How to Make Perfectly Crispy Pork Belly

TLDRLearn the technique to make incredibly tender and crispy pork belly. Sear the skin, season it with salt, roast it with flavorful spices and vegetables, and slow-cook it for two and a half hours. Serve with a rustic sauce and enjoy!

Key insights

🔪Use a sharp knife to cut diamond-like patterns on the pork belly skin to achieve a crispy texture.

🧂Rub salt all over the pork belly to help create a crispy crackling on top.

🌿Infuse the pork belly with fennel, garlic, star anise, and bay leaves for additional flavor.

🍷Deglaze the pan with white wine to enhance the aroma and taste of the dish.

Slow-roast the pork belly at 180 degrees Celsius for two and a half hours to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Q&A

How can I make the pork belly skin extra crispy?

To make the pork belly skin extra crispy, ensure the skin is dry before seasoning it with salt. You can also use a hairdryer to further dry the skin before roasting.

What can I use as a substitute for fennel?

If you don't have fennel, you can use cumin seeds, coriander seeds, or dried oregano to add flavor to the pork belly.

Can I use red wine instead of white wine?

Yes, you can use red wine as a substitute for white wine. However, keep in mind that it will give the dish a slightly different flavor.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, you can simmer it for a longer time or add a cornstarch slurry while it's simmering.

Can I use this recipe for other cuts of meat?

While this recipe is specifically for pork belly, you can try applying the same slow-roasting technique to other fatty cuts of meat like beef brisket or lamb shoulder.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Use a sharp knife to cut diamond-like patterns on the pork belly skin.

02:20Infuse the pork belly with fennel, garlic, star anise, and bay leaves for additional flavor.

03:30Slow-roast the pork belly at 180 degrees Celsius for two and a half hours.

04:00Stir through chopped mint and serve on toasted bread with crumbled feta cheese.