Discover how to make the ultimate pork belly with our detailed recipe. Whether you prefer it roasted for a crispy exterior or slow-cooked for unbeatable tenderness, this guide offers step-by-step instructions for creating a succulent and flavorful pork belly dish. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe ensures a delicious meal with every bite.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs pork belly, skin on

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tbsp salt

- 1 tsp black pepper

- 1 tbsp smoked paprika

- 1 tbsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp onion powder

- 1 tsp dried thyme

- 1 tsp dried rosemary

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

Preheat Oven (if roasting): Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Prepare the Pork Belly:

  - Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels.

  - Score the skin in a crosshatch pattern using a sharp knife. Be careful not to cut into the meat.

  - Rub the pork belly all over with olive oil.

Season the Pork Belly:

  - In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.

  - Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork belly, ensuring it gets into the scored skin.

Roasting Method:

  - Place the pork belly on a rack in a roasting pan.

  - Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the skin is crispy.

  - Let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Slow-Cooking Method:

  - Season the pork belly as described above.

  - Place it in a slow cooker.

  - Mix chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey in a small bowl and pour it over the pork belly.

  - Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

  - If desired, place the pork belly under a broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the skin after slow cooking.

Serve:

  - Slice the pork belly and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the rich, tender flavor of this delicious dish!

Nutritional Values

2 lbs Pork Belly, Skin On

  - Calories: 518

  - Fat: 53g

  - Protein: 8g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - High in fat, providing a rich, savory flavor.

  - Source of protein and essential amino acids.

  - Contains vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, zinc, and iron.

2 tbsp Olive Oil

 - Nutritional Values (per 100g):

  - Calories: 884

  - Fat: 100g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

  - Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy.

  - Contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols.

1 tbsp Salt

  - Sodium: 38758mg

Benefits:

  - Enhances flavor.

  - Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function (though excessive intake should be avoided).

1 tsp Black Pepper

  - Calories: 255

  - Carbohydrates: 64g

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and may aid in digestion.

  - Contains piperine, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

1 tbsp Smoked Paprika

  - Calories: 282

  - Carbohydrates: 54g

Benefits:

  - Adds a smoky flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin A.

1 tbsp Garlic Powder

  - Calories: 331

  - Carbohydrates: 72g

Benefits:

  - Adds a robust garlic flavor.

  - Contains compounds like allicin that have potential health benefits.

1 tsp Onion Powder

  - Calories: 341

  - Carbohydrates: 80g

Benefits:

  - Adds a subtle onion flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds.

1 tsp Dried Thyme

  - Calories: 101

  - Carbohydrates: 24g

Benefits:

  - Adds a savory flavor.

  - Contains vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health.

1 tsp Dried Rosemary

  - Calories: 131

  - Carbohydrates: 22g

Benefits:

  - Adds a fragrant, pine-like flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and compounds that may support digestion and memory.

1 Cup Chicken Broth

  - Calories: 12

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.4g

Benefits:

  - Adds moisture and flavor.

  - Provides a small amount of protein and minerals.

1 tbsp Soy Sauce

  - Calories: 53

  - Carbohydrates: 5g

Benefits:

  - Adds umami flavor.

  - Contains small amounts of protein and minerals.

1 tbsp Honey

  - Calories: 304

  - Carbohydrates: 82g

Benefits:

  - Adds natural sweetness.

  - Contains antioxidants and may have antimicrobial properties.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and well-seasoned pork belly dish, providing a balance of rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors with various nutritional benefits.