Get ready to fall in love with the crispiest, most mouthwatering pork belly recipes from around the world! Pork belly, also known as bacon or pancetta, has become a culinary superstar in recent years. Its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked just right make it a perfect addition to any dish. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across continents to explore 18 irresistible crispy pork belly recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic Chinese-inspired dish or something more adventurous like Korean spicy pork belly, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Chinese Crispy Pork Belly (Siu Yuk)
A staple dish in Cantonese cuisine, Siu Yuk is a crispy-skinned, tender-boned pork belly that’s both savory and sweet. This recipe yields a mouthwatering, flavorful treat perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin on
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Add pork belly, garlic, and five-spice powder; massage the mixture into the meat.
4. Let marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Pat dry with paper towels.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork belly until crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
8. Transfer to oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Spicy Crispy Pork Belly (Dwaeji Bulgogi)
This recipe combines the tender and juicy texture of pork belly with a sweet and spicy Korean-inspired marinade, then crisps it to perfection. The result is an addictive snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the pork belly slices to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade and place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Crispy Pork Belly with Basil (Moo Krob)
Experience the addictive crunch and savory flavor of Thailand’s beloved street food, Moo Krob. This recipe yields a crispy pork belly that’s perfect for snacking or as a main dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 cups basil leaves, chopped
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, oil, garlic, ginger, curry paste, salt, and pepper.
2. Add pork belly pieces; toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry pork belly in batches until crispy (5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, mix fish sauce and chopped basil.
5. Serve crispy pork belly with the fish sauce-basil mixture spooned over top. Garnish with additional basil leaves and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Crispy Pork Belly with Rice (Thit Heo Quay)
Savor the caramelized crunch of Vietnamese-style pork belly, paired with fluffy rice and a hint of aromatic spices. This classic dish is a staple in many Vietnamese households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork belly, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and black pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
3. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork belly until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Serve the crispy pork belly with steamed rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 2 hours (including marinating time)
Oven-Roasted Crispy Pork Belly with Crackling
Get ready for a flavorful and textured delight! This oven-roasted pork belly recipe yields a crispy, caramelized exterior and a tender, juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork belly on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the meat.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 2 hours and 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Pork Belly Bites
Tender, juicy pork belly meets crispy perfection in this easy and addictive snack recipe. Perfect for game days or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and black pepper.
3. Add pork belly cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a pinch of salt.
6. Toss pork cubes in cornstarch mixture to coat evenly.
7. Load the Air Fryer basket with coated pork cubes in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites!
Crispy Pork Belly Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
A fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and Mexican flair, these Crispy Pork Belly Tacos with Pineapple Salsa will tantalize your taste buds. Crisp pork belly meets sweet and tangy pineapple salsa, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced cilantro, sliced radishes, crumbled queso fresco
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil. Add the pork belly, making sure it’s coated evenly.
3. Roast the pork belly for 20-25 minutes or until crispy on the outside.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing the pork belly into thin strips and serving with pineapple salsa, your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich
Transforming pork belly into a crispy delight, then sandwiching it between soft baguette and fresh herbs creates a truly addictive flavor experience. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a mouth-watering Crispy Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 baguette slices
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro leaves
– Sriracha mayo (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil. Add the pork belly slices and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
3. Assemble the sandwich by spreading a layer of sriracha mayo (if using) on each baguette slice, then topping with pickled carrots and daikon, crispy pork belly, and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory with this Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly recipe. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and five-spice powder.
3. Place the pork belly in a shallow dish and brush with the honey glaze.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork belly until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total
Crispy Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
A rich and savory Japanese-inspired bowl filled with tender pork belly, soft-boiled egg, and a comforting ramen broth. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– 2 cups pork broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Score the pork belly in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the glaze.
5. Roast for 30 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
6. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
7. Assemble bowls by placing noodles in the bottom, adding roasted pork belly, and topping with soft-boiled eggs.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Crispy Pork Belly Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Elevate your stir-fry game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy pork belly, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and broccoli, and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Return the pork belly to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Sliders with Pickled Onions
Elevate your slider game with this mouth-watering combination of crispy pork belly and tangy pickled onions. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these sliders are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 8 slider buns
– Pickled onions (see below)
– Coleslaw or kimchi (optional)
Pickled Onions:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
3. Score the pork belly in a diamond pattern and rub with vegetable oil.
4. Place the pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 30 minutes or until crispy.
5. Meanwhile, prepare pickled onions by combining sliced onion, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and water in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to pickle.
6. Assemble sliders by slicing the pork belly into thin strips and placing on slider buns. Top with pickled onions and coleslaw or kimchi (if using).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this flavorful and satisfying dish that combines crispy pork belly, savory soy sauce, and fluffy cooked rice. Perfect as a main course or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced crispy pork belly (see note)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
5. Add the crispy pork belly and soy sauce; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Pancakes (Okonomiyaki Style)
Experience the savory fusion of Japanese and Korean flavors with these crispy pork belly pancakes, inspired by the popular Okonomiyaki dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated pork belly (or substitute with bacon)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Add grated pork belly, water, and salt. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a ladle, scoop the batter into the hot oil, creating small pancake shapes (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Enjoy your crispy pork belly pancakes hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as tonkatsu sauce, green onions, and pickled ginger!
Crispy Pork Belly Salad with Mango Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavors of crispy pork belly with the sweetness of mango and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Mango dressing ingredients:
+ 1 ripe mango, pureed
+ 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
+ 1 tbsp honey
+ 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and five-spice powder. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly.
3. Drizzle vegetable oil on the pork belly and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast the pork belly for 30-40 minutes or until crispy.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together mango dressing ingredients. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
6. Assemble the salad by placing mixed greens, roasted pork belly, diced mango, and crumbled feta cheese (if using) on a plate.
7. Drizzle with mango dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes for pork belly, plus preparation time for the rest of the ingredients.
Crispy Pork Belly Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Crispy Pork Belly Skewers with Peanut Sauce: A fusion of Asian flavors and grilled perfection, these bite-sized skewers are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Peanut Sauce (see below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Add pork belly cubes; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Thread 4-5 pieces of pork belly onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until crispy and caramelized.
5. Serve with Peanut Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Poutine with Cheese Curds
Elevate your poutine game with this indulgent twist, featuring crispy pork belly and gooey cheese curds. This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4-6 cheese curds (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– 2 cups cooked French fries
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder.
2. Toss pork belly pieces with the sugar mixture until coated. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden.
4. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry cheese curds until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Assemble poutine by placing French fries on a serving plate, topping with pork belly, and finishing with cheese curds. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Pork Belly Bao Buns with Cucumber
Transform traditional bao buns into a flavorful and refreshing treat by filling them with crispy pork belly, crunchy cucumber, and tangy pickled carrots. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bao bun wrappers
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups water
– 2 cucumbers, sliced
– Pickled carrots (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and brown sugar.
3. Place the pork belly in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it’s coated evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Cook the pork belly according to package instructions. Let cool before slicing into thin strips.
5. Assemble the bao buns by placing a few slices of crispy pork belly onto each bun, followed by a slice of cucumber and some pickled carrots.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (including marinating time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispiest, most mouthwatering pork belly recipes from around the world! From classic Chinese siu yuk to Korean dwaeji bulgogi and Thai moo krob, this collection of 18 irresistible recipes has something for every occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of crispy pork belly ramen or a flavorful banh mi sandwich, these dishes will satisfy your cravings. Discover the perfect recipe for your next dinner party, family gathering, or cozy night in with our ultimate guide to crispy pork belly delights.
