While pork belly may seem like a sophisticated dish, it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare. This indulgent cut of meat is perfect for elevating your meals, whether you’re cooking for loved ones or hosting a dinner party with friends. The combination of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat makes pork belly a crowd-pleaser among food enthusiasts worldwide. With its rich flavor profile, it’s no wonder why we’ve curated 40 mouth-watering pork belly recipes that will leave you craving more. From traditional Chinese-inspired dishes to bold Korean-style creations, these recipes are sure to delight.
36 Easy Pork Belly Recipes
Chinese Roast Pork Belly
A staple in Chinese cooking, this delectable recipe masterfully balances sweet and savory flavors. The tender pork belly is expertly marinated in a blend of five-spice powder, soy sauce, and honey before being roasted to perfection, yielding a satisfying crunch on the outside and a succulent texture within.
Crispy Pork Belly Tacos
Indulge in the savory delight of these flavorful tacos, ideal for a speedy weeknight dinner. The pork belly is meticulously cooked to achieve a satisfying crunch, subsequently sliced into tender strips and nestled between warm tortillas alongside vibrant salsa, creamy guacamole, and your go-to toppings, guaranteeing a meal that’s both nourishing and tantalizing.
Slow Roasted Pork Belly
While slow cooking may not be the most thrilling aspect of a culinary experience, trust that the end result of this recipe will justify the investment of time. By roasting the pork belly at a gentle heat over several hours, you’ll coax out its inherent tenderness and infuse it with deep, unctuous flavors.
Pork Belly Ramen
Indulge in the warmth of this hearty dish, ideal for a relaxing evening at home. The slow-cooked pork belly is infused with rich flavors as it simmers alongside tender noodles and a medley of vegetables. A delicate balance of textures is achieved by finishing it off with soft-boiled eggs and a sprinkle of crisp green onions.
Pan-Fried Pork Belly
Indulge in the delightful harmony of textures and flavors with this effortless weeknight meal. Thinly sliced pork belly is skillfully pan-fried to a golden crisp on the exterior, while remaining luxuriously tender within. Paired with a medley of sautéed vegetables, each bite is a masterclass in contrasts that will leave you craving more.
Sticky Chinese Pork Belly
A mouthwatering Sticky Chinese Pork Belly dish is characterized by slow-cooked pork belly smothered in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce that yields a tender, caramelized texture. This crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course is ideal for both special events and everyday meals, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures to satisfy any palate.
Spicy Korean Pork Belly
Korean cuisine has earned a special place in the hearts of many food enthusiasts, and one popular dish that exemplifies its bold flavors is the mouthwatering pork belly. To create this culinary masterpiece, the pork belly is first marinated in a harmonious blend of spicy and sweet flavors, allowing the rich aromas to meld together in perfect harmony. Once the marinade has done its magic, the pork belly is then grilled or pan-fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat.
BBQ Pork Belly
Savor the taste of a classic summer cookout with a twist – slow-cooked pork belly smothered in a rich, homemade BBQ sauce and finished off with a crispy, caramelized crust achieved through expert grilling techniques.
Pork Belly Bao Buns
Indulge in the delightful combination of tender pork belly, fresh herbs, and tangy pickles nestled within soft, fluffy steamed buns. These bite-sized treats are ideal for a leisurely lunch or satisfying snack, offering a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Taking the classic concept of beef burnt ends to new heights, this creative spin substitutes succulent pork belly for its meaty counterpart. A savory dry rub is applied to the pork belly before it’s slow-cooked to perfection, emerging from the smoker as a delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior.
Honey Sesame Pork Belly
For the adventurous foodies out there, this dish is a game-changer. A pork belly masterpiece is crafted by coating it in a sweet and nutty combination of honey and sesame seeds, followed by a slow-roasting process that yields a satisfying crunch and an explosion of flavors on the palate.
Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly
Indulge in the delightful combination of crunchy textures and rich flavors with honey-glazed pork belly. This dish is a far cry from traditional roast recipes, offering an unparalleled culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Crispy Pork Belly Sandwich
The star of the show is the slow-cooked pork belly, which is transformed from tender to tantalizingly crispy through a careful roasting process. Once perfectly caramelized, it’s expertly sliced and nestled into a soft bun alongside crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and a dollop of spicy mayo that adds an extra layer of complexity and depth to each bite.
Salt and Pepper Pork Belly
Imagine sinking your teeth into a culinary masterpiece that’s nothing short of extraordinary. A harmonious blend of pork, salt, pepper, and a touch of heat (if you dare) creates an unforgettable sensory experience. As the crispy skin crackles with delight, the tender meat practically melts in your mouth, while the uncomplicated flavors come together in perfect harmony. It’s as if the very essence of flavor has gathered for an impromptu celebration on your palate, and you’re the honored guest.
Kale & Pork Belly Salad
This salad defies expectations, offering a bold and unconventional twist on traditional greens. In its place, crispy kale is expertly paired with tender pork belly, whose unctuous texture melts in the mouth. A symphony of flavors unfolds as sweet pomegranate seeds and creamy cheese add depth and richness to the dish. The pièce de résistance is a drizzle of vibrant dressing, which brings every component together in a harmonious explosion of flavor with each bite.
Char Siu Pork Belly
In the realm of Cantonese cuisine, a classic dish that never fails to impress is the delectable pork belly. This mouthwatering treat begins its journey by being marinated in a rich and complex mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and honey. The harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors allows the pork belly to absorb every ounce of goodness, resulting in a tender and juicy final product that’s caramelized to perfection.
Pork Belly Bites
Say goodbye to the hassle of deep-frying pork belly and hello to a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth experience with your trusty air fryer! Simply cube the pork into bite-sized pieces, toss them with your favorite spices, and let the air fryer do its thing. In just 20 minutes, you’ll be indulging in addictive bites that perfectly balance crunch on the outside with juiciness on the inside.
Smoked Pork Belly Strips
Indulge in the unapologetic bliss of tender, succulent smoked pork belly strips. As the rich flavors and crispy texture meld together on your palate, any lingering doubts about the superiority of pork over bacon will surely dissipate.
Pork Belly Sliders
Indulge in the bite-sized bliss of pork belly sliders, where the indulgent richness of succulent pork belly is expertly condensed into delectable little morsels. Each tender piece of melt-in-your-mouth pork belly is beautifully glazed and nestled within soft Hawaiian rolls, making them a perfect choice for both casual gatherings and everyday meals.
Cantonese Roast Pork Belly
Cantonese roast pork belly, or siu yuk, is a gastronomic delight that effortlessly balances contrasting textures – the satisfying crunch of its outer layer and the silky smoothness of its inner meat. This culinary masterpiece requires meticulous attention to detail in its preparation process, typically involving a salt crust and finishing with a broiler for added depth. Whether savored on its own or paired with a rich, sweet, and savory sauce, siu yuk is certain to impress even the most discerning palates.
Pork Belly and Mushroom Rice Bowl
Indulge in the rich flavors of this mouthwatering rice bowl, where tender pork belly and savory mushrooms come together in perfect harmony, all bathed in a sweet and savory soy sauce glaze that will leave you craving for more. This impressive dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring just under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for both weeknight dinner and weekend lunch gatherings.
Pork Belly Tamales
Transform the rich flavor of roasted pork belly into a culinary masterpiece by combining it with traditional masa dough and aromatic sauces. As you carefully wrap each tamale, the harmonious blend of textures and tastes will tantalize your senses. Once steamed to perfection, serve these delightful packages alongside a refreshing dollop of sour cream and a spicy kick from a zesty salsa.
Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps
Indulge in the harmonious union of tender pork belly and crisp lettuce by using slices of the former as a succulent filling within the latter. Elevate this delightful combination by incorporating tangy hoisin sauce, vibrant julienned vegetables, and fragrant herbs, culminating in a refreshing and savory culinary experience.
Pork Belly and Kimchi Ramen
Elevate your ramen experience by combining the savory flavors of roasted pork belly with the bold, spicy kick of kimchi. By simmering these ingredients together in a rich, comforting broth, you’ll create a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Serve it all over steaming hot noodles for a meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Pork Belly and Pineapple Stir-Fry
Indulge in the harmonious marriage of flavors and textures as tender pork belly, juicy pineapple chunks, crunchy bell peppers, and a zesty sauce come together in a delightful stir-fry. This sweet and savory masterpiece can be easily served over fluffy steamed rice, making for a swift and satisfying meal that will leave you craving more.
Pork Belly Tostadas
Transforming a humble tostada into a flavorful fiesta, crispy pork belly slices bring an unparalleled level of excitement to the table. The marriage of rich, savory pork with creamy refried beans, crunchy shredded lettuce, and the pop of diced tomatoes creates a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more. Allow yourself to get lost in the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine by layering these mouthwatering elements for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Pork Belly and Butternut Squash Hash
To create a mouthwatering breakfast or brunch, start by combining roasted pork belly with cubed butternut squash in a pan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pork and squash are golden brown and tender. For an added layer of richness, top the dish with a fried egg and serve immediately.
Pork Belly and Eggplant Stir-Fry
Indulge in the harmonious union of savory stir-fried pork belly, succulent eggplant, and pungent garlic, all bound together by a rich and aromatic sauce. Pair this mouthwatering dish with a steaming hot serving of rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that embodies the bold flavors of Asia.
Pork Belly Bibimbap
Transform your plate into a harmonious fusion of flavors by pairing a comforting bowl of steamed rice with the unctuous richness of crispy pork belly. Add some crunch and color with sautéed vegetables, then top it off with spicy kimchi and a runny fried egg for added depth. To tie everything together, drizzle the dish with a bold and fiery gochujang sauce, infusing your meal with the bold spirit of Korean cuisine.
Pork Belly and Apple Slaw
Indulge in a revitalizing coleslaw recipe that combines the sweetness of sliced apples with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for pairing with tender slices of roasted pork belly to create a harmonious and satisfying meal.
Pork Belly and Grits
Indulge in a cozy culinary experience by harmoniously combining rich and creamy cheese grits with the satisfying crunch of crispy pork belly. Elevate the dish to new heights by drizzling a savory gravy over the top, allowing the bold flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
Pork Belly and Brussels Sprouts Skillet
To elevate the flavors of both roast pork belly and Brussels sprouts, cook them together in a skillet until they’re nicely caramelized and tender. As you cook, season the mixture with an array of herbs and spices to create a rich and savory side dish that’s sure to please.
Pork Belly Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform humble mushroom caps into decadent treats by hollowing them out and filling the cavities with a savory blend of roasted pork belly, breadcrumbs, and fragrant herbs. As they emerge from the oven, the tender fungi will be perfectly complemented by the golden-brown filling, creating a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.
Pork Belly and Cabbage Soup
Transform tender pork belly into a rich and satisfying soup by slow-cooking it with an assortment of aromatic vegetables, including crunchy cabbage and sweet carrots, in a flavorful broth. Complete the experience with a side of warm, crusty bread for a cozy and nourishing meal.
Pork Belly Lettuce Cups
Indulge in the harmonious union of crispy pork belly and crunchy fresh lettuce cups, paired with an assortment of colorful vegetables such as shredded carrots and thinly sliced cucumbers. Elevate this delightful combination by adding a drizzle of savory hoisin sauce, resulting in a refreshing and nutritious dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Pork Belly Banh Mi
Transform your sandwich game with a harmonious blend of crispy pork belly, tangy pickled vegetables, fragrant cilantro, and spicy sriracha mayo on a crusty baguette. The symphony of flavors and textures will leave you craving more.
In conclusion, despite its intimidating appearance, pork belly is surprisingly easy to cook and remarkably versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Chinese flavors or bold Korean spices, there’s a pork belly recipe out there that will tantalize your taste buds. This succulent cut of meat lends itself beautifully to a range of dishes, from tacos and sliders to curries and beyond. So, next time you’re at the market, consider adding pork belly to your shopping list and unlocking a world of culinary possibilities.