When it comes to weeknight dinners, we often find ourselves stuck in a rut, wondering what to make that will please everyone at the table. One solution: crispy side pork! These delicious and easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful but don’t have all day to spend in the kitchen. From classic dishes like pan-fried side pork with garlic butter to more adventurous options like spicy Korean-style stir-fry, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of crispy side pork recipes that are perfect for weeknights. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or something new and exciting, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the delicious results!
Garlic Butter Pan-Fried Side Pork
A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to please! This pan-fried pork dish is infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb side pork (about 1-2 inches thick)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the side pork with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Add the garlic butter mixture to the preheated pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
5. Place the side pork in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy browned and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Glazed Side Pork Bites
Get ready to elevate your pork game with these tender and sticky bites glazed to perfection with a hint of sweetness. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these bite-sized morsels are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound side pork (or pork belly), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add garlic and whisk until combined.
4. Toss pork cubes with the glaze until evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the glazed pork bites in a single layer.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Side Pork Stir-Fry
This spicy Korean side dish is a flavorful and savory accompaniment to any meal. A sweet and spicy combination of ingredients, including crispy pork and crunchy vegetables, will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or side pork, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil, Gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked pork to the pan. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Beer-Battered Side Pork Strips
Crispy Beer-Battered Side Pork Strips Recipe Summary:
Elevate your side dishes with this addictive beer-battered pork strip recipe, perfect for game-day gatherings or family dinner nights. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these mouthwatering strips are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound side pork strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold beer
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
2. Gradually pour in beer and buttermilk, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip each pork strip into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered pork strips for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil with paper towels; serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Slow-Roasted Side Pork with Herbs
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights, this slow-roasted side pork is infused with the warm flavors of herbs and spices. The result is a tender, juicy pork shoulder that falls apart easily and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless side pork
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or roasting pan, cover with lid or foil, and roast for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Side Pork and Apple Skillet
A hearty, flavorful skillet dish that pairs sweet apples with savory side pork and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless side pork, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add side pork cubes; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove side pork from skillet; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced apples to skillet; cook until tender and lightly caramelized, about 8 minutes.
5. Stir in cinnamon; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return side pork to skillet; toss to combine with apples and sauce.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven; bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until side pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Mustard Glazed Side Pork
This recipe brings a sweet and tangy twist to traditional pork glazes, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of maple syrup, mustard, and spices creates a rich and savory flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs side pork (boneless), trimmed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, olive oil, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the side pork in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Side Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for Side Pork Tacos paired with a sweet and tangy Pineapple Salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Side Pork:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the Pineapple Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled pork, pineapple salsa, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Side Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavor of side pork with the crunch of fresh cabbage, all in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound side pork, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the side pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and cook until slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the cabbage and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return the cooked side pork to the pan and stir-fry until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Side Pork Bites
Elevate your pork game with these tender and savory bites, wrapped in crispy bacon and infused with sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound side pork, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap each pork cube with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped pork bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the sweet and tangy mixture over the pork bites, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Side Pork with Caramelized Onions
Side Pork with Caramelized Onions Recipe
This classic Southern dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods. Sweet and savory, this side pork recipe is a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound side pork or belly (about 4-5 inches long)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Patch the side pork with a sharp knife, removing any excess fat.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the side pork over medium heat until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden.
- Return the side pork to the skillet and spoon some of the caramelized onion mixture over it. Season with salt, pepper, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
- Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total
Side Pork and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb side pork, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the side pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the side pork from the skillet and set aside. Leave any juices in the pan.
4. Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Return the browned side pork to the skillet and stir to combine with the potato mixture.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Side Pork Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This recipe combines the richness of side pork with the comfort of a soft-boiled egg, all wrapped up in a flavorful bowl of ramen noodles. It’s a perfect meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 slices of side pork (about 6 oz)
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 soft-boiled egg
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Slice the side pork into thin strips and pan-fry until crispy and golden brown.
3. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked noodles and side pork to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Place a soft-boiled egg on top of the ramen and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Side Pork and Mushroom Skewers
Add a flavorful twist to your grilling or BBQ game with these savory side pork and mushroom skewers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as bell, button, and cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or BBQ to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add pork cubes and mushrooms to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Thread 2-3 pieces of pork and 1-2 mushroom slices onto each skewer.
5. Grill or BBQ skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Side Pork with Rosemary and Garlic
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional side pork, this recipe combines the richness of pork belly with the pungency of rosemary and garlic. Perfect as a main course or side dish, it’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb side pork (also known as pork belly), skin removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Score the side pork in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Rub the garlic-rosemary mixture all over the pork, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Place the side pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Side Pork Banh Mi Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful and refreshing Vietnamese-inspired treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of side pork (or substitute with bacon or ham)
– 1/2 cup pickled carrots and daikon
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 baguette slices
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and garlic.
3. Add the side pork slices to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill or bake the marinated side pork until crispy and caramelized.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of mayonnaise on each baguette slice, followed by a few slices of the grilled side pork, some pickled carrots and daikon, and finally garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Side Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender side pork with crunchy green beans, this stir-fry is a quick and easy addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound side pork (or lean pork shoulder), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add green beans and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return pork to the pan and stir-fry until combined with green beans and sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Side Pork with Sweet Chili Glaze
A sweet and smoky twist on classic side pork, this recipe adds a tangy kick from the sweet chili glaze. Perfect for BBQs or gatherings, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds side pork
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the side pork, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the side pork in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. While the side pork is cooking, mix together sweet chili sauce and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
7. After the side pork has roasted for 2 hours, brush it with the sweet chili glaze and return to the oven for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these crispy side pork recipes! From classic pan-frying to innovative stir-fries and sandwiches, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Pan-Fried Side Pork for a rich and savory twist, or Honey Glazed Side Pork Bites for a sweet and sticky snack. Spice up your meal with Spicy Korean Side Pork Stir-Fry or go old-school with Crispy Beer-Battered Side Pork Strips. And don’t forget to save room for the slow-cooked goodness of Slow-Roasted Side Pork with Herbs. Treat yourself to a delicious weeknight dinner!
