If you're searching for a show-stopping dish that combines rich flavors with an irresistible crunch, look no further than this Easy Baked Pork Belly recipe! Imagine succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly with a perfectly crispy skin that crackles with every bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this dish is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork belly
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
Instructions
- Remove the pork belly from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Pat the pork belly completely dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
- Score the skin of the pork belly in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife, making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This helps render the fat and create a crispy crackling.
- Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl to create a seasoning blend.
- Rub the entire pork belly with olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
- Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over all surfaces of the pork belly, massaging it into the meat and skin.
- Place the pork belly skin-side up in a roasting pan or baking dish with high sides to catch rendering fat.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice against the grain into thick or thin pieces as desired and serve immediately.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: For the best results, remove the pork belly from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This allows it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Preheat the Oven: Make sure to preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and position the rack in the middle. A well-heated oven is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.
- Dry It Well: Pat the pork belly completely dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
- Score the Skin: Use a sharp knife to score the skin in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep. This technique helps render the fat and promotes a crunchy texture.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Rub the pork belly with olive oil and generously apply your seasoning blend for maximum flavor.
- Use a Roasting Pan: Place the pork belly skin-side up in a roasting pan or baking dish with high sides to catch the rendering fat, preventing a mess in your oven.
- Check Internal Temperature: Bake until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the pork belly to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
- Slice Against the Grain: For the best texture, slice the pork belly against the grain into thick or thin pieces, depending on your preference.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious creation right away for the best flavor and texture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 705kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 62g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Cholesterol: 200mg
