Are you ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing? Look no further! Today, we’re diving into the world of Japanese pork belly recipes, and we’ve got 18 mouth-watering options to get you started. Pork belly, also known as buta in Japanese, is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, and when cooked to perfection, it’s nothing short of divine.
From classic braises to bold marinades, we’re exploring the full range of flavors and techniques that make Japanese pork belly so irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s get cooking!
Braised Japanese Pork Belly with Soy and Ginger
This classic Japanese dish, known as “Kakuni,” is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The slow-cooked pork belly becomes tender and unctuous, infused with the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 star anise pod
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and star anise.
3. Add the pork belly to the pot, fat side up. Cover with a lid or foil.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow-Cooked Miso Glazed Pork Belly
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this tender and savory slow-cooked pork belly glazed with a sweet and savory miso sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, sake, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the pork belly to the slow cooker and pour in the glaze.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in grated ginger and garlic.
6. Serve the tender pork belly with the caramelized glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Japanese Pork Belly Kakuni (Simmered Pork Belly)
Kakuni is a classic Japanese dish that showcases the tender and flavorful qualities of pork belly. This simmered pork belly recipe is a comforting and savory delight, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork belly, sliced into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake
– 2 tablespoons mirin
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork belly, soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
2. Add water to cover the pork by about an inch.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Grilled Pork Belly Yakitori Skewers
Elevate your BBQ game with these sweet and savory grilled pork belly yakitori skewers, perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Add the pork belly pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated pork belly onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This rich and comforting ramen bowl combines the unctuous flavors of slow-cooked pork belly, savory chicken broth, and perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork belly, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot; continue simmering for another 15 minutes.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Crack soft-boiled eggs into the pot and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until whites are set and yolks are still runny.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked noodles at the bottom, followed by sliced pork belly, and finishing with a soft-boiled egg. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spicy Pork Belly Donburi Rice Bowl
This recipe combines the rich flavors of spicy pork belly with a savory donburi rice bowl, perfect for a comforting and filling meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this mouthwatering dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thick strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt to taste
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and gochugaru. Add the sliced pork belly and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pork belly from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy on the outside.
3. Cook Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions. Mix with salt and water to taste.
4. Assemble the donburi rice bowl by placing a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, topping with sliced pork belly, and garnishing with scallions and sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Belly Hot Pot (Buta no Shabu-Shabu)
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this hearty Pork Belly Hot Pot recipe, featuring tender pork belly and a savory dashi broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups dashi broth (see note)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Noodles or your choice of hot pot ingredients
Instructions:
1. Combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, and mirin in a large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add pork belly, onion, and garlic. Simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
3. Add green onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Serve hot with your choice of noodles or hot pot ingredients.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Note: Dashi broth is a traditional Japanese cooking stock made from dried kelp (kombu) and dried bonito flakes (katsuobushi). You can find dashi broth at most Asian markets or online. If unavailable, use a combination of chicken and pork broth as a substitute.
Pork Belly Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake)
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese street food that typically consists of a savory pancake filled with various ingredients. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding tender pork belly and crispy tempura bits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup diced pork belly (cooked)
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup tempura bits (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, salt, and sugar to form a smooth batter.
2. Add diced pork belly, chopped cabbage, tempura bits, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sake (if using) to the batter. Mix well.
3. Heat about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or okonomiyaki pan over medium heat.
4. Pour about 1/2 cup of the batter into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom is crispy.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for another 2 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes)
Pork Belly Teriyaki with Sesame Seeds
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork belly with the sweetness of teriyaki sauce, topped with crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add the sliced pork belly to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the pork belly and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pork belly is caramelized and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Belly Sushi Rolls (Buta Toro Maki)
Experience the fusion of Japanese and Western flavors with these unique sushi rolls, featuring crispy pork belly as the star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pork belly, diced
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pork belly according to your preference (e.g., slow cooker or pan-frying).
2. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
3. Cut the nori sheet into desired sizes for rolling.
4. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Arrange the diced pork belly in the middle of the rice.
7. Fold the nori over the filling to form a roll.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
9. Serve immediately and garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding cooking time for pork belly)
Pork Belly Stir-Fry with Garlic and Green Onions
This recipe brings together the rich flavor of pork belly, pungency of garlic, and sweetness of green onions in a quick and easy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and crispy.
3. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside. Leave any juices behind.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Add the green onions and cook for an additional minute, until slightly caramelized.
7. Return the pork belly to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the pork is coated in the flavors.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Belly Skewers with Yuzu Kosho Marinade
Yuzu kosho, a Japanese condiment made from yuzu citrus and chili peppers, adds a bold and tangy flavor to these pork belly skewers. Perfect for a unique appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick strips
– 1/4 cup yuzu kosho
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yuzu kosho, soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
3. Add pork belly slices to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Thread pork belly onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork reaches desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pork Belly Gyoza (Pan-Fried Dumplings)
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of pork belly and crispy pan-frying to create a delicious twist on traditional gyoza. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy these savory dumplings at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ground pork, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center.
3. Dampen the edges of the wrapper with water.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl it around.
6. Pan-fry the gyoza for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (5-6 minutes per batch)
Pork Belly Udon Noodle Soup
Pork Belly Udon Noodle Soup Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Japanese-inspired goodness! This hearty soup combines the richness of pork belly with the springy texture of udon noodles and the soothing warmth of a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 8 ounces udon noodles
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork belly and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, water, soy sauce, ginger, and sake. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir pork belly back into the pot and cook until heated through.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and add cooked noodles. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Belly Rice Balls (Onigiri with Pork Belly Filling)
A twist on the classic Japanese rice ball, this recipe adds tender pork belly to create a savory and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/4 cup pork belly filling (see note)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice and salt. Mix well until the rice is evenly seasoned.
2. Add water and rice vinegar to the rice mixture. Mix until the rice is sticky and holds together when formed into a ball.
3. Divide the rice mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Flatten each portion into a disk shape.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of pork belly filling in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the rice over the filling to form a triangle or oval shape. Press edges together to seal.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes per batch (depending on number of onigiri)
Note: Pork belly filling can be made by braising pork belly in soy sauce, sake, and sugar until tender, then shredding it. Alternatively, use store-bought or homemade pork belly confit as a substitute.
Pork Belly Sukiyaki with Tofu and Vegetables
Savor the rich flavors of Japan’s iconic hot pot dish, Pork Belly Sukiyaki, elevated by the addition of silky tofu and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups dashi broth (or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp mirin
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes
– Assorted vegetables: shiitake mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add pork belly strips to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly tender.
3. Add tofu and vegetables to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until ingredients are cooked through.
4. Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Belly Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Experience the delightful combination of crispy pork belly and tangy dipping sauce with this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce ingredients (see below)
Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and soda water to form a batter.
2. Dip pork belly strips into the batter, coating evenly.
3. Fry coated pork belly in hot vegetable oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
4. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
5. Serve with Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Belly Curry with Japanese Curry Roux
A rich and flavorful curry dish that combines tender pork belly with a creamy Japanese curry roux, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux (available at Asian markets or online)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the curry roux and water until smooth. Add the coconut milk and stir well.
4. Return the pork belly to the pan and pour in the curry mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Japan with these 18 mouthwatering pork belly recipes! From classic braises and slow-cooked glazes to grilled skewers and savory hot pots, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Explore traditional dishes like kakuni and teriyaki, or try modern twists on old favorites. With ingredients like miso, soy sauce, and ginger, these recipes showcase the best of Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these tender and delicious pork belly recipes are sure to please.
