Get ready to indulge in the most mouthwatering, crispy, and succulent pork belly dishes from around the world! Pork belly, also known as bacon, has gained popularity globally due to its rich flavor profile and satisfying texture. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new recipe ideas, this article is perfect for you. We’ve curated 18 irresistible crispy pork belly recipes that cater to various tastes and cuisines. From classic Chinese siu yuk to Korean-style samgyeopsal, Vietnamese fish sauce caramel, and even some international twists like tacos and banh mi sandwiches – we’ve got it all! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the globe, highlighting the best ways to cook crispy pork belly for every occasion. So, get ready to drool over these delectable dishes and discover your new favorite recipe!
Classic Chinese Crispy Pork Belly (Siu Yuk)
A beloved Cantonese dish, Siu Yuk is a crispy-skinned pork belly that’s braised to perfection, yielding a tender and flavorful meat. This recipe yields a deliciously crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil for deep-frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F).
2. In a blender or food processor, blend soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, garlic, ginger, and star anise until smooth.
3. Rub the marinade all over the pork belly, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork belly in a large Dutch oven or clay pot with a lid.
5. Add water to cover the meat, then bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
7. Remove from heat and let cool.
8. Cut into smaller pieces, if desired.
9. Deep-fry in hot oil (375°F) until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours braising + 5-7 minutes deep-frying
Vietnamese Crispy Pork Belly with Fish Sauce Caramel
This popular Vietnamese dish combines tender pork belly with a sweet and savory fish sauce caramel, perfectly balanced by crispy texture. A flavorful and aromatic treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. Cut the pork belly into 1-inch cubes and place in a large bowl.
4. Add garlic, ginger, black pepper, and salt to the pork belly and mix until coated.
5. Pour the fish sauce caramel mixture over the pork belly and toss until coated.
6. Place the pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Crispy Pork Belly with Basil and Chili
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this crispy pork belly recipe, bursting with fresh basil and spicy chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Add pork belly and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove pork from marinade and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the pork and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped basil and sliced chilies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Crispy Pork Belly (Samgyeopsal) with Ssamjang
Experience the crispy, sweet, and savory delight of Korean-style pork belly, served with a side of tangy ssamjang sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup crushed black pepper
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ssamjang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and crushed black pepper.
2. Add the pork belly strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry the pork belly strips in batches until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry. Brush the slurry onto the fried pork for extra crispiness.
7. Serve hot with ssamjang sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including marinating time)
Oven-Roasted Crispy Pork Belly with Fennel and Garlic
This recipe showcases the perfect balance of tender pork belly, crispy skin, and aromatic flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin on
– 2 bulbs fennel, sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together fennel and garlic.
3. Place the pork belly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Rub the fennel-garlic mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pork belly and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Crispy Pork Belly with Apple Cider Glaze
Transform tender pork belly into a crispy, sweet, and savory masterpiece with this slow-cooked recipe. The perfect combination of textures and flavors will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork belly in a slow cooker and add water.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Increase oven temperature to broil (high).
8. Place the pork belly under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Spicy Crispy Pork Belly Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this sweet and spicy fusion of crispy pork belly, crunchy slaw, and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Belly:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the pineapple salsa by combining pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Assemble tacos with crispy pork belly, pineapple salsa, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich
Transform your lunch with this mouthwatering sandwich featuring crispy pork belly, fresh herbs, and creamy aioli on a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 baguettes
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– Aioli (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic. Add the sliced pork belly and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with vegetable oil.
4. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
5. Slice the baguettes and toast.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading aioli on each baguette half, followed by a few slices of roasted pork belly, pickled carrots and daikon, and fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for pork belly
Crispy Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork belly with a comforting bowl of ramen noodles and a runny soft-boiled egg. The crispy pork belly adds a satisfying texture to this hearty and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– 2 eggs
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork belly, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, onion, and garlic. Cover and braise for 2 hours.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Boil eggs for 6-7 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Peel and set aside.
5. Remove pork belly from the braising liquid and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
6. Assemble bowls by placing noodles at the bottom, followed by sliced pork belly, soft-boiled egg, and garnishes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (braising) + 20-25 minutes (roasting)
Crispy Pork Belly Fried Rice with Scallions
This recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy pork belly with the simplicity of a classic fried rice dish, topped with crunchy scallions. It’s a perfect fusion of textures and tastes that will satisfy any craving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced crispy pork belly
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the diced pork belly and soy sauce to the rice mixture. Stir-fry until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Sliders with Pickled Vegetables
Crispy Pork Belly Sliders with Pickled Vegetables Recipe
Summary: Elevate your slider game with tender, crispy pork belly and tangy pickled vegetables, all wrapped up in a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pickling ingredients (see below)
– Slider buns
Pickling Ingredients:
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt.
2. Place pork belly on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. Brush with buttermilk, then sprinkle with the sugar mixture.
3. Let pork belly sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to marinate.
4. Dredge pork belly in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry pork belly in hot oil until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly.
7. Slice pickling vegetables into thin strips. In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. Add the sliced vegetables and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to pickle.
8. Assemble sliders by placing pork belly slices onto buns and topping with pickled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including marinating time)
Crispy Pork Belly Pancakes with Hoisin Sauce
A twist on traditional pancakes, these crispy pork belly pancakes are a savory delight served with a sweet and tangy hoisin sauce. Perfect for a unique breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hoisin sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
2. Add the sliced pork belly to the bowl and toss until coated with the dry mixture.
3. Dip each piece of pork into the beaten egg, then coat with the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the pork belly pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with hoisin sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Bibimbap with Gochujang
Experience the harmonious balance of textures and flavors in this Korean-inspired dish, featuring crispy pork belly, savory bibimbap, and a kick from gochujang.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup gochujang
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the pork belly and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Bake the pork belly for 20-25 minutes or until crispy. Let it cool.
4. Cook the mixed vegetables according to your preference.
5. In a separate pan, cook the beaten eggs into thin omelette strips.
6. Assemble the bibimbap by placing a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, followed by adding the pork belly, mixed vegetables, and egg strips.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Stir-Fry with Green Beans
This recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy pork belly with the crunch and sweetness of green beans, all in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly pieces and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the green beans and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Return the pork belly to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Bao Buns with Cucumber
Experience the harmony of tender pork belly, crispy bao buns, and refreshing cucumber slices in this simple yet flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 bao bun wrappers (available at Asian markets or online)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Roast the pork belly for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and crispy.
5. Cook bao buns according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the bao buns with roasted pork belly, cucumber slices, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Hash with Potatoes and Eggs
Transform leftover pork belly into a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish, packed with crispy potatoes, runny eggs, and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for using up roasted pork belly and making the most of your meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced leftover pork belly
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While potatoes are roasting, cook diced pork belly in a pan over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it crisps.
5. Crack eggs into the same pan and scramble them with the cooked pork belly. Season to taste.
6. To assemble, place roasted potatoes on a plate or platter, top with crispy pork belly hash, and serve.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Salad with Mango and Mint
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this dish combines the crispy texture of pork belly with the sweetness of mango and the freshness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season pork belly with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, and honey. Add diced mango and chopped mint leaves.
3. Once the pork belly is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad bowl.
4. Toss everything together gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Skewers with Honey Sriracha Glaze
Crispy Pork Belly Skewers with Honey Sriracha Glaze: A sweet and spicy twist on traditional pork belly, these skewers are perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Add the pork belly cubes to the bowl and toss until coated with the glaze.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of pork onto each skewer.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the skewers on it.
6. Drizzle sesame oil over the skewers and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispiest, most irresistible pork belly recipes from around the world! From classic Chinese Siu Yuk to spicy Korean Samgyeopsal, and from sweet Thai basil and chili to savory Vietnamese fish sauce caramel, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party dish, these 18 mouth-watering recipes will guide you through the process of transforming pork belly into a crispy, golden delight that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
