispy pork belly adds a savory crunch to the bowl, while the spicy broth warms you from the inside out. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a bowl of ramen that rivals your favorite restaurants. The combination of tender noodles, spiced broth, and toppings like soft-boiled eggs and green onions makes this dish a hit for all ages.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon miso paste
  • 2 teaspoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 2 packs ramen noodles
  • 2 soft-boiled eggs
  • 1 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Optional toppings: nori sheets, bean sprouts, sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pork Belly: In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the pork belly pieces and cook until browned and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Broth: In the same pan, add chicken broth, soy sauce, miso paste, and chili paste. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  3. Cook the Noodles: Add the ramen noodles to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Bowl: Divide the ramen into bowls. Top with crispy pork belly, halves of soft-boiled eggs, and chopped green onions. Add any additional toppings you like.
  5. Serve: Enjoy your spicy pork belly ramen hot, garnished with your favorite extras!

Pork Belly and Kimchi Stir-Fry

A delicious stir-fry featuring pork belly and vibrant vegetables, showcasing the rich flavors of kimchi.

Pork belly and kimchi stir-fry is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of pork belly with the spicy, tangy kick of kimchi. It’s a quick and simple recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want something comforting yet exciting. The juicy pork belly pairs wonderfully with the fermented vegetables, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes.

This dish is not only easy to make, but it also allows for some creativity. You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. In no time, you’ll have a hearty meal that brings together the best of Korean cuisine!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups kimchi, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the kimchi and bell peppers, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to combine all the ingredients well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy this delicious stir-fry with steamed rice!

Maple Glazed Pork Belly Skewers

Maple glazed pork belly skewers on a grill.

Maple Glazed Pork Belly Skewers are a delightful treat that combines the rich, savory flavor of pork belly with the sweet, sticky goodness of maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or simply a tasty dinner at home. With its mouthwatering taste and appealing presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests!

Making these skewers is quite simple. You’ll marinate the pork belly in a mix of maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Once grilled to perfection, these skewers will have a caramelized outer layer while remaining juicy and tender inside. They are not only delicious but also fun to eat!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Add the pork belly cubes to the marinade, stirring to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated pork belly onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and nicely caramelized.
  6. Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your sweet and savory maple glazed pork belly skewers!

Pork Belly Fried Rice

A delicious plate of pork belly fried rice topped with a fried egg and green onions.

Pork belly fried rice is a delightful dish that combines the rich, crispy goodness of pork belly with fluffy rice and a mix of vibrant vegetables. The savory flavor of the pork belly adds a hearty touch, making each bite satisfying and full of umami. It’s easy to make and perfect for using leftover rice and pork, turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. The addition of a fried egg on top elevates the dish, offering a delicious creamy yolk that melds beautifully with the flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, pork belly fried rice is sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 1 cup pork belly, diced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pork Belly: In a large skillet, cook the diced pork belly over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender. Push them to one side of the pan.
  3. Scramble the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until cooked through, then mix with the vegetables.
  4. Add the Rice: Add the cooked rice and pork belly back into the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything together until heated through.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper. Serve with a fried egg on top if desired.

Pork Belly Sliders with Pickles

Pork belly sliders are a delicious and satisfying treat that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with the tang of pickles. The crispy, tender pork belly is complemented by soft slider buns, making it a fun and easy dish to serve at gatherings or enjoy during a cozy night in. These sliders are not only flavorful but also simple to make, making them a popular choice for any occasion.

The combination of juicy pork belly, zesty pickles, and your favorite barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these sliders are sure to impress your friends and family. Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork belly, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 12 slider buns
  • 1 cup pickles, sliced
  • Optional: sliced onions and jalapeños for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Season the pork belly pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the Pork Belly: Place the pork belly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 2 hours or until the meat is tender and crispy. You can also finish them on a hot grill for an extra char.
  3. Assemble the Sliders: Slice the slider buns in half. Spread a layer of barbecue sauce on the bottom half, add a piece of pork belly, then layer with pickles. Add more barbecue sauce if desired.
  4. Serve: Top with the other half of the bun. Optionally, add sliced onions and jalapeños for an extra kick. Enjoy your sliders warm!